Armenian Youth Federation-YOARF Eastern US
80 Bigelow Ave
Watertown, MA 02472
Tel. (617) 923-1933
Fax (617) 924-1933

Over 400 Attend Annual AYF-YOARF Junior Seminar

WATERTOWN, Mass.-Over Memorial Day Weekend, over 400 AYF junior
andsenior members, representing over 15 chapters of the Eastern
Region, gathered at Camp Lutherlyn in Prospect, Penn., for the annual
AYF-YOARF Junior Seminar. Attendees, as well as lecturers and guests,
gathered for a weekend of educationals, discussions, and AYF
camaraderie.

This year’s theme was `Identity. Spirit. Tradition: Experience AYF.’
The weekend’s educational content revolved around this central message
where members learned about the various realms that theorganization
encompasses. The educational aspect of the weekend commenced early
Saturday morning where members attended various lectures geared to
their specific age group.

Various topics such as Armenian Kingdoms; the AYF members’ college
experience; AYF evolution; and the AYF members’ role in the
Armeniancommunity, sparked discussion on all levels amongst juniors,
seniors, and lecturers. `This year’s content was exceptional. Given
that we are two years away from celebrating the 75th anniversary of
the AYF, it isimportant for our members to know about the AYF as it
relates to itself, the community, and other organizations with which
it works with,’ saidNora Keomurjian, 2006 Junior Seminar committee
chairperson.

In addition to taking part in eight lectures, attendees rekindled
friendship and met fellow ungers and ungerouhis from various
chapters. `One of my favorite parts about Junior Seminar when I
attended as a junior was meeting new people from so many different
places. I continue to do so today as a senior,’ said 2006 Junior
Seminar committee member Simone Dinkjian-Soultanian.

Evening activities also added excitement to the weekend, including the
traditional Saturday night talent show. DJ Chris Krikorian, Aram
Hovagimian, andSevag Khatchadourian provided entertainment throughout
the weekend. A special addition to this year’s program was a showcase
of young talented members from the New Jersey Arsen chapter. Brothers
Shant and Raffi Massoyan, and Raffi Kouyoumjian played Armenian
melodies on traditional Armenian instruments such as the zurna, oud,
and dhol.

In its 36th year, Junior Seminar continues to be the driving force
that brings together membership, not only providing them with social
outlets, but the tools and knowledge needed to continue their
membership in the AYF.