As Weekly readers already know, the 2009 ANCA telethon was a great success, and a lot of that success came from small groups on the local level.
On the evening of May 31, the Armenian National Committee (ANC) of Rhode Island hosted a telethon watch party in conjunction with the celebration of the independence of the First Republic of Armenia. Those in attendance were treated to good food and drink. While the children enjoyed an ice cream sundae bar, their parents engaged in a lively tavloo tournament. All the while, live coverage of the telethon was projected on a big screen for all to see.
The community’s own Steve Mesrobian hosted and Stephanie Mesrobian was interviewed for the camera. Attendees said there was nothing like seeing local members of their small community making such a great difference for the Armenian Cause.
Although all the donations from Rhode Island have not yet been counted, it looks as though the smallest state in the nation was able to raise approximately $25,000, with a large part of that total coming from Martha, Sue, and Margo Aramian in memory of their parents, Kazar and Nevart, with a donation of $10,000.
Also worthy of mention is the Mesrobian family, with a donation of $5,250; the Rafaelian family, with a donation of $2,500; Vark and Lynne Markarian, $1,000; Aram Garabedian, $1,000; and Lillian Markarian, $300.
The local organizations all contributed, along with the Providence ARF “Kristapor” Gomideh making a donation of $500; the Providence AYF “Varantian” Seniors donating $500; and donations of $100 from the Providence ARS “Ani” Chapter, Homenetmen Providence Chapter, and Providence AYF Juniors.
Martha Aramian spoke to the crowd and encouraged the youth to give donations of $19.15. As she said, “It’s not always the big donations that truly make a difference.” Aram Garabedian also treated youngsters in the audience to a great motivational speech. Overall the evening was a success.
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