HAVERHILL, Mass. (A.W.)—Life Long Learners (LLL) from Northern Essex Community College have traveled the globe but never visited Armenia.
They received an all-encompassing tour of the country on Sept. 29 in a program titled “Armenia Revisited” by Armenian Weekly columnist Tom Vartabedian, who has taught classes in the Division of Continuing Education on Armenian language, history, and culture.
The presentation included a photo exhibit, DVD enhanced with music, and an introduction. Mentioned were such subjects as the genocide, geography, 20th anniversary of Armenian independence, pertinent sites, infrastructure, and contributions to world civilization.
Among the questions posed from an exclusively non-Armenian audience were matters of schooling, poverty, historic visages, tourism, and the Armenian community in America. Other queries included security, transportation, government, food, and climate. The lack of proper recognition of the Armenian Genocide by the United States touched off a rather vocal reaction from the crowd. About 75 folks attended the presentation.
“This proved to be one of the more popular ethnic programs we’ve had at the college,” said LLL Director Charlene Boucher. “People were amazed at how appealing and progressive such a country is today following years of genocide and servitude. Armenians are a race to be admired.”
Refreshments followed, during which spectators admired the 20 photographs on display.
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