FIRST FLOAT FOR TOURNAMENT OF ROSES PARADE IN PASADENA UNVEILED

[Yervant1]

Second American Armenian Rose Float `Discover Armenia' is Unveiled

by MassisPost August 1, 2015, 7:43 pm


PASADENA ' The second Armenian Rose Float Design titled `Discover
Armenia' that will be participating in the 127th Rose Parade on
January 1st, 2016 was unveiled on August 1.

This year's Tournament of Roses theme being `Find Your Adventure', the
second Armenia float is designed to encourage tourism and the audience
of the world to `Discover Armenia'.

The Elements on the Armenian Rose Float are: Erebuni Sphinx Urartu
Civilization, Zvartnots Cathedral, Hin Jugha Khachkar Cemetary, Garni
Gorge, Temple of Garni, Gavazan Swinging Column, Tatev Monastery,
Yerevan Cascade Fountain, Sardarpat Memorial, Mother Armenia, Erebuni
Urartian Sphinx, Tsiternakaberd Memorial, We are the Mountains
Monument, Hin Jugha Ram Tombstone, Jermuk Waterfalls, Ughtasar
Petroglyphs Rock Carvings and Armenian Breed Dog `Gamper'.

On January 1, 2015, a global audience in 115 countries watched in awe
as the first-ever Armenian Rose Float paraded in the Pasadena
Tournament of Roses. Conceived by the nonprofit American Armenian Rose
Float Association (AARFA), the Armenian-float project was made
possible by the enthusiastic support of the Armenian community.
Without their generosity, it would not have been possible for the
float to exist and achieve the recognition it deserved, winning the
Presidential Award for `most effective floral use & presentations' as
first time participants of the Tournament of Roses Parade.

The first Armenian float in history not only brought a unique flair to
the Tournament of Roses, but promoted Armenian culture and identity in
USA and across the world. It's success, which has inspired generations
of Armenians with a renewed sense of cultural pride, prompted the
AARFA at once to plan the next Armenian float.


www.aarfa.org/fundraising/

http://massispost.com/2015/08/second-american-armenian-rose-float-discover-armenia-is-unveiled/

[Yervant1]

$115,000 RAISED FOR CONSTRUCTION AND PARTICIPATION OF SECOND ARMENIAN ROSE FLOAT IN PASADENA TOURNAMENT OF ROSES

You can Donate at www.aarfa.org/donations/

The theme of the float will be "Discover Armenia"

Los Angeles, December 9, 2015 - During a fundraising dinner on the
night of December 6, the American Armenian Rose Float Association
(AARFA) raised $115,000 toward the construction of the second Armenian
rose float and its participation in the 127th Pasadena Tournament of
Roses, which will be held on January 1, 2016.

Close to 150 supporters attended the fundraising event, which was
held at the Phoenix Decorating Company, in Pasadena. Throughout the
evening, guests had the opportunity to take a first-hand look at
the newest Armenian rose float, which is kept and being worked on
inside the Rose Palace of the Phoenix Decorating Company. To date,
the construction of the framework and architectural components of
the float have been completed. The dry decoration of the float will
be implemented in the next few weeks, and the culminating flower
decorations will be carried out during the five days leading up to
the Pasadena Tournament of Roses.

As he delivered his welcome remarks, the evening's Master of
Ceremonies, Glendale City Clerk Ardashes Kassakhian, underscored
the importance of broad grassroots support for the realization of
a large-scale project such as the Armenian rose float. "Last year,
the first-ever Armenian rose float was made possible by grassroots
contributions while some 600 community volunteers worked tirelessly on
the actual assembly of the float," he said. "The level of enthusiasm
among our community is even greater today, and we can't thank our
volunteers enough for contributing their talents, time, and energy
to this wonderful project."

The first Armenian rose float, which carried the theme "Cradle of
Civilization," went on to earn the Pasadena Tournament of Roses'
prestigious President's Award for "most effective floral use and
presentation."

"On New Year's Day, 2015, as the first Armenian rose float in history
rolled down Colorado Boulevard, it promoted Armenian culture and
identity in Los Angeles and across the world," AARFA President Stepan
Partamian said as he addressed the guests. "The float was seen by
about 700,000 spectators in Pasadena and a global audience of 1.5
billion in 115 countries. The forthcoming Tournament of Roses will be
seen by an even greater number of people. I can't imagine a better or
more cost-effective conduit for familiarizing the world with Armenian
civilization. Think about it: as a community, we'll be spending a mere
$300,000 on the second Armenian rose float, yet achieve the type of
global exposure that would require millions of dollars."

Partamian said that since the theme of the upcoming Tournament of Roses
is "Find your Adventure," the newest Armenian rose float will be called
"Discover Armenia." Accordingly, Partamian said, the design of the
float will encompass major Armenian landmarks as well as references
to Armenian history -- including the Sardarapat and Tsitsernakaberd
memorials, the Tatev Monastery, Artsakh's "We Are Our Mountains"
monument, the Ughtasar Petroglyphs, the khachkar cemetery of Old
Jugha, and the Urartian Sphinx, among others. Both the first and
the newest Armenian rose floats were designed by AARFA Board member
Johnny Kanounji.

"By depicting the beauty and millennia-old culture of Armenia and
Artsakh, the Armenian rose float will also help promote tourism in
our homeland," Partamian explained, and went on to announce the names
of some of the celebrities who will ride on the upcoming Armenian
rose float. They include Sona Movsesian, who was instrumental in
encouraging Conan O'Brien to film a recent show in Armenia; KTLA
reporter Ellina Abovian; and KTTV Channel 11 anchor Araksya Karapetyan.

In the course of his remarks, Partamian announced a string of donations
that were made by guests. They included Antranig Baghdassarian of
Karoun Dairies, a major benefactor of the first Armenian rose float
who once again contributed $50,000; and Dr. Albert Karamanoukian,
Mark and Paulette Geragos, Flora Dunaians, and an anoymous donor,
each of whom contributed $10,000.

"This evening, like the work of the AARFA as a whole, represents the
concept of 'minimum expense and maximum return,'" Partamian said.

"Thanks to in-kind donations, including the provision of this banquet
space by the Phoenix Decorating Company, we were able to organize this
event by spending only $15,000, and have already raised $115,000, which
will helps us significantly to cover the costs of the construction
of the Armenian rose float and its participation in the Pasadena
Tournament of Roses."

"I would also like to stress the importance of having repeat donors,"
Partamian continued. "There's a very good reason that benefactors
such as Mr. Baghdassarian are once again supporting the Armenian rose
float initiative: they see enormous value in a project that inspires
and mobilizes the entire Armenian community while promoting Armenian
identity and culture on an international scale."

This year, the AARFA has launched the Armenian Rose Float Ambassador
Program, whereby volunteers can become city-specific ambassadors
of the rose float to raise at least $3,000 from their respective
communities. During the December 6 event, Partamian recognized the
dedication and work of six ambassadors by presenting them with the
first-ever AARFA Ambassadorship pins. The honored ambassadors were
Garbis Der-Yeghiayan (representing La Verne, California), Carmen
Libaridian (Hollywood Hills, California), Flora Dunaians (Pasadena,
California - south of 210 Freeway), Margaret Mgrubian (Pasadena,
California - north of 210 Freeway), Tony Melconian (La Crescenta,
California), and Hratch Kozibeyokian (Shadow Hills, California).

Currently the AARFA is seeking to enlist additional ambassadors to
represent cities across the US. Those who are interested can email
the association at info@aarfa.org.

To date, the AARFA has raised $180,000 of the $300,000 needed for the
construction of the second Armenian rose float and its participation
in the Pasadena Tournament of Roses. The AARFA, whose sole mission is
to raise funds to be spent annually on the Armenian float, continues
to accept donations and is seeking corporate sponsors to help fund the
project. Tax-deductible contributions can be made securely through the
AARFA site (at aarfa.org) or by mailing a check to: AARFA, P. O. Box
60005, Pasadena, CA 91116.

2016 DISCOVER ARMENIA ROSE FLOAT RIDERS

Ellina Abovian

An Emmy Award nominated Journalist and News Reporter for KTLA 5 news.

Ellina grew up in Glendale California where most of her friends and
family still reside.

In 2011, she left Los Angeles to pursue her dream of working in news.

After graduating from Cal State University with a degree in Broadcast
Journalism, she made her first move to San Luis Obispo to work for
the local NBC affiliate station.

Due to her hard work and determination, Abovian moved up the news
market ranks quickly; from San Luis Obispo to Fresno to San Diego.

In the summer of 2015, Abovian was offered the opportunity to join
the KTLA 5 news team full time as a staff reporter.

She currently resides in Toluca Lake with her husband.

Araksya Karapetyan

Araksya anchors weekdays on Good Day LA, the FOX 11 10 a.m. news and
the noon news.

A native of Armenia, Karapetyan moved to the U.S. when she was
seven years old. A devastating earthquake, a brewing conflict with
Azerbaijan, and the demise of the Soviet Union all contributed to
her family's decision to leave their homeland.

â~@¨She grew up in Palos Verdes Estates and returns to Los Angeles
from KOIN-TV in Portland, OR, where she served as a general assignment
reporter and fill-in host for the past two years. Prior to that, she
was a reporter/anchor/producer at KIDK-TV in Idaho Falls, ID. Earlier
in her career, Karapetyan held various news positions in California,
such as reporter for government access cable television channel,
Torrance CitiCABLE 3 in Torrance, CA. Karapetyan began her television
career as an intern at KABC-TV in Los Angeles and KFI 640 AM radio
in Burbank, CA.

Araksya's interest in journalism sparked when she went back for a
summer visit to Armenia. She decided to spend her time there not
by being a tourist, but by actually exploring to see what everyday
life was like for the majority. So she grabbed a camcorder and
hit the streets. She interviewed people and visited places such as
orphanages, psychiatric wards, schools, and homes for the elderly
to fully understand the issues the newly democratic country was
facing. Her excitement for telling stories was in full bloom by the
time her visit was over.

Araksya holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in International Relations
and Broadcast Journalism from Syracuse University's S.I. Newhouse
School of Public Communications.

"The best part about my job is how everyday is different. I love
working with all kinds of people and learning something new every
single day. I can honestly say I walk away more enlightened at the
end of the day. It's that ability to grow that makes this job one of
a kind."

Sona Movsesian

Born into a close-knit Armenian community in Montebello, CA and is a
proud Angeleno. She graduated from USC with a degree in communication
and immediately went on to work for NBC in their highly competitive
and celebrated Page Program. Shortly after starting as a Page,
Movsesian took a permanent position in the publicity department as
the events and operations coordinator, working on events for such
NBC hits as The Office, Heroes andFriday Night Lights. She then
set her sights on working in production and eventually landed the
current position she has now as the executive assistant for Conan
O'Brien. Movsesian worked with O'Brien on The TonightShow with Conan
O'Brien and once his tenure as host ended, she accompanied him on the
"Legally Prohibited from Being on Television Tour" and traveled to
over 30 cities in North America. She still works for O'Brien and the
two of them recently visited Armenia and filmed their adventures for
a special that aired on TBS for O'Brien's talk show Conan.

[MosJan]

its a great site to see greater atmosphere to be in

 

il get some pics for you all soon..
till then this was for 2015 year

[MosJan]

 

[MosJan]

 

[MosJan]

[MosJan]

Truly amazing how everything comes together.. Thank You !!! Vartsqernid Katar !!!

 

 

[MosJan]

Thank You !!! Vartsqernid Katar !!!

[MosJan]

https://www.facebook.com/AARFAinc/videos/968115593263536/

[MosJan]

http://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/66IAAOSwSHZWgYqG/s-l1600.jpg

 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/281896023357?_trksid=p2055359.m1431.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

 

BID and WIN This--Benefit Auction: Dated -1944- Authentic Armenian Antique Rug.
An authentic example of Armenian hand woven folk art

 

Benefit Auction: Dated -1944- Authentic Armenian hand woven Antique Carpet.

Hratch Kozibeyokian and Mira Assadourian are proudly donating this historical carpet from their private collection to grant the 2016 American Armenian Rose Float.

100 % of the proceeds from the auction will be donated to AARFA for the realization of the 2016 American Armenian Rose Float “DISCOVER ARMENIA”.

This float belongs to every Armenian in the United States and around the world.

The Carpet—An authentic example of Armenian folk art, reflection of Armenian cultural heritage.

Size: 4’.8” X 9’.8”

Origin: Artsakh, Armenia, dated “1944”.

Design: 5-medallions depicting Ancient pre Christian Armenian symbols with flanking birds. All Original condition, matured natural colors and signs of use and wears.

Final successful bidder will receive a “Certificate of Authenticity” and it will be recorded in the database of Armenian Rugs Society’s database. www.armenianrugssociety.com

It is the AARFA’s (American Armenian Rose Float Association) hope that the World Armenian communities support this float and help share “Discover Armenia” as a touristic adventure.

AARFA is also looking for corporate, media and individual sponsors who wish to

support this project. Keep up with the latest information by visiting aarfa.org.

Discover Armenia float photos gallery: http://www.aarfa.org/gallery/

 

“DISCOVER ARMENIA” The American Armenian Rose Float video preview:

 

Contribute , Become a sponsor, Volunteer - Make a difference!: http://www.aarfa.org/fundraising/

Thank you for your contribution and Happy New Year. PEACE ON EARTH

[MosJan]

just don't outbid me

 

i have seen the RuG in person :ap; have inspected and love it so don't outbid me Please

[Yervant1]

American Armenian Rose Float Association

Posted 2:03 PM, December 22, 2016, by KTLA 5, Updated at 02:02PM, December 22, 2016

Dimensions: 24’H x 18’W x 55’L

Float Title: Field of Dreams!

Float Theme

Featuring three children atop a majestic Artsakh (Karabagh) stallion in the foreground descending from historic Mt. Ararat in the background where Noah’s Arc came to rest. Mt. Ararat has long stood as a spiritual symbol of faith for people around the world. Also growing out from the soil of this snow-capped mountain, a pomegranate tree with a peacock, a symbol of good fortune and fertility for Armenians around the world. The children atop the stallion wearing traditional Armenian garments hold symbols representing literature, music and science, paying tribute to fields in which this historic and ancient people have contributed to the collective human experience. This years uplifting theme “Echoes of Success” is represented in this positive portrayal paying homage to accomplishments of Armenians in the fields of music, literature and science.

Flowers/Materials used

Field of Dreams coverage: Artsakh Stallion, head of brown coffee, green fine ground split pea, crème farina, black onion powder, ground cinnamon, orange fine ground lentil, tan fine walnut shells, mane of brown coffee, crème soy and black beans, inside nostrils of brown coffee, white powdered rice, eyes of white powdered rice, black onion powder, dark red ground cinnamon, green fine ground split pea, brown coffee, pupils of black seaweed, eyelids of black onion powder, bronze fine cut strawflower, lashes of seaweed, area around eyes-black onion powder, inside ears of black onion seed, hi-lites of creme farina, around mouth-black onion powder, dark grey ground cinnamon, brown coffee, tan fine walnut shell, under chin-black onion powder, body of brown coffee, orange fine ground lentil, reddish brown ground cinnamon, tan fine walnut shell, creme farina, green fine ground split pea, stars of white fuzzy cut everlasting, light green fine ground split pea, lower legs black onion powder, light green fine ground split pea, crème farina, hooves of black seaweed. Blanket of faces of black beans, sides of black ground onion seed, designs of white, yellow and xmas red button mums, blue fine cut statice, orange peach fine ground lentil, green fine ground split pea, black onion powder. Top design-black onion powder, red large kidney beans, yellow and green whole split peas, blue fine cut statice. Children riding horse-faces of crème and dark creme farina, white powdered rice, eyebrows of onion powder and dark pink fine cut strawflower, nose shadows of dark pink fine cut strawflower, mouth of dark pink fine cut strawflower, white powdered rice and black onion powder, eyelids of dark pink fine cut strawflower, creme farina and black onion powder, eyelashes of light blue and dark blue fine cut statice, pupils of black seaweed, white powdered rice, light green fine ground split pea and dark green fine ground parsley, black onion powder, crème farina, hands of dark crème farina. Front Girl-black onion seed and gold clover seed, fronts of black onion powder, all small dots, crème soy beans, red cranberries, yellow and green whole split peas, orange and brown whole lentils, small circles of black onion powder, medium/brown ovals, brown whole lentils, black beans, reddish/brown pinto beans and white navy beans, crème soys beans and black beans, hair of black seaweed, flower accents of light pink dendrob blooms, shirt stripes of kermit green and wine mums, black onion seed, elfin pink mums, light lavender mums, dark lavender mums, black onion seed. Middle Child-black seaweed, onion powder, small kidney dots, black beans, fine ground black beans and fine ground rice, dots of blue statice, yellow strawflower, wine mums, onion powder. Shirt-mums-light beau, light lavender wine mums, blue fine cut statice-Jacket Squares of yellow button mums. Sleeves of light lavender, wine, kermit green, elfin pink, dark lavender mums, black onion seed and trim of black beans. Last Child-hair and hat of black seaweed, design of black beans, light beau mums, navy beans, white button mums, ground onion seed, white button mums, whole orange lentils, light beau mums, blue statice, light beau mums, white button mums, blue fine cut statice. Sculpted Flowers: wine mums, black beans, pink carnation petals, red fine cut strawflower, dark wine fine cut strawflower, pink carnation petals. Colorful Accents: yellow whole split peas, orange whole lentils, light pink fine cut strawflower, blue fine cut statice, red small kidney beans, backs of white fine ground rice, red fine cut strawflower, green ground parsley flakes. Sculpted Flowers, centers of wine mums, black beans, , petals of gold flax/clover seed, orange fine cut lentil, white large lima beans, backs of white fine ground rice and green ground parsley seed. Big Flowers-centers of gold mums, dark beau mums, petals of white fine cut everlasting, pink fine cut strawflower, light lavender mums, backs of white fine ground rice and green ground parsley. Small Daisies-centers of gold and dark beau mums, petals of white fine cut everlasting, light lavender mums, fine cut pink strawflower, backs of white fine ground rice and green ground parsley. Birds: beaks of yellow fine cut strawflower and orange fine ground lentil, black onion seed, eyes of black onion powder, white powdered rice and blue fine cut statice, around eyes-yellow whole split peas, orange whole lentils, main boday of black onion powder, dark blue and light blue fine cut statice, orange fine ground lentil, yellow fine ground split pea, legs of black onion powder, dots of yellow whole split pea, orange whole lentils, dark blue and light blue fine cut statice, light pink, red, dark pink and bronze fine cut strawflower. Fancy Tails-black onion powder, circles of black beans and black onion seed. Peacock on horses tail-top crown of red fine cut strawflower and blue fine cut statice, beak of red fine cut strawflower, eyes of blue fine cut statice, and white powdered rice, chest and butt of black seaweed, black onion powder, big dots of soy beans and orange whole lentils, small dots of crème soy beans, rd fine cut strawflower and orange lentils, legs of black onion powder. Tail-background of light orange fine ground lentil, dark orange ground lentil, designs of green and yellow whole split pea, black beans. Peacock, eyes of black onion powder, white powdered rice, around eyes-white powdered rice, beak of yellow fine cut strawflower, body of blue, light blue and purple fine cut statice, wings of yellow, orange carnation petals and black beans, trim of black ground onion seed, tail of green ground parsley flakes, black beans, green whole split peas and dark green mung beans and green ground parsley flakes. Tree of Life-trunk of brown coffee, leaves of green ground parsley, fruit of dark red ground cinnamon, white powdered rice. Houses-chimney’s of black onion pow der, window frames, faces and edges of white navy petals and white fine ground rice, inside windows of yellow fine cut strawflower and orange fine ground lentils. Front houses of dry/natural bac bac, Christmas/cranberry beans, walls of natural dry cinnamon sticks, roofs of eucalyptus leaves, 1/4 inch rope, dry cinnamon sticks and white pumpkin seeds. Rear Houses of roofs with natural dry bac bac, crème corn husk, natural dry moneta fruit pods, corn husk, 1/4 inch rope, walls of cinnamon sticks, wheat triticum. Mountains-white roses, white gyp, green springer, light blue iris, lavender cats, light blue hybrid double stock, light blue and dark blue hybrid delphiniums, dark lavender roses. Floral Gardens-deep red roses, red gerberas, grey spanish moss and medium pomegranates, red ti leaves, peach roses and acapulco gerberas, orange roses, grey Spanish moss, green monstera leaves, green lotus pods, green cymbidiums, small sunflowers, red roses, white roses, white cats, white iris, yellow gerberas, spanish grey moss and medium artichokes.

All text and information courtesy Pasadena Tournament of Roses.

http://ktla.com/2016/12/22/american-armenian-rose-float-association-2/

[Yervant1]

American Armenian Rose Float Association’s “Field Of Dreams!” Wins Past Presidents Trophy

January 2, 2017

PASADENA — The Pasadena Tournament of Roses has announced the winning float entries that participate in the 128th Rose Parade presented by Honda, themed “Echoes of Success,” and the American Armenian Rose Float Association’s entry “Field Of Dreams!” has won Past Presidents Trophy for most creative design and use of both floral and non-floral materials.

The 2017 Pasadena Tournament of Roses theme, “Echoes of Success,” tells the story of how our character has developed through the selfless contributions of others and celebrates their inspirational gifts. It is a celebration for those people, institutions and organizations that help in the success of others.

Featuring three children atop a majestic Artsakh (Karabakh) stallion in the foreground descending from historic Mt. Ararat in the background where Noah’s Arc came to rest. Mt. Ararat has long stood as a spiritual symbol of faith for people around the world. Also growing out from the soil of this snow-capped mountain, a pomegranate tree with a peacock, a symbol of good fortune and fertility for Armenians around the world. The children atop the stallion wearing traditional Armenian garments hold symbols representing literature, music and science, paying tribute to fields in which this historic and ancient people have contributed to the collective human experience. This years uplifting theme “Echoes of Success” is represented in this positive portrayal paying homage to accomplishments of Armenians in the fields of music, literature and science.

https://youtu.be/GUx7qJQlLRM

https://massispost.com/2017/01/american-armenian-rose-float-associations-field-dreams-wins-past-presidents-trophy/

 

 

[Yervant1]

American Armenian Rose Float Association Accepted into 128th Tournament of Roses Parade

http://www.aarfa.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/2018-Armenian-Rose-Float-Design-low-resolution-300x209.jpgThe American Armenian Rose Float Association (AARFA) has released the design for the next Armenian rose float, which will take part in the 129th Pasadena Tournament of Roses, on January 1, 2018. This will be the Armenian rose float’s fourth consecutive participation in the world-renowned tournament.

Carrying the theme “Armenian Roots,” the new Armenian rose float will be dedicated to Armenian mothers, daughters, sisters, and grandmothers, as individuals who are the foundation of acts of kindness that enrich the lives of others; who are a source of inspiration, hope, joy, and optimism; and whose unconditional love contributes to the greatness of their communities and nation.

The theme of the Armenian rose float echoes the general theme of the 129th Pasadena Tournament of Roses, which “Making a Difference.” As described by Lance Tibbet, president of the 2017-2018 Tournament of Roses, “ The ‘Making a Difference’ theme is a way to honor and celebrate all of the people in our communities who, quietly and without desire for reward or recognition, act in selfless, generous, and kind ways to aid or benefit others.”

The design of the new Armenian rose float was conceived by AARFA Board member Johnny Kanounji. The centerpiece consists of the bust of a young woman dressed in traditional Armenian garments and headgear and tending a young pomegranate tree. The elements in the back and front of the imposing centerpiece comprise a colorful pastiche of Armenian motifs, including Armenian carpets and pomegranates. While some of the patterns of the carpets are nods to ancient Armenian architecture and heraldry, their background colors are also rich in symbology. The green, for instance, symbolizes hope, renewal, life, and spring; and red symbolizes beauty, wealth, courage, joy, and faith.

The first Armenian rose float, which carried the theme “Cradle of Civilization,” went on to earn the Pasadena Tournament of Roses’ prestigious President’s Award for “most effective floral use and presentation.” “On New Year’s Day, 2015, as the first Armenian rose float in history rolled down Colorado Boulevard, it promoted Armenian culture and identity in Los Angeles and across the world,” AARFA President Stepan Partamian said as he addressed the guests.

The second Armenian rose float road on January 1, 2016, the theme, “Find your Adventure,” called “Discover Armenia” encompassed major Armenian landmarks as well as references to Armenian history — including the Sardarapat and Tsitsernakaberd memorials, the Tatev Monastery, Artsakh’s “We Are Our Mountains” monument, the Ughtasar Petroglyphs, the khachkar cemetery of Old Jugha, and the Urartian Sphinx, among others. Both the first and the newest Armenian rose floats were designed by AARFA Board member Johnny Kanounji, depicting the beauty and millennia-old culture of Armenia and Artsakh, the Armenian rose float will also help promote tourism in our homeland.

On January 2, 2017, AARFA showcased “Echoes of Success” down Colorado Blvd. and again within three years won its second trophy, Past President’s Trophy for Best Design and Best use of Floral and Non-Floral Design, platforming the American Armenian diaspora success story. It was an honor to share Armenia as a success story in the world during the 2017 Rose Parade. This float belongs to every Armenian in the United States and around the world. One hundred years ago, the Tournament of Roses chose Mr. Pashgian, an American Armenian, as the Grand Marshall, and now, the American Armenian community will again be represented with a float for the fourth year in a row.

On New Year’s Day, 2018, the Pasadena Tournament of Roses will be seen by about 700,000 spectators in Pasadena and a global audience in 245 countries and territories.

As in previous years, some 600 community volunteers will work on the floral assembly of the 2018 Armenian rose float. Given the considerable cost of materials and construction of the float, the AARFA is appealing for generous grassroots community support.

[MosJan]

it lovely great looking as allays

[Yervant1]

Los Angeles Times, CA
Jan 1 2017

American Armenian float takes home Judges Award at Rose Parade

Raul Roa /

The American Armenian Rose Float Assn. participated in the 129th annual Pasadena Tournament of Roses Rose Parade and won the Judges Award with its entry titled Armenian Roots in Pasadena on Monday.

Anthony Clark Carpio Contact Reporter

Three local entrants in the 2018 Rose Parade walked away with awards for their floats during the chilly annual New Year’s Day parade.

The Burbank Tournament of Roses Assn., the La Cañada Flintridge Tournament of Roses Assn. and the American Armenian Rose Float Assn. received awards for their impressive floats, which impressed the thousands of parade-goers on Monday.

The American Armenian Rose Float Assn.’s entry, titled “Armenia Roots,” received the Judges Award.

The entry is a tribute to Armenian women, whether they be a mother, daughter, grandmother or aunt, who work tirelessly to be the foundation of their family, said Noubar Derbedrosian, a board member of the association.

“There is no one like the women in our lives — our moms, our sisters, our wives — that will give of themselves without ask for anything in return,” he said.

Derbedrosian added that this is the third award the association has received out of the four float entries the organization has submitted. Last year, the group was given the Past President Award for its float titled “Field of Dreams!” in which the entry represented the American-Armenia experience in literature, music and science.

“This is an honor for us,” he said. “We’re a small group of people that do this, and we’re trying to represent all of the Armenian people, not just in Glendale, Pasadena or the L.A. area.”

After not receiving an award for its float “Home Tweet Home” last year, the Burbank association bounced back and was given the Founder Award for its nautical-themed float “Sand-Sational Helpers,” in which sea animals team up to clean a beach, coinciding with this year’s Rose Parade theme, “Making a Difference.”

Steve Edward, the Burbank association’s vice president, said that most of the pieces fell in the right place this year. The jump start on construction and decoration week going off without a hitch, he said, resulted in a solid float this year.

“Everyone pulled together and got this thing finished,” Edward said before the start of the parade. “We got it decorated very well, and it looks great. And it’s always a big break to have [an award] banner in front of our float.”

Though the float came together smoothly, there were some mechanical issues with its animation components.

Jon Reeves, a longtime volunteer with the Burbank association and former construction chair, said the wave mechanism that was created on the side of the float ended up not functioning the way it was designed.

Additionally, an arm of the octopus that was supposed to move up and down stopped working during the judging period over the weekend and was not functional for the parade.

“It’s unfortunate that our two big camera-side animations are not working, but the float turned out great and looks fantastic,” Reeves said.

Edward added that he is particularly proud of 14-year-old Catherine Glandon, the eight-year volunteer whose design was chosen to be this year’s float.

“Now we have to add a new title to her name — she’s now an award-winning float designer,” Edward said.

The La Cañada Flintridge Tournament of Roses Assn.’s float, titled “Panda-Monium,”was given the Bob Hope Humor Award.

It is the second year in a row the association has received that particular award, which is no surprise to longtime volunteer Dwight Crumb, who said that the group’s bylaws state that the float must be humorous.

Crumb added that Monday’s award marks the 30th time out of 40 entries that the association has been recognized by the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Assn.

“So we have a 75% [award] banner record,” he said. “I think that’s a darn-good record.”

Of the six self-built floats in the Rose Parade, five of them, which includes Burbank and La Cañada, walked away with an award this year.

Crumb said seeing the self-built floats being recognized each year is a testament to the hard work and dedication that the thousands of volunteers put into their floats.

“Self-built [floats] are the heart of the parade,” he said.

http://www.latimes.com/socal/burbank-leader/news/tn-gnp-me-american-armenian-float-20180101-story.html

[Yervant1]

Public Radio of Armenia

Dec 10 2018

American Armenian Rose Float Association gears up for 2019 Pasadena tournament of roses

2018-12-10 18:39:22

The American Armenian Rose Float Association (AARFA) has released the design for the next Armenian Rose Parade float, which will take part in the 130th Pasadena Tournament of Roses, on January 1, 2019. This will be the Armenian rose float’s fifth consecutive participation in the world-renowned tournament, Pasadena Now reports.

Carrying the theme “Chanting Stones: Karahunj,” the new Armenian rose float celebrates the greatness of Armenian culture, echoing the general theme of the 130th Pasadena Tournament of Roses, which is “The Melody of Life.”

The design of the Armenian rose float was inspired by the stones of Karahunj, a prehistoric monument consisting of a formation of megaliths, in Armenia’s Syunik Province, and often referred to as “the Armenian Stonehenge.” “Karahunj,” which means “speaking stones” or “chanting stones,” refers to the fact that on windy days, the massive standing stones of Karahunj make a distinctive whistling sound. Karahunj predates Stonehenge by 3,500 years.

In keeping with the musical theme of the 2019 Tournament of Roses, the newest Armenian float features a dynamic, exuberant design, with several Armenian musical and cultural references. The central element consists of a duo of dancers performing the yarkhushta, a beloved Armenian folk dance. The two dancing figures were taken from a painting by the acclaimed artist Meruzhan Khachatryan. The dancers are seen performing atop a formation of rocks adorned with khazes, the uniquely Armenian notes representing the ancient Armenian system of musical notation. The inclusion of the khazes here is particularly significant as it honors the 150th anniversary of the birth of Komitas, the renowned musicologist who was devoted to the decipherment of the khaz system.

Other elements of the float’s design include a scattering of apricot trees (the Latin name of the apricot, prunus armeniaca, means “Armenian plum”); as well as a duduk player and three Armenian mouflons, an endangered subspecies of wild sheep.

The design of the new Armenian rose float was conceived by AARFA Board member Johnny Kanounji.

On New Year’s Day, 2019, the Pasadena Tournament of Roses will be seen by about 700,000 spectators in Pasadena and a global audience in 145 countries and territories.

http://www.armradio.am/en/2176

[Yervant1]

Asbarez.com

Armenian-Themed Float Once Again Part of the Tournament of Roses Parade

http://asbarez.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/49261945_2393294754078939_641061673230139392_n.jpg

Carrying the theme “Chanting Stones: Karahunj,” the Armenian rose float celebrated the greatness of Armenian culture

New Year’s Day has become synonymous with the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade that is broadcast live nationally. For the fifth consecutive year, the Armenian American Rose Float Association took part in what was the 130th iteration of the Rose Parade.

Carrying the theme “Chanting Stones: Karahunj,” the Armenian rose float celebrated the greatness of Armenian culture, echoing the general theme of the 130th Pasadena Tournament of Roses, which was “The Melody of Life.”

The design of the Armenian rose float was inspired by the stones of Karahunj, a prehistoric monument consisting of a formation of megaliths, in Armenia’s Syunik Province, and often referred to as “the Armenian Stonehenge.” “Karahunj,” which means “speaking stones” or “chanting stones,” refers to the fact that on windy days, the massive standing stones of Karahunj make a distinctive whistling sound. Karahunj predates Stonehenge by 3,500 years.

In keeping with the musical theme of the 2019 Tournament of Roses, the Armenian float featured a dynamic, exuberant design, with several Armenian musical and cultural references. The central element consisted of a duo of dancers performing the yarkhushta, a beloved Armenian folk dance. The two dancing figures were taken from a painting by the acclaimed artist Meruzhan Khachatryan. The dancers are seen performing atop a formation of rocks adorned with khazes, the uniquely Armenian notes representing the ancient Armenian system of musical notation. The inclusion of the khazes here is particularly significant as it honors the 150th anniversary of the birth of Komitas, the renowned musicologist who was devoted to the decipherment of the khaz system.

Other elements of the float’s design included a scattering of apricot trees (the Latin name of the apricot, prunus armeniaca, means “Armenian plum”), as well as a duduk player and three Armenian mouflons, an endangered subspecies of wild sheep.

The float was surrounded by dancers wearing traditional Armenian costumes who accompanied the float on the parade route.

Last year the Armenia float won the organization’s “Judges Award” for “the most outstanding float design and dramatic impact.” In 2017, the Armenian float won the “Past President’s Trophy” for the most creative design and use of floral and non-floral elements.

Near the end of the parade, the Chinese American Heritage Foundation’s float caught fire and threw the order of performances in disarray, with some people leaving the parade before it was over. Despite the confusion, however, the parade regained its momentum.

 

 

http://asbarez.com/177037/armenian-themed-float-once-again-part-of-the-tournament-of-roses-parade/?fbclid=IwAR26u9EAxP7_8OXH0g-WiTPqWAP8BIEvhjhwbQdjYlkvGkbj9ExoSPa6LDU

[MosJan]

Early morning... getting ready... Respect to organizers and volunteers🇦🇲✌🙏 Jannnn
#roseparade #armenianfloat #yarxushta #volunteers

[MosJan]

[MosJan]

[MosJan]

Jannnn ✌ Respect to organizers and volunteers✌ Jannnn
#roseparade #armenianfloat #yarxushta #volunteers

[Yervant1]

Asbarez.com

Armenian Float Wins ‘Grand Marshal’ Award at 135th Rose Parade

by Asbarez Staff

January 2, 2024

in Community, Featured Main, Latest, News, Top Stories

Members of the American Armenian Rose Float Association and performers from Lilia Margaryan Dance Studio pictured with the “Armenian Melodies” float

 

The American Armenian Rose Float Association’s 2024 float entry, “Armenian Melodies,” won the “Grand Marshal” award for Most Outstanding Creative Concept and Float Design at the 135^th Tournament of Roses.

This year marked the 6^th anniversary of the American Armenian Rose Float Association’s participation in the iconic parade.

Inspired by the strength of Armenian matriarchs throughout history, “Armenian Melodies” featured dynamic Armenian mother and daughter figures dressed in vibrant, traditional garb —“taraz” — surrounded by important symbols within Armenian heritage and culture. Tying in perfectly with the 135th Tournament of Roses theme of “Celebrating a World of Music,” “Armenian Melodies” showcased several musical instruments endemic to Armenia.

The “Armenian Melodies” float captured the heroism of Armenian mothers as exemplars of determination, resilience and fortitude in the face of centuries of upheaval. The float was a reminder that, through their steadfast support, Armenian mothers inspire their families and communities to persevere, even through turbulent times.

The float featured Armenian birds that are indigenous to the Armenian Highlands, including the crane, chukar and little ringed plover. Traditional wind and percussion instruments native to Armenia were also on display. Instruments included on the float were: the duduk, shvi, blul, parkapzuk, as well as the dhol and nagara.

Other objects symbolic to Armenian culture, made entirely of flowers, were also on display on the “Armenian Melodies” float, including the AARFA’s tricolor logo, pomegranates, apricots, and an “arevakhatch” or sun cross, which symbolizes eternal life.

Lilia Margaryan Dance Studio, based in Glendale, also took part n the 135^th Tournament of Roses. A total of 10 students performed alongside the American Armenian float throughout the parade’s 6.5-mile route.

AARFA is a nonprofit organization for the sole purpose of presenting the American Armenian community’s achievements to the world. Help AARFA continue this tradition by donating online.

https://asbarez.com/armenian-float-wins-grand-marshal-award-at-135th-rose-parade/?fbclid=IwAR0tuQ7_7Px0I7FQol5C29Ka3xtfZETDvJ78CpGg_md_peULJMDgbvrSUQ4

[MosJan]

fine job Bravo !!!!