–Kick-off Era of Closer ties with the Administration during New Term
WASHINGTON–DC–Armenian American Republicans from around the country came to the Nation’s Capital on Presidential Inauguration week in January to celebrate President George W. Bush’s re-election and to step up activities with the Republican Party–reported the National Organization of Republican Armenia’s (NORA).
From the main Inauguration Balls to the State sponsored functions throughout the week–Republican Armenia’s participated in a wide array of functions. For many–the trip to Washington was a family affair. NORA Board Member Ara Bedrosian and wife–Sandy–traveled to the Capital with parents and long-time Republican issues supporters John and Asdghig Bedrosian to join in the festivities. They were joined by their daughter–Ani Bedrosian–who is currently participating in the ANCA Capital Gateway Program and interning with Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Terrorism–Rep. Jim Saxton (R-NJ).
"It was indeed a pleasure to participate in inaugural activities this week and celebrate George Bush’s re-election," noted Ara Bedrosian. "The Armenian American participation at this and other Republican functions continues to grow each time. The next four years will be a terrific opportunity to build on existing relationships with the Republican leadership in an effort to promote closer US-Armenia economic ties and address the key concerns of our community," concluded Bedrosian–who also serves on the Armenian National Committee of America Western Region Board.
Michigan activists Charles and Tulie Yessaian joined their son Chuck Yessaian Jr. in attending functions throughout the week. Chuck Yessaian was recently hired as legislative director for Michigan Freshman Congressman Joe Schwarz after serving as legislative assistant with Michigan House colleague Fred Upton.
Massachusetts Republican State Committeeman Bob Semonian spoke with a number of key officials at the inaugural functions including close friend–Bush Administration Chief of Staff Andrew Card–and several Senate and House Republicans including House Freshman Republican Class Leader Michael McCaul (R-TX)–South Carolina Congressman Bob Inglis–and Ohio Senators George Voinovich and Mike DeWine. Semonian was recently appointed Chairman of Ethnic Outreach for the State of Massachusetts. He has been a delegate to last seven Republican National Conventions. Semonian was joined on the trip by Bob Avakian–outgoing Chairman of the Planning Board of Bedford–MA.
Florida Republicans Jim and Martha Batmasian participated in the week’s activities–including the Florida Ball. In the past–Martha Batmasian was a Republican Candidate for State Senate in Massachusetts.
Among others seen at the Republican galas include US Department of Transportation Maritime Administration Deputy Administrator John Jamian–former Connecticut State Representative Brian Flaherty–and a host of Armenian American Congressional staff members including Steve Karapetian–legislative assistant with Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA); Elise Aronson–Chief of Staff for Rep. Jim Saxton (R-NJ); Keith Nahigian–on staff with Sen. John McCain.