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CHALDEAN COMMERCE Official Newsletter of the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce FALL 2013 INSIDE MARKETING TIPS LEGISLATIVE UPDATE NEW & RENEWED MEMBERS DUGGAN’S ROAD to the Manoogian Mansion took a detour through the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce

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Fall Chaldean Chamber

Transcript of Cacc cc fall2013 final

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CHALDEAN COMMERCEOfficial Newsletter of the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce

FALL 2

013

INSIDEMARKETING TIPSLEGISLATIVE UPDATENEW & RENEWED MEMBERS

DUGGAN’S ROAD to the Manoogian Mansion took a detour through the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce

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GREETINGS

BRIEFINGS

FEATURE

MARKETING

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

OUR CHAMBER

SOCIALS

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are nonprofit corporations and independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. R018936

INDIVIDUAL PLANS | GROUP HEALTH PLANS | DENTAL | VISION | bcbsm.com

You expect the best from your employees, and they expect the best from you. Which must be the reason why so many business owners choose Blue Cross for their employees.

Find out what thousands of Michigan businesses already know. Visit bcbsm.com to learn more.

is the reason.

is the reason.

My awesome staff

Your Chamber Exclusively Endorses

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FALL 2013 CHALDEAN COMMERCE 3

Official Newsletter of the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce

CHALDEAN COMMERCE

GREETINGS

BRIEFINGS

FEATURE

MARKETING

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

OUR CHAMBER

SOCIALS

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6

8

10

11

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18

From the Chairman and the PresidentMission StatementCorporate SponsorsChamber Leadership & StaffAcknowledgments

Breaking Barriers hosts two eventsChaldean Community Foundation welcomes new program managerChamber hosts State DepartmentMembers in the News

Mayoral candidates highlight 8th Annual Business Luncheon

Beyond PR 101Internet marketing is more than just having a website

Less paperwork for businessesLast call at 4 a.m.?Supreme Court mandate courts provide interpreter servicesMichigan proposes law ensuring a pint of beer contains every ounceMichigan microbrewers want to boost output

New & Renewed Members

Industry Outlook – Sept. 12Speed Networking – Aug. 14Quarterly Networking Meeting - July 31

FALL 2013

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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are nonprofit corporations and independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. R018936

INDIVIDUAL PLANS | GROUP HEALTH PLANS | DENTAL | VISION | bcbsm.com

You expect the best from your employees, and they expect the best from you. Which must be the reason why so many business owners choose Blue Cross for their employees.

Find out what thousands of Michigan businesses already know. Visit bcbsm.com to learn more.

is the reason.

is the reason.

My awesome staff

Your Chamber Exclusively Endorses

On the Cover: Mayor-elect Mike Duggan speaks at his election night celebration in Detroit Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2013. Photo by Paul Sancya/AP

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Our MissionThe Chaldean-American Chamber of Commerce

is a partnership of Chaldean businesses and

professionals working together to strengthen

members’ business, increase job opportunities,

encourage expansion and promote Chaldean

business and culture. The Chamber seeks to

service and represent Aramaic-speaking people,

including Assyrians, Chaldeans and Syriacs.

GreetinGs

Renowned poet William Cullen Bryant once referred to autumn as “the year’s last loveliest smile.” This quote is especially fitting for the Chamber and its nonprofit arm, the Chaldean Commu-

nity Foundation (CCF) as Fall 2013 was one of the most bountiful in both organizations’ histories.

The CCF’s fiscal year begins and ends in the Fall and Fiscal Year 2013 was the CCF’s busiest and most successful. The staff is still tal-lying the figures but an estimated 13,000 people received a variety of vital services including immigration assistance, job placement, mental health services, medical care through Project Bismutha or an auto loan through the Chaldean Loan Fund. We will have the final numbers in time for the annual report, which will publish shortly after the New Year.

Autumn also saw the Chamber continue to build upon its most successful year, which coincides with a yearlong celebration of the Chamber’s 10th Anniversary. To date, all signature events including the Annual Dinner, Annual Golf Outing and Annual Business Lun-cheon were the most fruitful ever in terms of attendance.

While Fiscal Year 2013 is coming to a close for the Chamber, it is far from over. We still have two high profile events on the horizon – Energy Industry Outlook on Dec. 3 and the Annual Christmas Party on December 5. A Quarterly Networking meeting will kick of 2014’s event calendar on Jan. 23. As always we will keep you informed of each event and continue to send out reminders.

As you can see, we have much to celebrate as the year for the Chamber winds down and the CCF’s year begins.

Thank you for your membership and your continued support of the Chaldean community.

Paul Asker Martin MannaChairman President

from the chairman and president

MARTIN MANNAPAUL ASKER

Special Thanks to our 2013 Corporate Partners

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acknowledgments

Special thanks to those who have contributed to or supported our activities during the past quarter:

1-800-LAW-FIRMABCOSATAmeriFirst EnergyArabo, FaisalArcadia Home Care & StaffingAsker Perlmuter, PLCASTI EnvironmentalBahoura BarringerBlue Cross Blue Shield of MIBrikho, MartenCarroll, BruceClark Hill PLC ComcastComerica BankCommunity Choice Credit UnionDawn Pullis State Farm InsuranceDean Foods/Country FreshDenise Illitch Dorsey SchoolsDr. Smith- EtotiaDTE EnergyEvans Distribution SystemsFarbman GroupFarm Bureau Insurance- Al Jamoua

AgencyFarris, CoreyGasso Group, LLCGrafico PrintingGreat Lakes Home InspectionGreat Lakes Hy-SaveHealth Alliance PlanJackson, Celestine MayJames ScaliciJappaya Law, PLCJonna Construction, LLCLake Trust Credit UnionLevel One Bank - Bloomfield HillsLiberty Title AgencyMadonna UniversityMamat, FrankMarian High SchoolMarla Schwaller Carew PLLCMEP Engineers, LLCMichigan First Credit UnionMoss, ChuckNick’s ChipsOram, JenniferPeters, LouPM Environmental, IncRayis, James Redley, CynthiaRyan Fishman for State SenateSankari, FadiSave-A-Lot - PontiacShapiro, SharonaSherwood Food DistributorsShimoun, Yaldo, Kashat & Associates, PCShore MortgageSix Sigma ConsultingSt. John Providence Health SystemsStrobl & Sharp PCSuper Fair CellularTamou’s Electrical Services, Inc.Tapper’s Diamonds & Fine JewelryTC Title Connect LLCThomas, EliTrepco Wholesale Tucker, Young, Jackson, Hull, Inc.U.S. Ice CorpValue Wholesale DistributorsVarnum LawVerizonWalled Lake SchoolsWalsh CollegeWalter’s The Shopping PlaceWayne State University Physician GroupWest Bloomfield School DistrictWireless Vision, L.L.C.Yatooma, Stephen

Our Chamber

EXECUTIVE BOARD

CHAIRMANPAUL ASKERAsker Perlmuter PLC

IMMEDIATE PAST-CHAIRMANSAAD HAJJARAbsocat Corporation

EXECUTIVE VICE-CHAIRMANJEFFREY DENHABrass Aluminum Forging Enterprises

VICE-CHAIRMANKEVIN JAPPAYAThomas A. Duke Company

SECRETARYMARK SARAFAPop Daddy Popcorn

TREASURERSYLVESTER SANDIHAPinnacle Management Group

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERSAAD ABBOU.S. Ice Corporation

DIRECTORS

DR. IYAD ALOSACHIEHazel Park Medical Center

MATTHEW LOUSSIAValue Wholesale

KLINT KESTO State Representative Michigan’s 39th District

SHARONA SHAPIROJewish Hospice and Chaplaincy Network

STEVEN TAPPERTapper’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry

STEPHEN YATOOMAWayne County Sheriff’s Office

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

MEMBERSHIPTiffany George & Sylvester Sandiha

PR/PUBLICATIONSSaad Hajjar & Paul Asker

DETROIT INDEPENDENT GROCERSMatthew Loussia & Stephen Yatooma

ANNUAL AWARDS DINNERFrank Jonna & Gerard van Grinsven

GOLF OUTINGMark Sarafa & Klint Kesto

ANNUAL BUSINESS LUNCHEONKevin Jappaya & Steven Tapper

CULTURAL NIGHTSly Sandiha

WOMEN’SSharona Shapiro, Tiffany George & Klint Kesto

POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE (PAC)Saad Abbo, Sharona Shapiro & Stephen Yatooma

CHAMBER AND FOUNDATION STAFF

MARTIN MANNAPresident

LISA KALOUDirector, Operations & Human Resources

ERIC YOUNANDirector of Strategic Initiatives

SHARON HANNAWAProgram Manager, Refugee Acculturation Sustainability and Training

BAN ABBOProgram Manager, Refugee Mental Health Services

SANA NAVARRETTEMembership Manager

ALFRED ALLOSCareer Services Manager

WALID ABROCase Manager

KRISTIN JIRJIS BAJOKACase Manager

OMAR BINNOCase Manager

SALIM GASSOAttorney

NIDHAL HADIDCase Manager

WISAM JIRJISCase Manager

BUSHRA KARANAReceptionist/Administrative Assistant

JUMHORIA KASKORKISCase Manager

SUSAN KATTULACase Manager

CANDACE KHAMARKOReceptionist/Administrative Assistant

CLIFFORD NAFSUFinance

BALSAM SADIKData Entry Clerk

RANDY SAMONAImmigration Attorney

YUSRA SHAMOUNEvents Coordinator

GALIA THOMASTri-Lingual Translator/Case Manager

RAAD YOUSIFCase Manager

SALAM YOUSIFCase Manager

AMANDA ALKATIBProgram Manager, Project Bismutha

JENNIFER SHAMOUNProgram Manager, Project Bismutha

Join a Committee!To get involved with a committee, call 248-996-8340 or email [email protected].

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Breaking Barriers hosts two eventsBreaking Barriers – the Chaldean Community Foundation’s (CCF) program for Chaldeans with special needs – held its first ever bowling event at Cham-ber member Star Lanes inside the Emagine Theater in Royal Oak, on Saturday, August 24 from 1-3 p.m. More than 30 clients of the program par-ticipated in two hours of fun, food, and refreshments. Vol-unteers included members of the CCF staff, as well as other members of the community who were eager to lend a helping hand. Volunteers and clients both had a memorable time, and all have expressed a fervent enthusiasm for the next ‘Breaking Barriers’ social event.

The Breaking Barriers group visited the Chaldean Sisters Convent in Farmington Hills on Sept. 20. They were welcomed by many of the Sisters and her holiness Mother Mubaraka. Sister Trezia led them in prayer in the Chapel and then the group enjoyed an early dinner together.

Chaldean Community Foundation welcomes new program manager

The CCF is pleased to announce Ban Abbo MA, LLP, who is the new program manager of the Refugee Mental Health Services (RMHS) program. Ban

will be responsible for ensuring CCF clients receive the best possible psychological care. She will also oversee St. John Eastwood Clinic, which is the CCF’s partner for RMHS. She will also supervise all transportation and interpretation arrangements conducted on behalf of clients.

Ban Abbo

briefinGs

Chamber hosts State DepartmentThe Deputy Assistant Secretary for Iraq Affairs, Brett McGurk, was hosted in Detroit for a meet-ing with community leaders and newly arrived refugees by the Nineveh Council of America. Ac-companying him was Amy Norris, policy analyst for the Iraq desk at the State Department and David Staples, community liaison. DAS McGurk met with the Council and community leaders at Shenandoah Country Club for lunch and a discussion on the prospects for a province in the Nineveh plains. The conversation was honest and Mr. McGurk was happy to hear the concerns of the community and informed us of his awareness of the concerns of ethnic minorities in Iraq. After lunch, he visited the Chaldean Community Foundation’s refugee resettlement office in Sterling Heights where he toured the facilities and met with four refugees who told him of their experiences. He said that refugees help to put a human face on the toll of war and promised to do what he can to preserve the presence of Iraq’s indigenous people in the country.

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Saroki Architecture celebrates 30 years of successVictor Saroki & Associates Architects PC recently celebrated its 30th year in business. More than 200 friends, colleagues and guests gathered to celebrate the firm’s success at a private event held at Saroki Architecture’s offices in Birmingham.

Coinciding with the celebration, Victor Saroki himself was proud to announce the changing of the firm’s name from Victor Saroki & Associates Architects PC to Saroki Architecture. Along with the new name comes a complete rebrand of the firm’s logo and website. The new brand highlights the teams growing success and commitment to providing excellence in architecture through a hands-on, customer centric approach.

Sandra K. Alexander named Super Lawyers Michigan Rising Stars

Sandra K. Alexander, Esq., of Alexander Law Associates, PLLC has been named to the Super Lawyers Michigan Ris-ing Stars list as one of the top up-and-coming attorneys in Michigan for 2013, an honor

she has received since 2010 in the areas of business and commercial law. Each year, no more than 2.5 percent of the lawyers in the state receive this honor.

Spartan Stores growsSpartan Stores Inc., the 10th-largest grocery distributor in the U.S.,

became much larger thanks to its acquisition of Minneapolis-based Nash Finch Co.

HAP opens retail centerHealth Alliance Plan (HAP), Michigan’s second largest health

insurer with more than 670,000 members, in collaboration with Henry Ford OptimEyes opened an in-person enrollment and educa-tion center inside the Henry Ford OptimEyes Troy Super Vision Center. This offering, coupled with dedicated staff at the insurer’s

Detroit and Southfield offices, emphasize the company’s rejuvenated consultative service strategy by allowing new and existing mem-bers to navigate their health care questions and concerns at ease with the assistance of onsite representation.

Macomb McLaren Hospital receives two prominent distinctionsMcLaren Macomb has been ranked as one of the best hospitals for 2013-14 in the Detroit metro area and in Michigan. Now in its 24th year, the annual U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings recognize hospitals that excel in treating the most challenging patients.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan has recognized McLaren Macomb as one of the first hospitals in the nation to receive a Blue Distinction Center+SM designation in the area of cardiac care, as part of the Blue Distinction Centers for Specialty Care® program. Blue Distinction Centers are hospitals shown to deliver quality specialty care based on objec-tive, transparent measures for patient safety and health outcomes that were developed with input from the medical community.

McLaren Macomb Hospital names new chief operation officer

McLaren Macomb has promot-ed Christopher Candela to chief operating officer. Most recently, Candela served as director of Ancillary Services at McLaren Macomb. He joined the hospi-tal in 2008.

Prior to his role at McLaren Macomb, he held various management level positions in rehabilitation services since 2000,

including serving as manager of Inpatient and Outpatient Rehabilitation Services at Henry Ford Macomb. Before joining the Henry Ford Health System, Candela was clinical adminis-trator at Tri Rehab in New Baltimore.

A licensed physical therapist, Candela earned a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy from Wayne State University and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Detroit Mercy.

members in the news

Christopher Candela

Sandra K. Alexander

Nick’s Chips teams with EminemInterscope Records, has partnered with Nick’s Chips to promote Eminem’s new album MMLP2.

As part of the promotion, each bag of Nick’s Chip will be adorned with a sticker featuring the album cover, Nov. 5 release date and the opportunity to win an Emi-nem prize pack.

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feature

The tone was jovial but the stakes were serious as Detroit’s two mayoral candidates addressed members of the

Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce at its annual business luncheon on October 17.

Rather than share the stage at Shenandoah Country Club, Benny Napoleon and Mike Duggan each sat down for a cozy chat with Charlie Langton of Fox 2 News.

The candidates seemed to agree on many of the issues raised, including the belief that Gov. Rick Snyder was wrong to appoint an emergency financial manager for Detroit.

“I think the person was sent here illegally,” said Napoleon of Kevyn Orr, adding there was not a “compelling enough reason” for the “dictatorship” appointment. “It is the most anti-democratic thing I have seen in my adult life.”

Duggan said he lobbied extensively against the emergency manager and that if elected, he would implore Snyder to eliminate Orr’s posi-tion. “You don’t turn around an organization with an outsider,” he said.

“Turn around” were words Duggan used

often as he cited his experience running the once-floundering Detroit Medical Center.

“It took three hours to see an [emergency room] doctor when I took over. We cut it down and now 95 percent of patients see one in 25 minutes.”

That experience, he said, will serve busi-nesspeople well if he is elected Detroit’s mayor.

“Anyone who has done the Detroit permit-ting process knows exactly what I am talking about,” Duggan said, promising a “prompt, fair and final permitting process.”

Napoleon scored points by praising

Detroit’s independent grocers and slamming generous incentives to lure businesses like Whole Foods and Meijer into the city.

“Anyone here can rival Whole Foods with a grocery store -- and probably would not have asked for a tax abatement,” he said. “Give the tax break to people contributing to the community for the past 40 or 50 years. I would give it to someone sitting in this room before Whole Foods.”

Duggan pledged in his first year to lower tax abatements. “I will base property taxes on the real value of the property,” he said.

Both men said they would improve police response times and defended the right of store owners to call 911 about loiterers. “It’s the po-lice’s job” to handle such matters, Napoleon said.

“Before we put demands on our business owners to make better use of 911 we first have to show up when you call,” said Duggan.

Napoleon passionately defended pensions for employees of the police and fire depart-ments. “It in enshrined in the constitution,” he said. Duggan agreed that previously agreed-to

Mayoral candidates highlight 8th Annual Business Luncheon By Joyce Wiswell

The candidates seemed to agree on many of the issues raised, including the belief that Gov. Rick Snyder was wrong to appoint an emergency financial manager for Detroit.

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pensions should be kept intact, calling them “sacrosanct,” but said he’d like to see 401 (k) retirement funds enacted instead.

Napoleon cited his personal friend-ship with Matty Moroun, the owner of the Ambassador Bridge who has been criticized for leaving the Michigan Cen-tral Station in a decrepit state.

“I think I can convince Mr. Maroon to do something with it,” he said of the decaying landmark train station.

Langton asked each man to say something nice about the other.

“What do you like about Mike Duggan?” he asked Napoleon.

“The way he dresses,” said the sheriff.Duggan was a bit more magnanimous,

calling his opponent “a good guy, a great con-versationalist and a pleasure to be around.”

Duggan was asked by an audience member how Detroit can help the many Chaldean refugees coming into Michigan.

“The ‘us vs. them’ policies will be gone once and for all,” he replied. “All will be equally valued.”

Reprinted with special permission from the Chaldean News.

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marketinG

Beyond PR 101By Justin Fisette

So you’ve announced your new business or location, and you’re

left afterward with a pile of glitter, extra invitations and, hopefully, media cov-erage – now what?

Many businesses encounter this problem, finding themselves in a public relations lull after a major announcement or launch. How, exactly, do you stay relevant and newsworthy after the initial breaking news is out? What keeps the me-dia and potential customers interested? What are the keys to promoting your business via PR and communications strategies, moving forward?

Step 1: Leverage the Coverage!Was there a great story written about your

product or business? What are you doing with it? Show off what’s been written. Third-party credibility provided by “unpaid” media coverage illustrates others have taken notice of what you’re doing, and deemed it worthy. Take advantage of their approval, sharing it with various audiences.

Such articles or broadcast coverage can be further promoted in myriad ways, from social media to your website to business pitch/presentations, in turn reinforcing your businesses’ strengths and key mes-sages.

The ability to champion your accomplish-ments will set you apart from others who are happy with simply knowing the cover-age exists. Don’t assume potential clients or customers read or hear about you – ask – and show off (beyond the original story air or publication dates).

Step 2: Know your storyEvery business has a story. From basement startups to multibillion dollar global empires

and everyone in between, there’s a story. Do you know yours?

Figure out how to tell your story, the so-called elevator speech. Where did your idea or inspiration come from, and what prompted action? How are you different from your com-petitors? Why are you a better option than others? If you’re set on success, chances are you know the answers to all of those ques-tions, and understand their importance to your business. Make sure others do too.

Such “key message” elements help frame out a business profile, and give insight as to why yours is a business that requires further consideration. As with a grand opening or founding, people take notice of new. If you can explain how your business principles are new or innovative, you’re well on your way toward telling and building your story – ini-tially and over time.

Step 3: Figure out your next stepWhere is your business going next? Are you hiring at a rapid pace, and if so, why? What

Many small busi-ness owners think having a

web presence is enough for new customers to find them. However, having a website for your busi-ness is only the start of your digital marketing campaign. Businesses make the mistake of designing a website and investing heavily in an upfront cost but then the site stays idle for months and sometimes years. This just simply is bad business.

A website is just as important as any other part of your business. For example, when you own a liquor store, you must stock your shelves with the best products out there so that you are able to sell. In order to do this, you constantly have to restock and keep current with your products. The same applies for owning a web-site. You have to keep it fresh with new content

and update your services so it doesn’t look dated. If you own an e-commerce site, you al-ways have to keep it updated and fresh because you are selling products online. If you are an attorney and have a website for your firm, your website has to be updated with new content at the very least once every two weeks. It can be as simple as posting a blog about a new law that was recently passed or even a success story from one of your clients. All of these little things will help with having your website look fresh and can also help rank your site on search engines like Google, Yahoo and Bing.

Want to get your business ranked right away?

Whether you have a website or not, market-ing your business on the internet is very impor-tant, especially when you are doing business lo-cally. This is where local listing directories play a

huge role in getting your business ranked when people search online. For example, if you own a deli in Novi, Michigan, you should be on every local listing directory that there is to showcase your phone number, address, website, menu, pictures, videos, specials, hours of operation, methods of payment and much more. You may

even notice that on some of the more popular directories like Google Places, Yelp or Yellow Pages, your business is already listed without you doing anything. This happens because these websites pull your basic information like phone

Internet marketing is more than just having a websiteBy Al Zara

BY AL ZARA

JUSTIN FISETTE

Local listing directories play a huge role in getting your business ranked when people search online.

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are the economic and business factors behind a group of hires and growth, or is your business expanding into new service sectors? Is your company or area of exper-tise industry-leading or trend setting?

Think like a consumer, preferably your target cus-tomer. After their initial interaction with your business, why would they want to become a repeat customer? The key is continued engagement via messages that resonate.

Persistence is key to getting it rightOptions typically abound for stories and PR opportuni-ties within your business, it’s a matter of identifying and sharing them correctly.

One thing to always remember is that, just like your venture, PR success doesn’t come overnight. Continu-ously developing your story and focusing on communica-tions – both internal and external – can unearth the types of stories from within your organization that help show-case and highlight why you’re the best at what you do.

Justine Fisette is an account manager at Tanner Friedman, a strategic communications firm specializing in tra-ditional and emerging media relations, marketing and public relations counsel. Visit: TannerFriedman.com.

Less paperwork for businessesState officials are committed to cutting in half the number of government forms Michigan businesses must fill out, and touted changes they have already made to make the state more business-friendly.

The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) announced its Reinventing Performance in Michigan program in partnership with three other state agencies. In addition to reducing paperwork, a goal of the program is a 50% improvement in customer response time. LARA Director Steve Arwood and Lt. Gov. Brian Calley announced the program at an event in Grand Rapids.

Last call at 4 a.m.?Supporters lobbying for a bill that would let bars and restaurants in central business districts extend last call to 4 a.m. say keeping alcohol sales flowing for two more hours would make cities like Detroit more competitive with the likes of Chicago, Miami and New York. The bill (SB247) has yet to be voted on, but it is expected to be taken up again in committee in the coming weeks. If approved, businesses would have to purchase an after-hours permit for $10,000 each year. That money would be distributed, with 85% to local police departments, 10% to the Liquor Control Commission and 5% to the local unit of government. Sen. Virgil Smith, D-Detroit, is sponsoring the bill.

Supreme Court mandate courts provide interpreter servicesIndigent non-English language speakers involved in the Michigan legal system must be provided free interpreter services under a new Supreme Court rule adopted recently. Interpreter services approximately cost courts $7 to $9.5 million statewide, but since many courts already offer the service, it’s not known how much of an additional cost this will end up being. Judges are given the power

under the order to recoup translator services from parties able to pay for them. It’s estimated 320,000 people in Michigan have difficulty speaking English. Judges have said when these limited English speakers show up in court as a party or a key witness, the lack of a translator becomes a “show stopper.”

Michigan proposes law ensuring a pint of beer contains every ounceA bill introduced in the state legislature would make it illegal for bar and restaurant proprietors to advertise or sell a pint of beer that contains less than a pint — which, in the U.S., is typically 16 ounces.

The bill’s co-sponsor, State Representative Brandon Dillon, D-Grand Rapids, says folks should get what they pay for. “If you’re going to offer something that is an actually recognized unit of measurement, you should have to actually sell what you say you’re advertising,” Dillon said.

Some pint-style beer glasses with thicker bottoms hold as little as 12 ounces. British pints check in at 20 ounces. Some bar owners aren’t happy with the prospect of having to buy all new glassware, while supporters of the legislation say they could just call the pints something else.

Michigan microbrewers want to boost outputMichigan’s burgeoning craft beer industry is backing a bipartisan package of bills to loosen the state’s complex array of brewery regulations and allow further expansion. While lawmakers and craft beer industry officials agree the reforms are needed, some microbrewery owners argue the steps may not be enough to jolt the industry into much higher growth. Legislators are in the process of boosting the number of barrels microbreweries are allowed to produce each year, broaden limits on the ownership of brew pubs and let small brewers serve up their beers in two drinking rooms apiece.

number and address from the city or state directories which most the time is outdated or incorrect. You have to be the one to control your own directories. This can be done by paying a small monthly fee and have a company do it for you. There are many advantages of having a com-pany manage your local listing directories for you:

Finding out all of the directories that can help you be found online, including mobile and navigation devices.

Updating special offers about your business without having to spend days researching and updating.

Reputation management to find out who is talking good or bad about your business.

Linking your online ordering or reservation links to these directories to help get you more business immediately.

So, the next time you think about updating your web-site or ways to market your business online, look at your business from the perspective of the customer or client and figure out what exactly it is they would want to read, find or know about your business.

Al Zara is the owner and program manager of Geek Town USA. They specialize in Digital Marketing, Web Design and IT Services. He has more than fifteen years of experience in the field stemming from the corporate environment, government sector and entrepreneurship. Visit www.geektownusa.com.

LeGisLative update

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New Corporate MembersEITEL DAHM MOTOR GROUPNicholas Berinti, General Manager4550 Dequindre RoadShelby Township, MI 48317248-997-7547www.bavarian-bmw.comA network of premium auto dealerships including Audi of Rochester Hills, Bavarian BMW, Motor City Mini and Porche of the Motor City.

MAGNOLIA BY THE LAKESDr. Farideh Bagne, President and CEO1699 Cass Lake Road, Suite 300Keego Harbor, MI 48320248-681-7505www.magnolia4me.comA luxury European style independent, elder and senior resort living village on Cass Lake.

WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY PHYSICIAN GROUPJackie Dombrowski, Marketing Coordinator1420 Stephenson HighwayTroy, MI 48083248-581-5941www.upgdocs.orgA large nonprofit multi-specialty physician practice groups, with more than 2,000 affiliated physicians providing primary and specialty care. As faculty members at the top-rated Wayne State University School of Medicine, their doctors are at the forefront of medical science.

New Partner MemberCOVENTRY CARES OF MICHIGANDiane Byrd-Johnson, Manager, Community Development1333 Gratiot Avenue, Suite 400Detroit, MI 48207313-465-1590www.coventrycaresmi.comA health care organization that serves members for Medicaid and MI Child healthcare services in Cass, Hillsdale, Kalamazoo, Oakland, Macomb, St. Joseph and Wayne Counties. They are committed to providing access to quality, cost effective and reliable healthcare to Michigan’s underserved populations.

New Business MembersARCADIA HOME CARE & STAFFINGLynn Feinberg, Account Executive920 East Maple RoadBirmingham, MI 48009248-594-4574www.arcadiahomecare.comA care provider that is committed to helping people stay at home and healthier longer by providing caregivers to assist you in your home, wherever that may be.

BRIO ENERGY CORPORATIONCatherine Trefzer, President and Energy Management Consultant18530 Mack Avenue, Suite 343Grosse Pointe, MI 48236800-727-2035www.brioenergycorp.comA company that specializes

in saving small-to medium-sized business money on their electricity and natural gas costs. They shop the suppliers so you don’t have to and present you bids for your consideration.

CARNIVAL BOUNCE RENTALSMichael Kayayan, Owner and President24370 Indoplex CircleFarmington Hills, MI 48335248-231-5421www.carnivalbounce.comA provider of party rental supplies including moonwalk rentals, inflatable entertainment, carnival games and concessions for school, church, company, private and fundraising events and outings.

CHICKEN SHACKJohnathan Sesi, Owner29129 Northwestern HighwaySouthfield, MI 48034248-945-0900www.chickenshack.comA restaurant serving chicken, ribs and seafood.

DETROIT BELLE ISLE GRAND PRIXCharles Burns, General Manager300 Renaissance Center, Suite 2311Detroit, MI 48243313-748-1850www.detroitgp.comA 501(c)3 organization and a subsidiary of the Downtown Detroit Partnership that produces the annual race that features cars of the IZOD Indy Car Series, the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series and the Pirelli World Challenge Championship Series.

DETROIT MARRIOTT AT THE RENAISSANCE CENTERRenee Hanna, Director of Catering SalesRenaissance Center, 400 Renaissance DriveDetroit, MI 48243313-568-8311www.marriott.com\dtwdtA hotel that soars 73 floors above downtown Detroit and situated on the RiverWalk. It features 34 meeting rooms with the capacity to accommodate small and large events from 20 to 2,000 guests.

DR. CHARLES D. ELIAS - PSYCHOTHERAPIST Charles Elias26105 La MueraFarmington Hills, MI 48334248-893-7888http://charleselias.netA psychotherapist specializing in personal and business consulting.

EASTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITYLeigh Greden, Vice President of Government & Community Relations207 Welch Hall-EMUYpsilanti, MI 48197734-487-7048www.emich.eduA public comprehensive university that prepares students with the intellectual skills and experiences to succeed in their careers and lives.

ENGLISH GARDENSBob Walker, Partner and Business-to-Business Development Manager6346 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 207West Bloomfield, MI 48322248-396-7326www.englishgardens.comAn operator of six retail stores and a full-service, award-winning landscaping department in Metro Detroit. Each retail store features a nursery, garden center, florist, patio shop, and seasonal Christmas center featuring the best value and finest quality products and services to beautify gardens, homes and holidays. The landscaping company offers full-service design, installation as well as interior and exterior decorating for the holiday season.

FARM BUREAU INSURANCEAl Jamoua, Agent1771 West Big Beaver RoadTroy, MI 48084248-816-2056www.mibestinsurance.comA provider of home, life, auto and business insurance and retirement planning.

FLEMING’S STEAK HOUSE & WINE BARMarsha Kovacs, Private Dining Director323 North Old Woodward AvenueBirmingham, MI 48009248-723-0134

Randall MansourDisability Attorneys of Michigan

I joined the Chaldean Chamber to interact and be acquainted with other prominent professionals and businesses within our community. More importantly, I felt it was a great networking resource that allowed me to promote and advocate the type of work that I do. I would highly recommend others to join this wonderful organization.

WHY I AM A MEMBER

new & renewed members

members

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www.flemingssteakhouse.com/locations/mi/birminghamA restaurant and wine bar specializing in providing the finest aged beer, freshest seafood and an award-winning wine list with more than 100 selections.

GEEK TOWN USAAl Zara, Owner30201 Orchard Lake RoadFarmington Hills, MI 48334248-361-9500www.geektownusa.comA full service marketing agency with services that include graphic design, power listings and reputation management.

GRAPHICO PRINTINGLeonard Jacob, Owner28671 Northwestern HighwaySouthfield, MI 48034248-799-9990www.facebook.com/ GRAFICOPRINTINGA provider of printing, banners, signs, promotional items and graphic design.

HANNA’S FRUIT MARKETJahan Hanna, Owner4147 15 Mile RoadSterling Heights, MI 48310586-264-6805A full service fruit market that carries a full line of produce, groceries and fresh bread baked daily.

IMPERIAL SENIOR SUITESBrenda Matthews, Marketing Director27600 Franklin RoadSouthfield, MI 48034248-800-0180www.seniorlivingsouthfield.comA community of apartment homes for active-minded seniors who wish to remain independent and enhance their lifestyle.

INDIAN TRAILS, INC.Chad Cushman, Vice President109 East Comstock StreetOwosso, MI 48867989-725-5105www.indiantrails.comAn operator of one of the largest and newest fleet of deluxe motor coaches in Michigan. Services include charters, tours, shuttles,

airport transfers, casino runs and daily scheduled routes. Coach amenities include free WiFi and 110V electrical outlets. Wheelchair accessibility and coaches with seat-belts and Hearing Loop technology are available upon request.

INVESTICO DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONNed Hakim, President22580 Telegraph RoadSouthfield, MI 48034248-356-1230www.investicodev.comA real estate developer.

KAYE FINANCIALCharyl Gordon, Branch Manager29623 Northwestern HighwaySouthfield, MI 48034248-356-8300A mortgage broker specializing in conventional, jumbo, Veterans Administration and United States Department of Agriculture loans.

LA MARSA MEDITERRANEAN CUISINEFadhel Gannouni, Vice President6215 Orchard Lake RoadWest Bloomfield, MI 48322248-539-5900www.lamarsacuisine.comA Mediterranean cuisine restaurant.

LAKE TRUST CREDIT UNIONSteve Wizgird, Business Services Officer8661 West Grand RiverBrighton, MI 48116734-462-8668www.laketrust.orgA full service credit union and provider of commercial loans for businesses throughout southern Michigan.

LINCOLN FINANCIAL ADVISORSMichael Acho, Certified Financial Planner1000 Town Center, 26th FloorSouthfield, MI 48075248-948-5100www.linkedin.com/pub/ michael-acho/27/913/3a8A provider of a wide range of financial services including wealth management and preservation strategies,

investments, personal risk management, estate/asset protection and estate planning.

LUCIA ZAMORANO MD, PLC. MICHIGAN BRAIN & SPINE SURGERY CENTERLucia Zamorano, Owner2004 Hazel StreetBirmingham, MI 48009248-723-2477www.luciazamorano.comA surgery center specializing in CAS and minimally invasive surgery, including endoscopy, stereotaxis, and robotic.

MADONNA UNIVERSITYRanae Hamama, Admissions Officer36600 Schoolcraft RoadLivonia, MI 48150734-432-5339www.madonna.eduA university that is one of the largest Catholic, Franciscan, independent universities in the country. Through undergraduate, graduate, and continuing educa-tion programs Madonna Univer-sity provides men and women of all religious, social, cultural and ethnic backgrounds with oppor-tunities for intellectual, spiritual and personal growth. Liberal arts education, career preparation and service learning are the hallmarks of a Madonna education.

MARHABA RESTAURANTAdnan Asmar, Owner28968 Orchard Lake RoadFarmington Hills, MI 48334248-855-5511A restaurant specializing in Middle Eastern cuisine.

MARLA SCHWALLER CAREW PLLCMarla Carew, Attorney and Owner101 West Big Beaver Rd., 14th FloorTroy, MI 48084248-270-8536www.carewlegal.comA law firm offering business law, tax and estate planning services for closely-held businesses and their owners.

MAX REHAB PHYSICAL THERAPYJoseph Labib, Owner28051 Dequindre RoadMadison Heights, MI 48071586-806-2585

A provider of physical therapy services.

MOBILINOW FURNITUREChris Bahoora, President745 East Maple RoadBirmingham, MI 48009248-792-3612www.mobilinow.comA design consultant with access to stylish and quality furniture from all over the world. From vintage classics by the forefathers of architecture to modern and contemporary, that can provide pieces that transform the norm to the unimaginable.

Melissa KakozBank of Michigan

Being involved with the Chamber has helped me utilize resources within our community that I did not know were available. We have been able to network and expose our financial institution with the assistance of the Chamber. We are constantly made aware of different educational seminars, networking events, charity fundraisers, or community events that keep us involved within our community. The knowledgeable and helpful staff is always willing to go the extra mile with whatever question or request we have regardless of how challenging the task may be.

WHY I AM A MEMBER

July 1, 2013 - October 10, 2013

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NERIUM SKINCARELaurie Incarnatti, Brand Partner355 Gray Woods LaneLake Angelus, MI 48326248-330 9878www.laurieincarnati.nerium.comA provider of skincare products.

NORTHWESTERN MUTUALRudolph Makupson, Financial Representative901 Wilshire Drive, Suite 300Troy, MI 48084248-244-6093www.nm.com/rudolphmakupsonA financial planner specializing in services ranging from insurance to investments.

POP DADDY POPCORN LLCMark Sarafa, Owner205 Nairn CircleHighland, MI 48357248-996-2867www.popdaddypopcorn.comA family-owned producer of premium popcorn snacks popped in 100% pure olive oil and sea salt. They source as many materials possible from Michigan-based suppliers and farms.

RE/MAX CLASSICJonathan Kello, Associate Realtor29630 Orchard Lake RoadFarmington Hills, MI 48334248-737-6800www.jonkello.comA provider of residential real estate and alternative investments.

RECOVERY SERVICES & AUDIT LLCMichael Kay, President27777 Franklin Road, Suite 2500Southfield, MI 48034248-827-4847A service provider that helpsmerchants who accepted MasterCard and Visa transactionsbetween Jan. 1, 2004 through Nov.28, 2012 and opted in to a classaction lawsuit win legal filings.

SAHARA RESTAURANTZeana Attisha, Owner24770 Coolidge HighwayOak Park, MI 48237248-399-7744www.newsahara.comA restaurant specializing in Middle Eastern cuisine.

SAPPHIRE BUILDINGRandy Najjar, CEO1700 West Big Beaver Road, Suite 100Troy, MI 48084248-925-9074www.homesbysapphire.comA builder of luxury homes in Macomb and Oakland Counties.

SHANBOM EYE SPECIALISTSally Murad-Kejbou, Opthamologist28747 Woodward AvenueBerkley, MI 48072248-546-2133www.shanbomeyespecialist.comA comprehensive ophthalmology practice specializing in advanced laser surgery, glaucoma, diabetic eye exams, lasik, botox and fillers.

SHORE MORTGAGEMonica Haider, Vice President1414 East Maple Road, 3rd FloorTroy, MI 48083248-833-4444www.shoremortgage.comA nationwide leader in mortgage industry.

SMILE AMERICA DENTAL CENTERNidaa Abdal DDS30890 West 10 Mile RoadFarmington Hills, MI 48336248-478-0900A provider of dental services for individuals and families.

SPIDER DEVELOPMENTBrent Sheena, President746 East Maple RoadBirmingham, MI 48009888-866-5907www.spiderdevelopment.comAn IT services provider that specializes in web design, web hosting, tech support, custom applications and graphic and social networking design.

ST. ANNE’S MEADJane Collins, Executive Director16106 West 12 Mile RoadSouthfield, MI 48076248-557-1221www.stannesmead.orgA senior assisted living and nursing care community offering compassionate and professional health care and supportive services in a safe, secure, and loving home.

TAP SNAP PHOTOTAINMENTRay Lousia, Franchise Owner444 Fox Hill Drive North, Unit 1Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304248-671-4472www.tapsnap.netA digital photo booth provider for special events.

TAX & ACCOUNTING CPAS LLCLubna Channo, Owner2100 15 Mile RoadSterling Heights, MI 48310248-894-7443A provider of tax and accounting services including payroll, bookkeeping and financial statement preparation.

THE EVENT PLANNER, INC.Dalia Atisha, Event Designer8515 Humming Bird DriveCommerce Township, MI 48382248-224-2514www.theeplanner.comA provider of meeting and event services for companies and individuals.

WILSON’S LIQUORWilson Sokana, Owner/President901 East 11 Mile RoadRoyal Oak, MI 48067249-398-4676A full service liquor and convenience store.

YONO’S IMAGINATION CINEMAGRAPHY & PHOTOGRAPHYRafal Yono, Owner41450 Ambercrest DriveSterling Heights, MI 48314248-688-5722A provider of cinemagraphy and photography services.

New Individual MembersWilliam J. MansourBashar Saroki

New Student MemberFadi Sankari

Ari Kresch1-800-LAW-FIRM

America is referred to as “the melting pot” where people of all nationalities share their gifts and create something greater than they could have created individually. The key to the success of the American model is communication. Without that critical communication component there is no melting pot and the advantages of diversity are not realized.

The Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce may as well be called the Chamber of Communication. This group of forward thinking entrepreneurs take every opportunity to enhance communication between opposing political factions as well as businesses owned by Jews, Muslims, Chaldeans and Christians. I am a proud member of this organization because they promote business between diverse ethnic groups. That in turn creates a win/win dynamic that trumps the baggage of misunderstanding that some of our ancestors have left behind.

WHY I AM A MEMBER

new & renewed members

members

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Renewed Corporate MembersBANK OF AMERICATiffany S. Douglas, Senior Vice President and Market Manager2600 West Big Beaver Road MI8-900-06-05Troy, MI 48084248-631-0347www.bankofamerica.comA full service financial institution, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market busi-nesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk manage-ment products and services.

DEAN FOODS/COUNTRY FRESHBill Riley, General Manager355 Mart South WestGrand Rapids, MI 49548616-233-2444www.enjoycountryfresh.comA leading food and beverage company in the United States and a European leader in branded plant-based foods and beverages.

MACOMB COUNTYStephen Cassin, Executive Direc-tor Department of Planning & Economic Development1 South Main Street, 7th FloorMount Clemens, MI 48043586-469-5285www.macombcountymi.govA municipality located in south-eastern Michigan that comprises the northeastern portion of the Detroit metropolitan area. With a land mass of 482 square miles, Macomb County ranks third in both population and state equal-ized value of all 83 counties in the state. Today, there are over 788,000 persons living within 27 municipalities in Macomb County including three of the 10 largest communities in Michigan: Warren (3rd), Sterling Heights (5th) and Clinton Township (10th). Current-ly, only 48% of Macomb County’s total land areas is urbanized.

MCLAREN-MACOMB HOSPITALBobette Dodge,1000 Harrington BoulevardMount Clemens, MI 48043586-493-3540www.mcrmc.org

A fully integrated health network, committed to qual-ity, evidence-based patient care and cost efficiency. The McLaren system includes 10 hospitals, am-bulatory surgery centers, imaging centers, freestanding dialysis centers, a regional network of cancer centers and providers, an employed primary care physician network, assisted living facilities, commercial and Medicaid HMOs, home health care and hospice, durable medical equipment, retail pharmacy services, and a wholly-owned medical malprac-tice insurance company. McLaren has 16,000 employees and more than 10,000 network physicians.

MICHIGAN LOTTERYSusan Matero101 East HillsdaleLansing, MI 48909517-335-6832www.michiganlottery.comThe official lottery of the State of Michigan that reported annual sales of $2.4 billion in fiscal 2012, and generated $770 million in net revenue for the state School Aid Fund, which supports public education programs through-out the state. Retailers received annual commissions of $172.1 million, while Michigan Lottery players collected prizes worth $1.36 billion.

SHERWOOD FOOD DISTRIBUTORSEarl Ishbia, CEO12499 Evergreen RoadDetroit, MI 48228313-659-7300www.sherwoodfoods.comA distributor that is one of the largest independent operators in the meat and food industry. The Company currently ships 16 million pounds of food products weekly on a fleet of over 250 trucks through a network of distribution centers in Atlanta, Cleveland, Detroit, Miami and Walton, Kentucky.

TOM HOLZER FORDNicole Falsetti, Customer Service Manager39300 West 10 Mile RoadFarmington Hills, MI 48335248-474-1234

www.holzerford.comAn auto dealership specializing in new Ford cars and trucks and all brands of pre-owned cars. Its service center can provide repairs and preventative maintenance for all makes and models.

VARNUM LAWMichael Romaya39500 High Pointe Boulevard, Suite 350Novi, MI 48375248-567-7400www.varnumlaw.comA full service-provider of legal counsel. Varnum clients represent a diverse range of business and legal interests including manu-facturers, financial institutions, health care providers, profession-al groups, municipalities, colleges and universities, school districts, developers, publishers, retailers, governmental units, transporta-tion, trade associations, charita-ble organizations, and utilities.

WIRELESS TOYZNate Hamama, President of Sales7499 Middlebelt RoadWest Bloomfield, MI 48322248-426-8200www.wirelesstoyz.comAs a leader in the wireless and satellite TV industries, Wireless Toyz is committed to offering its customers the largest variety of cellular and satellite services avail-able in one customer friendly lo-cation, staffed by knowledgeable and professional wireless experts. They carry most major brands and service providers.

WIRELESS VISION LLCSaber Ammori, President40700 Woodward Avenue, Suite 250Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304248-865-0900www.wirelessvision.comA retailer that operates almost 200 T-Mobile branded retail stores in 13 states, making the company the largest T-Mobile Exclusive Retailers in the country. Currently, Wireless Vision oper-ates stores in Michigan, Arizona, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Colo-rado, Indiana, Ohio, Minnesota, Georgia, Florida, Oklahoma and Wisconsin.

Renewed Business MembersECONO LODGEFaiq Konja32703 Stephenson HighwayMadison Heights, MI 48071248-583-7700www.econolodge.comA full service hotel with free con-tinental breakfast and premium movie channels.

ELITE ERRANDSMarcine Garmo, Owner28231 Peppermill RoadFarmington Hills, MI 48331248-798-4048www.EliteErrandsEtc.comA premier personal errand service trusted by many top businesses, community leaders, professional athletes, entertainers, and moms to help simplify their busy lives.

Safaa MacanyBank of America Home Loans

Joining the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce has made a great impact on my business networking opportunities. It’s also deepened the business relationship with the community as a whole.

WHY I AM A MEMBER

July 1, 2013 - October 10, 2013

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ELITE VALET PARKING, INC.Richard Abbo4301 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 180-B227West Bloomfield, MI 48323248-851-PARKwww.eliteparkingsolutions.comA provider of valet parking services and parking lot management services for corporate, hospitality clients and private parties throughout metro Detroit and southeast Michigan.

EMAD NAKKASH EYE CLINICEmad Nakkash22039 John R RoadHazel Park, MI 48030248-336-3937www.nakkasheye.comAn optical clinic featuring ophthalmology and optometry.

EVANS DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMSDavid Pierce, Executive Director, Global Development18765 Seaway DriveMelvindale, MI 48122313-388-3200www.evansdist.comA full service third party logistics company dedicated to providing customers with innovative and flexible supply chain management solutions.

EXCLUSIVE IMAGERYSaher Yaldo, Owner18942 Hayes StreetDetroit, MI 48205313-372-7440www.eisigns.comA provider of signs, banners, t-shirts and promotional items.

FARM BUREAU INSURANCESal Yaldo, Agent1275 West Square Lake RoadBloomfield Hills, MI 48302248-290-0614www.farmbureauinsurance-mi.com/Agent/Sal-Yaldo/An insurance provider offering business, home, auto, farm, health, and life insurance. Farm Bureau also offers retirement planning services.

FARMER JOHN FOOD CENTERSam Sattam, Owner9731 Harper AvenueDetroit, MI 48213313-921-0015www.farmerjohnmarket.comA full line supermarket.

FOOD PALACE SUPERMARKETRandy Kassab4809 East 7 Mile RoadDetroit, MI 48234313-892-1940A full service supermarket.

GASSO GROUP, LLCNajah Gasso, Managing Member20320 West 8 Mile RoadSouthfield, MI 48075248-353-4754A company that specializes in real estate holdings with a focus on shopping centers and hotels.

GAV & ASSOCIATES, INC.Ghassan Abdelnour31471 Northwestern Hwy., Suite 2Farmington Hills, MI 48334248-985-9101www.gavassociates.comAn architectural firm offering services to commercial, residential as well as industrial clients. GAV & Associates has experience providing architectural services to retail stores, office buildings, company headquarters, residential complexes and a plethora of other sites.

GREAT LAKES HOME INSPECTIONSaad Hasani, Owner39454 Augusta AvenueSterling Heights, MI 48313586-804-6252www.greatlakesfor homeinspections.comA company offering home inspection, condo inspection, commercial building inspection, apartment building inspection, and industrial building inspection services for all of southeast Michigan.

HERTZ SCHRAM, P.C.Jabran (Jay) Yasso, Partner1760 South Telegraph Road, Suite 200Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302248-335-5000www.hertzschram.comA full service law firm.

HURON VALLEY STATE BANKJack Shubitowski, President130 South Milford StreetMilford, MI 48381248-684-9626www.hvsb.comA full service community bank specializing in small business

lending, business deposit services and cash handling activities. We also provide consumer deposit and loan products.

HURRICANE GRILL & WINGSRon Asmar, Owner29852 Northwestern HighwaySouthfield, MI 48034248-996-8296www.hurricanewings.com/southfieldA beach themed restaurant specializing in chicken wings with a full bar.

INTRASTATE DISTRIBUTORS, INC.Tim Dabish, President6400 East Eight Mile RoadDetroit, MI 48234313-892-3000www.intrastatedistributors.comA beverage and snack distributor featuring Towne Club Soda, Jones Soda, Snapple and other brands.

JAPPAYA LAW, PLCShawn Jappaya7225 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 301West Bloomfield, MI 48322248-626-6800www.jappayalaw.comA tax law firm.

JARVIS PROPERTY RESTORATIONBill Jarvis, President/Owner41800 Executive DriveHarrison Township, MI 48045586-954-4700www.jarvisrestoration.comA family-owned and operated business with more than 35 years of experience restoring homes and businesses. With more than 10,000 structures restored, you can rest assured you and your property are in good hands. They pride themselves on personal and professional service.

JONNA CONSTRUCTION, LLCFrank Jonna39533 Woodward Ave., Suite 150Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304248-352-1550www.jonnacompanies.comA general contractor and construction management company. Their expertise in development, construction, leasing, and management has earned them an exemplary reputation in the industry

since their inception in 1965. Their portfolio consists of predominately hi-tech, office, and retail projects within Southeast Michigan.

KARAGOSIAN & SONS JEWELERS, INC.David Karagosian, Owner2266 Orchard Lake RoadSylvan Lake, MI 48320248-682-8573www.karagosian.comA full service jeweler featuring a vast collection of loose diamonds and colored stones to be set in any one of their wonderful ring, pendant, bracelet, and earring mountings.

LANDMARK COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE SERVICESJohn Kello27995 Halsted Road, Suite 150Farmington Hills, MI 48331248-488-2620www.landmarkcres.comA commercial real estate brokerage firm that is one of Michigan’s most experienced and highest volume. For more than 20 successful years, their team of veteran professionals has represented retail tenants, landlords, buyers and sellers in every facet of retail real estate. Throughout the State of Michigan, Landmark specializes in tenant representation, property acquisition, surplus disposition, leasing services and investment sales.

LUAY HADDAD MD, PCLuay Haddad, Psychiatrist5575 HaverhillWest Bloomfield, MI 48322313-745-4644A provider of psychiatric and mental health services.

LUXOR LIQUORClint Kassab10425 West McNichols RoadDetroit, MI 48221313-341-0071A grocery and liquor store.

new & renewed members

members

July 1, 2013 - October 10, 2013

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MACOMB COMMUNITY COLLEGEJeanne Nicol, Director of Communications14500 East 12 Mile RoadWarren, MI 48088586-445-7204www.macomb.eduA community college that provides learning experiences to more than 48,000 students annually and nationally ranks in the top two percent in the number of associate degrees awarded. It is the largest grantor of associate degrees in Michigan.

MATCHALDEAN.COMTheresa Sitto7 West Square Lake RoadBloomfield Hills, MI 48302248-758-2303www.matchaldean.comA match making service that strives to keep the Chaldean culture alive by introducing you to the most compatible Chaldean for you. This private and personalized service will match you with like-minded Chaldean singles you might not have the chance to meet otherwise.

MED FRESHLance Sitto, Owner41490 Grand River AvenueNovi, MI 48375248-374-4900www.medfreshcafe.comA full service Mediterranean cuisine restaurant.

MEP ENGINEERS, LLCSteve Metti, Principal30903 West 10 Mile Road, Suite BFarmington Hills, MI 48336248-488-9822www.mepmi.comAn engineering services provider to the mechanical, electrical and plumbing disciplines including major mechanical systems, HVAC design and construction and related support services.

MGM GRAND DETROITTasha Squires, Sales Manager1777 Third StreetDetroit, MI 48226313-465-8756www.mgmgranddetroit.comA hotel and casino with 4,000 of the latest slots and video poker, more than 90 table games, un-rivaled luxury rooms and suites, celebrity chef restaurants, the only resort-style spa in southeast Michigan and 30,000 square feet of meeting and convention space.

MORPOL INDUSTRIAL CORPORATION LIMITEDNofal Paulus32000 Northwestern Highway, Suite 172

Farmington Hills, MI 48334248-855-9320www.morpol.netAn engineering services company that provides services to the automotive, manufacturing and oil & gas industries.

MURRAY LIGHTING COMPANYLouie Abbo, Owner10227 West 8 Mile RoadDetroit, MI 48221313-341-0416www.murraylighting.comA provider of a range of electrical items and lighting fixtures including chandeliers, track lighting fixtures, sconces, fans and bathroom fixtures.

OAKLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGEJanet Roberts, Executive of Marketing2480 Opdyke RoadBloomfield Hills, MI 48304248-341-2020www.oaklandcc.eduA community college that is the largest in Michigan.

ONE SOURCE TALENTAnthony Toma, President2653 Industrial Row RoadTroy, MI 48084248-816-7900A service for the fashion and acting communities. One Source Talent maintains an interactive database of models, actors and clients looking to fulfill creative requests and needs. The goal of One Source Talent is to create cost-effective, working relationships between talent and clients via its interactive network.

OUTDOOR ACCENTSMark Garmo, Owner2100 Fyke DriveMilford, MI 48381248-366-3052www.outdooraccentsinc.comA full service landscape con-tractor. From the simple to the spectacular, you can rely on the extensive experience of Outdoor Accents for a landscape you are sure to love. In business since 1988, they have accumulated the resources and knowledge to insure efficient project manage-ment.

PARKWAY FOODSLouay Nona13210 East Jefferson AvenueDetroit, MI 48215313-823-2444A full line supermarket.

PENNA’S OF STERLINGTony Penna, President38400 Van Dyke RoadSterling Heights, MI 48312

586-978-3880www.pennasbanquets.comA banquet facility and restaurant that is elegant in design, sophisticated in service, and affordable in price.

PINNACLE MANAGEMENT GROUPSam Sandiha7031 Orchard Lake Rd., Suite 206West Bloomfield, MI 48322248-862-2844www.pinnaclepmg.comA provider of full-service hotel/motel management with a mission to operate each property from the owners’ standpoint. As owner/operator of many franchise hotels, PMG has the expertise and knowledge to efficiently operate, maintain, and improve performance for any type of hotel/motel.

PINNACLE PRINTING & PROMOTIONSAnn Reinman, Owner21421 Hilltop, Unit 12Southfield, MI 48033248-353-2266www.pinnacle-printing.comA provider of high quality printing, eye-popping full color copying and high impact advertising specialty items .

RKA PETROLEUM COMPANIESKerry Rehbine, Director of Commercial & Retail Sales28340 Wick RoadRomulus, MI 48174734-946-2199www.rkapetroleum.comA fuel distributor that specializes in gasoline, commercial fuels, governmental fuels, industrial and specialty fuels, E85, Ethanol, and Biodiesel. It currently operates in over 24 states across the United States.

SHARF CONSTRUCTIONDeleir Sesi, Vice President35502 Mound RoadSterling Heights, MI 48310586-722-7378www.sharfconstruction.comA construction company that specializes in custom residential and light commercial framing projects. It works closely with architects, structural engineers and high-end general contractors.

SHENANDOAH COUNTRY CLUBLee Sharkas, General Manager5600 Walnut Lake RoadWest Bloomfield, MI 48323248-683-6363www.shenandoahcc.netA private country club and banquet hall that specializes in private and public corporate events.

SUNNY MEDIA GROUPClarity Newhouse, President39209 Six Mile Road, Suite 165Livonia, MI 48152888-917-8669www.sunnymediagroup.comA full service ad agency located in Livonia, Michigan. Its advertising toolbox includes Internet advertising, television, video, radio, print, direct mail, email, mobile apps, text messaging, website design, brochures, marketing materials and signage for indoor and outdoor displays.

TRADEFIRST.COMNancy Forte23200 Coolidge HighwayOak Park, MI 48237248-544-1350www.tradefirst.comA privately-owned company that both maintains account records and promotes transactions for its mem-ber clients. These businesses buy and sell products and services from each other using an internal cur-rency. Businesses earn trade credits (instead of cash) that are deposited into their account. They then have the ability to purchase goods and services from other members utiliz-ing their trade credits.

TRANSWORLD TITLE COMPANY, LLCDouglas Proctor, Managing Member31000 Northwestern Highway, Suite 130Farmington Hills, MI 48334248-487-2626www.transworldtitle.comA real estate title company.

WARREN CONSOLIDATED SCHOOLSRobert Livernois, Superintendent31300 Anita DriveWarren, MI 48093586-698-4094www.wcskids.netA public school district that strives to achieve a level of excellence in teaching and learning, which enables all students to become knowledgeable, productive, ethical, and successful citizens.

Individual MembersFaisal AraboRichard AxMarkaz Al JaliaGary BlanckBruce CarrollSalim GassoRaad JajoKevin JappayaPaul MonaBrandon ShamounBrenda Shamoun

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Industry Outlook – Sept. 12 Michigan’s $18 billion travel industry was the focus of Sept. 12’s Industry Out-look at Regency Manor.

Dave Lorenz from Travel Michigan, better known by its consumer-facing name, Pure Michigan, provided an overview of opportunities in the state’s burgeoning hospitality sector. He also provided a history of the popular Pure Michigan campaign and gave attend-ees a sneak preview of the soon to be released new Detroit-themed Pure Michigan TV commercials. DTE Energy sponsored the event.

Quarterly Networking Meeting - July 31Nearly 100 members gathered for bowling and mingling at the Quarterly Networking Meeting that took place on Wednesday, July 31 at Emagine Theatre - Star Lanes in Royal Oak. It was co-hosted by Fire-Keepers Casino and Hotel.

sOCiaLs

Speed Networking – Aug. 14Thirty-six members exchanged business cards and leads at the chamber’s first speed networking event at Sam’s Club. Stay tuned for the next event scheduled for March. Details to come.

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The Chaldean Community Foundation (CCF) is the nonprofi t arm of the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce. In 2013, it has helped more than 13,000 refugees and other low-income

immigrants through the following programs.

REFUGEE ACCULTURATION SUSTAINABILITY AND TRAINING (RAST)—helps

refugees of the Iraq War and subsequent religious persecution to acculturate

and become less dependent on federal and state subsidies and services

PROJECT BISMUTHA—provides free or reduced cost healthcare to Iraqi

Christian and Chaldean refugees without medical insurance through

the Chaldean American Association for Health Professionals

REFUGEE MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES—supplies much-needed mental

health services to Iraqi refugees and others in Southeast Michigan

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (ESL)—teaches refugees English

through a partnership with Macomb Community College

CHALDEAN LOAN FUND—provides low-interest loans to help refugees

purchase a car

WAAD MURAD ADVOCACY FUND—offers a cash reward up to

$10,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the

assailant(s) of violent crimes perpetuated against businesspeople

BREAKING BARRIERS—provides assistance and advocacy to the disabled

and respite to caregivers

IMMIGRATION—helps refugees fi le applications to become naturalized citizens

HOUSING—provides long-term housing solutions for refugees

Visit www.chaldeanchamber.com to view the 2014 calendar of events and www.chaldeanfoundation.org to receive news about the CCF’s upcoming

annual appeal and capital campaign.

Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce and Chaldean Community Foundation

29850 Northwestern Highway, Suite 250Southfi eld, MI 48034248-996-8340

www.chaldeanchamber.com

Chaldean Community Foundation – Sterling Heights Offi ce

4171 15 Mile Road Sterling Heights, MI 48310

586-722-7253

www.chaldeanfoundation.org

CHALDEAN COMMUNITYFOUNDATION

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seCtiOnChaldean American Chamber of Commerce29850 Northwestern Highway, Suite 250Southfield, MI 48034

PRSRT STDUS POSTAGE

PAIDLANSING MI

PERMIT NO. 75

METRO DETROIT’S DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO THE CHALDEAN AMERICAN BUSINESS COMMUNITY

TO RESERVE YOUR AD CALL 248-996-8340

SPECIAL RATES FOR MEMBERS! EARLY BIRD DISCOUNTS!

CALL 248-996-8340!

COMING JANUARY, 2014

CHALDEAN COMMERCE2013 ANNUAL REPORT + 2014 MEMBER DIRECTORY