Spring 2008 Chaldean Commerce Newsletter

HOUSEHOLD SURVEY RESULTSCASCA UPDATESPOTLIGHTON COMERICA

INSIDE

OH,WHAT A NIGHTFifth Annual Awards Dinner

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The newsletter of the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce

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CHALDEAN COMMERCECHALDEAN COMMERCEThe newsletter of the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce

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CALENDAR 4 Mark the Dates

MESSAGE 4 From the Chairman

5 From the Executive Director

BRIEFINGS 6 CASCA in WashingtonKnollenberg Steps UpPutting Refugees to WorkWorkshop Examines New Business TaxMembers in the News

COVER STORY 10 Third Annual Awards Dinner

RESEARCH 12 Results of the 2007 Household Survey

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 15 Comerica Bank

SOCIALS 16 Kwame Kilpatrick and the City of DetroitWomen’s Committee NetworksAmbassador Imad Moustapha and Syria’s refugeesUSAID Update

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CALENDAR

mark the dates

It was a wonderful feeling at our Annual Awards Dinner on April11 to stand at the podium and look out at the crowd at

Shenandoah Country Club. And what a crowd it was! Nearly 900people honored us with their presence that night. As always, it wasa sell-out crowd and I remain truly humbled by the overwhelmingsupport our chamber receives.

The evening was notable on many levels – not the least ofwhich was announcing our 1,000th member. Achieving such amilestone in just five years was an ambitious goal but I neverdoubted we’d make it. Now, as Toy Story’s Buzz Lightyear says, toinfinity and beyond!

The dinner was made possible thanks to nearly 40 sponsors,including our Presenting Sponsor, Comerica, and our Gold Sponsors: theCentral Intelligence Agency, Chrysler, Country Fresh, DTE Energy, GeneralMotors and Wireless Toyz. Many thanks to the hard-working DinnerCommittee — which went through countless gallons of coffee and plates ofbagels in morning meetings held over the past year — headed by Amal Berry-Brown, Rocky Husaynu and Raad Kathawa.

The chamber is proud to support CASCA, the Chaldean Assyrian SyriacCouncil of America. The organization is dedicated to advocating for the rightsof Christians and other minorities in Iraq and finding resources to developthe Nineveh Plains, a region in Northern Iraq to assist in the settlement ofChaldeans, Assyrians, Syriacs and other minorities in their ancestral areas.

CASCA used the recent occasion of Pope Benedict’s U.S. visit to join otherhumanitarian groups in Washington, D.C. to spread the word about the suf-fering and persecution of Iraq’s Christian minorities. We have a full report inthis issue for you.

Our Annual Dinner is behind us, but we are in no way resting on ourlaurels. As you’ll see on the left, we have a number of special occasionsplanned including one of the year’s favorite, the Annual Golf Outing. I lookforward to seeing you at our events, and continue to thank you for yourmembership and support.

Dave Nona

from the chairman

MESSAGE

Dave Nona

MAY 14QUARTERLY NETWORKINGMEETINGIt’s a night of fun and fellowshipat Bavarian BMW in ShelbyTownship. We’ll enjoy compli-mentary cocktails and horsd’oeuvres beginning at 6 p.m. Call(248) 538-3700 for information orto reserve your spot, or visitwww.chaldeanchamber.com.

MAY 21MICHIGAN BUSINESS TAXWorkshop explains all about the state’s controversial new tax. 6 p.m., Shenandoah CountryClub. Call (248) 865-1304 for details.

JUNE 19ANNUAL GOLF OUTINGCountry Fresh presents the Fifth Annual Golf Outing atShenandoah Country Club in WestBloomfield. Registration begins at11 a.m. and the shotgun scramblestarts at noon. The day includes18 holes, lunch, dinner, cocktails,cigars, a silent auction, prizes anda free car for a hole in one!Sponsors are welcome. Call (248) 538-3700 for information orvisit www.chaldeanchamber.com for details.

AUGUST 9-10CHALDEAN FESTIVALThe Third Annual Festival takesplace in Southfield with food, liveentertainment, merchants, attrac-tions for the kids and so muchmore. For sponsorship or boothinformation, call (248) 538-3700 orvisit www.chaldeanchamber.com.

OCTOBER 16THIRD ANNUAL BUSINESS CONFERENCE: Shenandoah Country Club.Details to come!

mission statement

The 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.


M A Y - J U N E 2 0 0 8 5

It’s hard to believe we are well into spring and before we know it, will be meetingon the links of Shenandoah Country Club for our Fifth Annual Golf Outing on

June 19. The golf outing is one of my favorite events each year, but we have lotsmore in store than just bogeys and mulligans.

As you will see on page 10, our Fifth Annual Awards Dinner was a huge success.It is so gratifying on a personal, as well as professional, level to see the support ourchamber has earned. We vow to earn that trust every day.

It was a busy winter leading up to the dinner on April 11. It was fascinating tohost Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick to get his thoughts on the importance ofChaldean-owned stores in Detroit. The text message scandal was just breaking at thetime but the mayor was a true professional that night. Read about it on page 16.

It was sweet success all around when the Women’s Business and ProfessionalCommittee gathered at Chocolates by Renee for a networking event on March 13. Turn to page17 for details and pictures.

We were honored to meet with Imad Mustapha, the ambassador to Syria, over dinner onMarch 14. Syria holds the largest number of Iraqi refugees, many of whom are Chaldean — asituation the ambassador called “truly sad.” See page 16 for more.

Also on the subject of Iraq, we hosted officials from USAID for an update on the rebuildingof the country on March 31. Details are on page 17.

And now we look forward, planning a host of events to take us into the summer and beyond. First up is our Quarterly Networking Meeting on May 14 at Bavarian BMW in Shelby

Township. We hope you’ll join us for an evening of fun and fellowship —while drooling overthe gorgeous cars in the showroom.

Read all about the golf outing on page 20, then brace yourself for our biggest event of theyear: The Chaldean Festival on August 9-10. This will be the third year we put on the festival,and it continues to grow — much to the delight of the thousands of people who come to eat,shop, play games and dance.

It will be an eventful summer, because we’re also starting up the Chaldean Business Survey.This is the second phase of the Chaldean Census we’ve been working on with Walsh Collegeand the United Way. Preliminary results of the Household Survey can be seen on page 12. Thebusiness portion of the project will demonstrate what we all know — Chaldeans are a majorforce in the business world.

Martin Manna

Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce30095 Northwestern Hwy.Suite 102Farmington Hills, MI 48334Phone: (248) 538-3700Fax: (248) 932-9161www.chaldeanchamber.com

PublisherChaldean American Chamber of CommerceInterlink Media

Chaldean Commerce is published five times a year by the Chaldean AmericanChamber of Commerce

Martin Manna

from the executive director

EditorJoyce Wiswell

Art DirectorsAlex LumelskyJoe Sesi

Graphic DesignSKY Creative, Inc.


CASCA in WashingtonThe Chaldean Assyrian Syriac Council ofAmerica (CASCA) is making real progress as itcontinues to advocate on behalf of Iraq’sChristian refugees. Several chamber membersjoined CASCA Executive Director Jackie Bejanin April in Washington, D.C.,to educate lawmakers on theperilous situation facing bothrefugees and the nation‘s inter-nally displaced. The visit coin-cided with the arrival of PopeBenedict, who has taken manyopportunities to remind theworld about Iraq’s Christians.

A historic event was heldon April 15 – the inauguralreception for the brand-newHouse Caucus on ReligiousMinorities in the Middle East.This new caucus, headed byRepresentatives Anna Eshoo(D-CA) and Frank Wolf (R-VA), will surely help the causeof Iraqi refugees. Additionalmembers include Joe Knollenberg, who contin-ues to do a wonderful job for his constituency.

CASCA held a briefing for caucus mem-bers a few days later to detail the plight ofIraq’s Christians and other minorities. Thenumbers are sobering: Five million Iraqishave been displaced by the war, of which

2.2 million are refugees. Some 20-22 per-cent of these are Christian, who face theadditional horror of religious persecution intheir homeland. There are also 2.8 millioninternally displaced in Iraq, many who arefleeing to the north where they receive nosupport from their government, NGOs or

U.S. agencies.CASCA also used its

week in Washington to meetwith numerous lawmakersand officials from the StateDepartment and theDepartment of Defense.CASCA also attended IraqDay, an all-day Iraq Forum atGeorge WashingtonUniversity’s Institute forMiddle East Studies; and theNational Catholic PrayerBreakfast, where Joe Kassabof the Chaldean Federationof America — one of thechamber’s Humanitarians ofthe Year — delivered aprayer in Aramaic.

Bejan believes CASCA‘s efforts wereworthwhile. “We wanted to register our stats– 40 bombed churches; 12 members of theclergy kidnapped or killed; and a long list oflay people, ordinary Christians who havebeen brutally tortured, threatened, kid-napped, raped or killed,” she said.

Knollenberg Steps UpThe sorry situation of Iraq’s Christian refugeeswas raised by Congressman Joe Knollenbergduring a Senate Foreign Relations Committeemeeting on April 8 during which U.S.Ambassador to Iraq Ryan Crocker gave testimo-ny on the Iraq War. Crocker did not, however,specifically address Christians in his remarks.

“I know from first-hand reports howmuch Iraqi Christians are will-ing to help themselves … ifthey are given the chance. It istime for the United States tohelp them,” Knollenberg said.

“Ambassador Crocker evi-dently understood the plightof religious minorities andwe’re hopeful and confidenthe’ll take action to address the concerns weand other members raised,” saidKnollenberg spokesman Nate Bailey.

Putting Refugees to WorkThe Chaldean Chamber is pleased to behelping newly arrived Iraqi refugees findwork. More than 300 refugees are in need ofjobs. These people have a strong work ethicand are more than ready to pull their weightand contribute to their new country. Mostneed transportation at this time.

If you can offer employment, please callthe chamber at (248) 538-3700.

Workshop Examines New Business TaxThe new Michigan Business Tax — whichreplaced the long-hated Single Business Tax— is turning out to come with its own shareof controversy and claims of unfairness. TheChaldean Chamber and the Bank of Michiganpresent a timely workshop — Everything YouShould Know About the New MichiganBusiness Tax That They Forgot to Tell You — onMay 21 at Shenandoah Country Club. The sem-inar, which runs from 6-7:30 p.m., is presentedin conjunction with Kullen & Kassab P.C.;Giarmarco, Mullins & Horton, P.C.; Martin,Arrington, Desai & Meyers, P.C.; UHY AdvisorsInc.; Shimoun, Yaldo & Associates, P.C.; andCummings, McClorey, Davis & Acho. Registerby calling Bianca Curioca at (248) 865-1304.

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BRIEFINGS

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Five million Iraqishave been displacedby the war, of which 2.2 million arerefugees. Some 20-22 percent ofthese are Christian,who face the additional horror ofreligious persecutionin their homeland.

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Frank Jonna, the Chaldean Chamber’sexecutive vice chairman, was named aDiversity Champion by Crain’s DetroitBusiness in its April 14 issue. Crain’scalled Jonna “a real estate success story”and noted that he “gives generously” tocharities funneled through theChaldean Chamber. Jonna is the CEOof Jonna Companies and also sits on theboards of Catholic Central High Schooland the Henry Ford Health Foundation.

Joseph Sesi has joined InterlinkMedia as a graphics artist. Sesi alsodesigns ads for The Chaldean News andother clients, and is well-known in thecommunity as a popular disc jockey atweddings, parties and special events.

Papa Romano’s, which recently pur-chased Mr. Pita, has grown again. Thefirm has scooped up Stucchi’s IceCream, which has a manufacturing facil-ity in Saline and operates 12 retail out-lets. Papa Romano’s has nearly 60 loca-tions in Metro Detroit and Mr. Pita has35. Chairman and CEO Casey Askarsaid co-branding, in which both brandsare offered under one roof — will con-tinue, and consumers can expect to seeStucchi’s ice cream added to the mix atsome stores. Stucchi’s products include76 flavors of ice cream, 68 varieties offrozen yogurt and nine sorbets. A newholding company, Stucchi’s ProductsLLC, has been established and Askar hasbeen named its CEO.

The Law Firm of Kupelian Ormond& Magy, P.C. is pleased to announcethat David M. Blau has joined thefirm. Blau has been practicing law since1996 and will work in the commerciallitigation, real estate, business andbankruptcy law practice areas. He hasexperience representing builders, sub-contractors, and suppliers in the filingand foreclosure of construction liensand payment bond claims, and repre-senting creditors and Chapter 7 bank-ruptcy Trustees in bankruptcy matters.Blau is a member of the State Bar ofMichigan, Oakland County BarAssociation – Real Estate Committee,Federal Bar Association, AmericanBankruptcy Institute, and InternationalCouncil of Shopping Centers.

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Members In The News

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2008 Chamber Board of DirectorsCHAIRMANDave NonaPartner, Triangle Development

EXECUTIVE VICE CHAIRMANFrank JonnaCEO, Jonna Companies

SECOND VICE CHAIRMANRocky HusaynuPresident, Professional Insurance Planners

TREASURERSharon HannawaMortgage Consultant, The Prime Financial Group

SECRETARYSandra Hanna Chemist, NSF International

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR & EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERSaad HajjarCEO, Advanced Technology Systems

LEGAL COUNSELRon AchoPartner, Cummings, McClorey, Davis & Acho PLC

DirectorsPaul AskerPartner, Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith

Kevin JappayaSales Associate, Thomas A. Duke Company

Raad KathawaOwner, Ryan’s Foods

Tony KonjaPresident, Artistic Outdoor Services

Mike KozaPresident, Group 10 Management

Anthony MonaVice President, Investments, UBS Financial Services

Jason NajorPresident, Super Fair Cellular

Bassam SalmanPresident, Apollo Building Company

Amar Toma

Chamber StaffExecutive Director Martin Manna

Director, Operations and EventsLisa Kalou

ControllerPaul Alraihani

2008 Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce Partners

Membership AmbassadorJibran Manna

Art DirectorJoe Sesi

Administrative AssistantTiffany Haio


New and Renewed MembersNew Corporate MembersA & M HOSPITALITY, INC.A & M Hospitality is a privately owned cor-poration established in 1992 by AkramNamou and Malik AbdulNoor. The companyprovides management services to a varietyof hotels under different brands through-out Michigan. Management, training anddevelopment services for hospitality prop-erties include recruiting, human resourcesmanagement, benefits and compensations,revenue management, franchisor relations,brand management, public relations, hotelperformance analysis, payroll management,information technology management andcoordination of relations with financialinstitutions. 24725 Greenfield Road, Southfield, MI 48075

BAVARIAN BMW/AUDI OF ROCHESTER HILLSBavarian BMW offers two locations — theoriginal Bavarian Motor Village inEastpointe, a certified pre-owned center;and the new state-of-the-art retail centerin Shelby Township. Bavarian’s businessreputation has been built on the care andservice given to customers — customer sat-isfaction is always the highest priority. Thefirm also includes Audi of Rochester Hills,which offers new and pre-owned vehiclesas well as parts and service. Audi ofRochester Hills is committed to providingthe highest levels of customer service.45550 Dequindre Road, Shelby Township,MI 48317; 45441 Dequindre Road,Rochester, MI 48307

New Business MembersADP SALES RECRUITER, SANDY TOMA FARIDA With nearly $8 billion in revenues andmore than 600,000 clients, ADP is one ofthe world’s largest providers of businessoutsourcing solutions. ADP offers thewidest range of HR, payroll, tax and bene-fits administration solutions from a singlesource. 16901 Michigan Avenue,Dearborn, MI 48126

LAW OFFICES OF AMER HAKIM & ASSOCIATES, PC, AMER HAKIM Legal Advice and services in business trans-actions, real estate, personal injury, crimi-nal defense, family law and immigration.30500 Van Dyke, Warren, MI 48093; 6842 Park Avenue, Allen Park, MI 48101

CENTRAL ALARM SIGNAL, ROBERT HAKIMThe number one choice for custom-designed security solutions for local,national and international business andresidential demands has been providing“peace of mind” since 1969. 13400 W.Seven Mile Road, Detroit, MI 48235

ENTERTAINMENT EXPRESS, PATRICK MIFSUD The premier provider for tickets and lim-ousines in the greater Metro Detroit areaprovides limousines, shuttles and busesthat seat between one and forty people.6986 Telegraph road, Dearborn Heights,MI 48127

INSURANCE ADVISORS, INC., ZIAD JARBO An independent agency that offers themost choices of coverages, premiums andcarriers in all areas of risk managementand financial planning. 8884 CommerceRoad, Commerce Township, MI 48382

CUSTOM MILLWORK AND CABINET,HYTHAM ALJIDAManufacturer and Installer of fine customcabinetry and carpentry for business andresidences. 21820 Wyoming Place, Oak Park, MI 48237

EDUCATIONAL OUTFITTERS, MAY SITTO Offers school uniforms and dress codeapparel for students from kindergartenthrough 12th grade at private, parochial,Christian and public schools. 43072 Sandstone, Novi, MI 48377

ERADICO SERVICES, BRENT BARANSK Respected pest control firm effectivelyeliminates mosquitoes, termites and otherpests. Also offers lawn, tree and Christmasdécor services. 41169 Vincenti Court, Novi, MI 48375

HUTTENLOCHER GROUP, WILLIAM THEILE II An independent insurance agency thatmeets clients’ personal, business and riskmanagement needs. 1007 W. Huron Street,Waterford, MI 48328

ITALMODA FURNITURE, BILL BAHOORA Unique furniture store that offers manyone-of-a-kind items as well as interiorconsulting, designer referral, and custommanufacturing services to the profession-al interior design and architecture mar-kets. 32968 Woodward Avenue, Royal Oak, MI 48073

MARTIN & SNYDER, GEORGE DAIZA The largest candy and tobacco distributorin the Tri-County carries more than 8,000products and directly or indirectly servicessome 2,000 customers. 8880 Hubbell,Detroit, MI 48224

METROPOLITAN TITLE COMPANY, PATRICIA MEADOWS Proactive professionals provide “one-stopshopping” for all real estate transactionsincluding title search, title insurance andtax deferred exchange. 39400 WoodwardAvenue, Suite 135, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304

NATIONAL HEALTH PARTNERS, INC.,FREDERICK WOLF A leading national healthcare savingsorganization that provides unique discounthealthcare membership programs to unin-sured and underinsured people through anational healthcare savings network called“CARExpress.” 120 Gibraltar Road, Suite 107, Horsham, PA 19044

NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL FINANCIALNETWORK, CHRISTOPHER ABBO Provides expert guidance on insurance,investment products and services, retire-ment and estate planning. 901 Wilshire Drive, Troy, MI 48084

NAPA ORCHARD LAKE AUTOMOTIVECENTER, PETER MONA A full-service automotive center for all carcare needs including preventive mainte-nance. They service imports and handleminor service all the way up to enginereplacement. Shuttle service available.28799 Orchard Lake Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48334

POWERHOUSE GYMS INTERNATIONAL,HENRY DABISH The fastest-growing gym licensing organiza-tion in the world, with more than 300 out-lets, is distinguished by an unsurpassed moti-vating atmosphere, knowledgeable staff andpremier exercise equipment. 24835 HalstedRoad, Farmington Hills, MI 48335

VALASSIS (FORMERLY ADVO), MICHAEL A. FRAME Offers a wide range of marketing servicesto consumer packaged goods manufactur-ers, retailers, technology companies andother customers with operations in theUnited States, Europe, Mexico and Canada.8200 Haggerty Road, Belleville, MI 48111

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V I E W A L I S T I N G


WALTER’S SHOPPING PLACE, FRANK AYAR A convenience store offering fine and vin-tage wine, a large selection of liquor, fulllottery services and a variety of sundry andgrocery items. 12197 Conant Street,Hamtramck, MI 48212

New Non-Profit MembersCHALDEAN FEDERATION OF AMERICA,MICHAEL GEORGE The Chaldean Chamber’s 2007Humanitarians of the Year help protect thelegal and civil rights of all Chaldean-American citizens, advocate for refugees ofthe Iraq War and provide scholarships forhigher education. 30777 NorthwesternHighway, Farmington Hills, MI 48334

MANRESA JESUIT RETREAT HOUSE, HUGH BUCHANAN A place of quiet, peace and prayer thatseeks to help people grow in their spirituallife with workshops, individual, conferenceand group retreats based on the SpiritualExercises of St. Ignatius Loyola. 1390Quarton, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304

New Individual MembersALEX AYARNORMAN KIRIAKUZ

Renewed Corporate Members5/3 BANK, BYNA ELLIOTT1000 Town Center, Southfield, MI 48076

EPOCH CATERING, LLC, JIM DAVIS 27145 Sheraton Drive, Novi, MI 48377

PLATINUM WIRELESS, JOSEPH TOMINNA10435 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90025

WORLD OF ERHARD, LESLIE RHODES38700 Grand River Avenue, Farmington Hills, MI 48335

Renewed Partner MemberFOX REALTY, JOSEPH ATTO2150-B Franklin Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302

Renewed Business MembersANTONE, CASGRANDE & ADWERS, P.C., N. PETER ANTONE 31555 W. 14 Mile Road, Suite 100,Farmington Hills, MI 48334

ARTISTIC OUTDOORS, TONY KONJA31800 Northwestern Highway, Suite 140,Farmington Hills, MI 48334

KARLA ATCHOO & ASSOCIATES, INC.,KARLA ATCHOO 6775 Daly Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48322

CHOCOLATES BY RENEE, STEPHANIE ACHO-TARTONI118 E. Main Street, Northville, MI 48167

DKI INC., PHILLIP MANSOUR 6346 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 16, WestBloomfield, MI 48322

INVESTICO DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, NED HAKIM 22580 Telegraph Road, Southfield, MI 48034

KENSINGTON INN, GEORGE & KEVIN JAPPAYA 124 Holiday Lane, Howell, MI 48843

LUDWIG & SEELEY, INC., RICHARD LUDWIG 29580 Northwestern Highway, Suite 110,Southfield, MI 48034

MARQUIS FOODSERVICE, INC., ZINA GEORGE 172 John Hix, Westland, MI 48186

MBN TV & RADIO, WALLY JADAN 25835 Southfield Road, Suite 200,Southfield, MI 48075

NEIGHBORHOOD MARKET ASSOCIATION, AUDAY ARABO 8923 La Mesa Boulevard, La Mesa, CA 91941

PARKWOOD PROPERTIES, JOHN KHAMI 5364 Cheltenham Drive, Troy, MI 48098

PRECISION CONCRETE USA, INC., MARK ASMAR 45700 W. 12 Mile Road, Novi, MI 48377

PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES, SALAH ZOMA 220 Bagley, Suite 930, Detroit, MI 48226

SECURITY FINANCIAL SERVICES, KENNY ZAIR 23999 W. 10 Mile Road, Suite 100,Southfield, MI 48037

CITY OF SOUTHFIELD, ROCHELLE FREEMAN 26000 Evergreen Road, PO Box 2055,Southfield, MI 48034-2055

TAORELLO’S MARKET PLACE, RAAD KELLO 1007 E. Grandriver Avenue, Brighton, MI 48116

THE LARK, ADRIAN LARK 6430 Farmington Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48322

TINELLE PROPERTIES, RONNIE ASMAR 18700 W. 10 Mile Road, Suite 200,Southfield, MI 48075

TONER INK & MORE, MARSHA (SHAMOUN) VENET 37665 Five Mile Road, Livonia, MI 48154

TRADEFIRST.COM, NANCY CLAVEL FORTE23200 Coolidge Highway, Oak Park, MI 48237

UNITED PRINTING, FRANK MANNA10800 W. Nine Mile Road, Oak Park, MI 48237

VICTORY LIQUOR, AVIN YELDA 16144 W. Warren Avenue, Detroit, MI 48228

WHITEHALL REAL ESTATE INTERESTS, GARY STEVEN JONNA 27750 Middlebelt, Suite 100, Farmington Hills, MI 48334

WORLDWIDE MERCHANT SERVICES, JAMES ESSHAKI 640 N. Old Woodward, Suite 102,Birmingham, MI 48009

Renewed Individual MembersGEORGE ASKERRANDY AWDISHED BABBIERANDALL DENHAHETHER JONNA-FRAYER INSAM “SUE” KATTULAZUHER QONJAKARL SENAWI

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G O F O U R M E M B E R S A T W W W . C H A L D E A N C H A M B E R . C O M


Shenandoah Country Club was packedon April 11 as nearly 900 peopledonned their finest for the chamber’s

Fifth Annual Awards Dinner. It was a won-derful event thanks to the efforts of the hard-working Dinner Committee, chaired byAmal Berry-Brown, Rocky Husaynu andRaad Kathawa, and the chamber’s director ofoperations and events, Lisa Kalou.

Our master of ceremonies was the popu-lar Mojo of the Mojo in the Morning radioprogram on WKQI 95.5 FM. Mojo was a gra-

cious and comical host and did a perfect jobkeeping everyone interested in the program.

We were happy to pay special tribute toDean Foods/Country Fresh, which hasshowed unparalleled support to theChaldean community. The firm’s dairy rebateprogram with Chaldean retailers will bring$1 million to community groups and chari-ties by next year. General Manager JerryShannon, a good friend to the chamber, wason hand to accept the award.

Joe and Jack Barbat were the well-

deserved Businesspersons of the Year. Thebrothers founded Wireless Toyz in 1995 tosell wireless pagers and quickly saw thepotential of a new product called the cellphone. Today there are more than 190Wireless Toyz locations operating in 22 states.

A highlight of the evening was recog-nizing the Humanitarians of the Year: BasilBakal, Michael George and Joseph Kassabof the Chaldean Federation of America.The CFA has brightened the lives of count-less Chaldeans both in the United States

1 0 C H A L D E A N C O M M E R C E

Oh, What a NightFifth Annual Awards Dinner

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OOuurr TThhoouussaannddtthh MMeemmbbeerr!!Welcome to Akram Namou, whohas the distinction of being theChaldean Chamber’s 1,000th mem-ber. Namou, who has more than25 years in the hotel business,owns 73 hotels. He is well knownin the community for spearhead-ing humanitarian efforts andhelping support Iraqi refugees.

Namou was feted at the AwardsDinner with a gift bag of goodies fromComerica Bank, a one-year supply of icecream from Country Fresh, and a gift bas-ket donated by Vineyard’s Marketplace.

COVER STORY

AkramNamou


and abroad, and its Adopt-A-Refugee-Family program has made great strides inhelping the unfortunate refugees of theIraq War. In March, more than 1,350refugees were assisted and more than$423,000 in donations were sent overseasthrough the CFA program.

While the CFA men were acceptingtheir award, they had a happy surprisewhen Mike Housey of National Wine and

Spirit presented a check for $64,000.Among those in attendance were digni-

taries including U.S. Congressman JoeKnollenberg, State Senate Majority MikeBishop, State Speaker of the House AndyDillon, State Senator Roger Kahn, StateRepresentative Andy Meisner, StateRepresentative Chuck Moss, Wayne CountryExecutive Robert Ficano, Southfield MayorBrenda Lawrence and West Bloomfield

Supervisor David Flaisher, among others. The dinner would not have been possi-

ble without the support of the entire cham-ber membership and our nearly 40 sponsors.Comerica was once again the PresentingSponsor and Gold Sponsors were the CentralIntelligence Agency, Chrysler, Country Fresh,DTE Energy, Fifth Third Bank, GeneralMotors, and Wireless Toyz. Thanks to all foran unforgettable night!

M A Y - J U N E 2 0 0 8 11

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Results of the 2007 Household SurveyThe Detroit metropolitan area contains the largest single concentration of Chaldeans,Assyrians and Syriacs1 in the Western Hemisphere - most of them immigrants or thedescendants of immigrants from Iraq. The approximate number of Chaldeans in thearea has been estimated for sometime to be in the range of 100,000 – 120,000. OtherChaldean communities are located in Chicago, suburban San Diego and Turlock,California. Most Detroit-area Chaldeans currently live in the areas nearest to the sixChaldean Churches. In addition to the six, there is also an Assyrian Church in Warrenand a Syriac Church in Farmington Hills. The once thriving Chaldean community inDetroit, in the vicinity of John R and 7 Mile Road, has experienced a steady decreaseover the last decade, with many relocating to communities in Oakland and Macombcounties. These growing suburban concentrations are primarily in southern OaklandCounty, including Southfield, Oak Park, Troy, Farmington, Farmington Hills,Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills and West Bloomfield. The recent addition of St. GeorgeChurch in Shelby Township is evidence of the growing Chaldean presence in MacombCounty, concentrated in Warren, Sterling Heights, Utica and the townships of Shelbyand Macomb. In the Detroit area resides the largest single concentration outside theMiddle East of persons identifying themselves as “Chaldeans.”

Detroit’s Chaldean community has endured a particularly difficult period followingthe Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in August 1990, and continuing through the period of theGulf War and Iraq’s attempts at reconstruction. The new Iraq War initiated by the U.S.in 2003 has served to exacerbate this situation, and has brought increased immigrationof Chaldeans from Iraq into the Detroit community as they flee conditions in war-tornIraq. The Detroit community has also revitalized its Chaldean heritage. Their visibilityas a result of the wars has made Chaldeans more aware that most Americans identifythem with Iraq and the Arab world. This realization has made many Chaldeans moreanxious to emphasize their unique historical, linguistic and religious heritage. This isreflected in increased Chaldean language classes and a greater emphasis on religiouseducation for children.

The Chaldean Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with other local Chaldeanorganizations, came to the decision that a survey of the community would be beneficialas a way of both gaining a better understanding of the community and of obtaining abetter estimate of the actual number of Chaldeans in the Detroit area. An advisorygroup was formed in 2006 and Dr. Marla Scafe from Walsh College and Kurt Metzgerfrom the United Way for Southeastern Michigan were retained to assist in the develop-ment of the survey instrument, the survey methodology and the analysis of results.

The first half of 2007 was spent refining the questionnaire and developing mailinglists. Contacts were made with each of the area’s Chaldean churches, as well as othersources, in order to develop what could be considered a comprehensive list. The firstwave of questionnaire mailing occurred in the May-June period of 2007. Due to asomewhat low response rate, and the concern that there may have been some confusionwith the information provided regarding the data for questionnaire return, a secondmailing was conducted during August and early September. Questionnaire data entrycontinued through the end of 2007.

Chaldean Household Survey funded through the generous support from Charter One Bank and the DTE Energy Foundation.

RESEARCHSI

ZE O

F HO

USEH

OLD

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

0%5%

10%15%

20%25%

PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL HOUSEHOLDS

5.8%

18.6%

13.4%

22.7%

23.3%

11.1%

3.5

1.5%

.1%

.1%

Average Chaldean household size SURVEY:

3.94 persons2000 CENSUS:

4.20 persons

Average tri-county household size

2.58 persons

HOUSEHOLD SIZE


M A Y - J U N E 2 0 0 8 13

Preliminary Results2

• The Total Population of the Chaldean community in the tri-county3 is approximately 117,000.

• Overall, 73% of households are business owners.

• The average size of Chaldean households in the survey was 3.94 persons. The averagesize of Chaldean households in the 2000 Census was 4.20 persons. The average size oftri-county households in general is 2.58 persons. It is clear that over half of all house-holds contain either 4 or 5 persons. The next most frequent arrangement is a 2-personhousehold. We received one questionnaire from a household of 9, and two with 10-person households.

Family households represented 94 percent of the households responding to the survey.The 2000 Census measured this ratio at 91 percent, while families in the general popu-lation represented only 67 percent of all households. The average size of Chaldean fam-ilies was 4.13 persons.

• The Chaldean population is younger than the general population. This is a commoncharacteristic for immigrant populations, as new immigrants tend to concentrate in theyounger, working-age categories and have higher birth rates.

• Educational attainment (years of school completed) was collected from all respondents.An analysis of the primary household members only – defined as the householder (person in whose name house or apartment is owned or rented) and spouse – shows an increase in educational attainment over what was reported in the 2000 Census4.

• When asked for place of birth, survey respondents demonstrated a large share of firstgeneration immigrants, as 42.1 percent listed Iraq as birth country and another 1.4 percent listed another country outside the United States. The majority of respondents –55.3 percent – reported being born in Michigan, with another 1.2 percent reportinganother State.

• Almost two-thirds of respondents, 66.2 percent, reported speaking Chaldean – eithersolely or with other languages. Only 8 percent reported speaking Chaldean exclusively,while almost twice that – 15.7 percent – reported speaking English exclusively. Thenext most often mentioned language was Arabic, listed by 44 percent of respondents.

• Business Ownership – While we continue to analyze the data coming from this question,5

the initial results on business ownership attained from the 1,498 household respondents (a question asked of the household, not individuals) yielded the following results:

Continued on page 14

AGE

AGE

under18

18-24

25-44

45-64

65and

older

0%5%

10%15%

20% 30%25% 35%

PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL POPULATION

The number ofChaldeans under age 25 exceeds that of the general population.

chaldeans

general population


EDUCATION

RESEARCH


Overall, 73% of households are business owners

From the 1,498 household respondents, Chaldeans own from one to as many as 24 businesses.

351 convenience stores are owned

334 rental properties/real estate holdings

138 supermarkets

128 gas stations

110 cell phone stores

91 hotels

44 restaurants

42 insurance companies

Other business types, coming in small numbers, include contracting/construction, pizza shops, wholesale businesses, law offices, accounting firms, hair salons, and real estate agencies

56.9% own 1 business

20.4% own 2 businesses




• Chaldean households average 3 vehicles – cars, trucks and SUVs

This document was designed to provide a snapshot of survey results. We are continuingto analyze the data and will be providing a great deal more detail, combined with informa-tion gathered from our other sources, in the final report that will be released in late May.

We will also be undertaking a Chaldean Business survey to obtain further infor-mation about the characteristics of Chaldean-owned businesses in the tri-countyarea. We plan to combine data gathered in both surveys to develop estimates of theEconomic Impact Chaldeans have in Southeastern Michigan.

1 The remainder of the report will refer to representatives of the Chaldean, Assyrian and Syriac com-munities as Chaldean.

2 These results remain preliminary. Further analysis is being performed on the survey data, while otherlocal sources (communities, school districts, etc.) are identified to contact for additional contextual data.

3 The data contained in this report are specific to the three counties of Macomb, Oakland andWayne. This represents the location of the major churches and formed the bulk of the mailing listsused for questionnaire distribution. It is acknowledged that smaller Chaldean, Assyrian, Syriac commu-nities also exist in Genesee and Washtenaw counties, and that individual families have also found theirway to other southeast Michigan counties – Lapeer, Livingston, St. Clair and Monroe. This research hasnot attempted to estimate the numbers in these outlying counties. One can refer to the 2000 Censusresults (and the 2006 American Community Survey) to get estimates. It must be understood, however,that the Census undercounts this population and that one should apply a factor of between 3 and 4,according to the Arab American Institute, which has tied its findings on the Arab population, under-count to the Chaldeans as well.

4 The 2000 Census reported for all persons 25 years and over. Further analysis of those data clearly showsincreasing levels of education with each new generation – particularly those born in the United States.

5 Further analysis is being done on a series of occupation and business ownership questions to allowus to truly understand the job/ownership picture. These questions include: Employment Status/Nameof Employer/Business ownership/Number and Types of businesses owned.

**

YEAR

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ofes

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al d

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0%10%

20%30%

40% 60%50% 70%

PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL POPULATION

Chaldeans’ educationlevel has increasedsince the 2000 census.

survey census

less

than

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M A Y - J U N E 2 0 0 8 15

Comerica’s Amal Berry-Brown is afamiliar face to members of theChaldean Chamber. She serves as

co-chair of the Annual Awards Dinner andfrequently attends chamber events.

Though Michigan is struggling economi-cally, Berry-Brown remains optimistic.

“The one thing I would like to remindpeople is just how strong we are asMichiganders,” said Berry-Brown, who isComerica’s vice president, National Arab andChaldean American business affairs manager.“Our state has historically undergone periodsof significant financial and economic loss.However, I truly believe that Michigan willrise up as we have in the past and will beprosperous again.”

In the late 1990s, Comerica recognizedthe increasing diversity of its customers andformed the bank’s Arab and Chaldean-American initiative. Through theinitiative, Comerica and itsemployees are active in the com-munity — serving on the boardof directors for communityorganizations and sponsoringcommunity events and activities.

Comerica employees havelearned more about their Arab-and Chaldean-American cus-tomers, how they conduct busi-ness, the cultural differences thatexist and how to adapt to them.

Comerica and its employeesare active in the community –lending their business expertise and supportby being active members of organizationssuch as the Chaldean American Chamber ofCommerce and the Chaldean Federation ofAmerica. Comerica also sponsors manyevents and activities in the community.

In 1999, Comerica began an ethnic-based marketing strategy with the Arab andChaldean American community, built uponthe bank’s vision of helping people and busi-nesses be successful. The purpose of thisInitiative was to reach out to the communityin terms of learning how they conduct busi-ness and how Comerica can assist them with

their banking relationships, as well asextending financial support to organizationsand activities that fall within Comerica’s cor-porate giving guidelines.

Comerica employees receive diversitytraining and are sensitive to the needs oftheir customers. In fact, the company holdscultural training seminars foremployees each year that focuson the Arab and ChaldeanAmerican community. Thisserves as a tool for employeesto better understand and serveethnic communities.

Since the ChaldeanAmerican Chamber ofCommerce is a partner withinComerica’s Arab & ChaldeanAmerican Initiative, the cham-ber’s members and community

at large can benefit from Comerica’s widearray of products and services to meet theirpersonal and business needs from employeeswho speak their language. Comerica’s workforce is just as diverse as the communitieswhere they live and work.

Comerica also supports communityevents and activities that promote diversityand economic growth, including theChaldean Festival in Southfield, the CFACommencements in June and the GolfOuting at Shenandoah.

When Comerica began its Arab andChaldean initiative back in the late ‘90s, they

were the first bank to reach out to the Araband Chaldean American community andfocus on becoming the bank of choice for thecommunity. Comerica believes in creatinglong-standing relationships and this is whatthey have done with Chaldean Americans.

Comerica’s partnership with the Araband Chaldean American com-munities has exceeded allexpectations and, as a result,other ethnic and minority ini-tiatives have been created.

“I am a strong believerthat our success is because ofComerica’s unwavering com-mitment to serve our commu-nities and because of thestrong loyalty and support wereceive from the Arab andChaldean American communi-ty,” said Berry-Brown.

Comerica prides itself on helping com-munities grow. This is evident in their out-reach to the Arab and Chaldean Americancommunity. Over the years, Comerica hassupported the development of ShenandoahCountry Club and the Chaldean CulturalCenter, which serves as a jewel in theChaldean American community.

“Education is another key element of ourgiving priorities. Since 1999, we have pro-vided scholarships to over 100 ChaldeanAmericans seeking higher education. We’llbe providing scholarships again this year atthe Chaldean American FederationCommencements in June,” said Berry-Brown. “Our continued partnership and sup-port of the Chaldean American Chamber ofCommerce is truly the highlight of our giv-ing. Our partnerships with the chamber’smembers and supporters exemplify ourfocus on relationship banking.”

Berry-Brown said Comerica’s focus in2008 is on generating meaningful partnershipswith Arab- and Chaldean-Americans through-out their markets. A strong emphasis will beplaced on cities that have large Arab- andChaldean-American populations such asHouston, Los Angeles and San Diego, she said.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

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Comerica holds cultural training seminars for employees each year that focus on the Arab andChaldean Americancommunity.

Comerica: Reaching Out to Chaldeans


Kwame Kilpatrick and The City of DetroitDetroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick paid the chamber a visit on March 20 foran Industry Outlook Meeting at Shenandoah Country Club.

More than 100 members came to hear the mayor speak about theCity of Detroit and Chaldean-owned businesses.

Kilpatrick, who did not mention his ongoing legal problems in thetext messaging scandal, was complimentary to the community.

“You are a group of people anyone would want to mold,” he said.“Your community has spent the last 60 or 70 years grinding and work-ing really hard — but you have guts, too.”

Kilpatrick discussed his proposed Economic Stimulus Package anddrew a standing ovation for the audience when he said Detroit has “thisproblem of being mad all the time … we just got to lighten up a bit.”


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SOCIALS

Ambassador Imad Moustapha and Syria’s refugeesSyria has the most Iraq War refugees, said Imad Moustapha, the nation’s ambas-sador to the United States, at a private dinner attended by chamber members onMarch 14 At Shenandoah.

“It is truly sad that these Christians who are part of the historic fabric of Iraqmay no longer exist in their homeland,” he said. “We are doing what we can tohelp them. They are our brothers and sisters and we cannot see them suffer.”

Moustapha said he fears for the future of refugees. “We are seeing so muchdeath,” he said. “We are seeing horrible things happening to these people.”

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Women’s Committee NetworksMembers of the chamber’s Women’s Business and

Professional Committee mixed business with pleasure ata networking event on March 13. Members gathered atChocolates by Renee in Northville where they enjoyedmingling among the mouth-watering confections.

USAID UpdateThe situation in Iraq is stabilizing, but Chaldean Americans can do more to help.That was the message on March 31 when Henrietta Fore, administrator of the U.S.Agency for International Development (USAID), met with members of the chamberat a special meeting held at Shenandoah.

Congressman Joe Knollenberg introduced Fore to the gathering of communitybusiness leaders. “I’m of the belief that Madame Fore doesn’t just come because it’son the way to someplace else,” Knollenberg said. “She really does care.”

Fore said USAID has taken a focused approach to address the root causes ofinstability and provides technical assistance whenever Iraq’s government requests it.To foster a functioning bureaucracy, assistance has included training more than7,000 Iraqi civil servants – a number Fore hopes will double by 2009. To spark theeconomy, USAID also guarantees loans that Iraqi banks make to small businesses.The average loan is $2,100.

Chaldean Americans can help USAID, Fore said, by pinpointing potential busi-ness opportunities and/or individual entrepreneurs.

Force discussed specific support to the Nineveh Region, where the largest concentrationof Iraqi minorities reside. Many members of the chamber felt the region was “forgotten”by USAID. Fore assigned members of her staff to look into future resources in the regionand invited chamber leadership to meet with USAID representatives in Washington, D.C.

M A Y - J U N E 2 0 0 8 17

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Your involvement is what makes this a

successful Chamber. If you are interested in

joining one of our many committees, please contact us at [email protected] or 248-538-3700.

Business Conference Committee – Frank Jonna

and Kevin Jappaya, co-chairs. Helps plan and sup-

port the Chamber’s annual business conference.

This year the event is scheduled for October 16,

2008 at the Shenandoah Country Club.

Detroit Convenience Stores Committee – Paul

Asker and Clint Kassab, co-chairs. Dedicated

to establishing programs and services for

Detroit Convenience Store owners.

Detroit Grocers Committee – Mike Dikhow

and John Loussia, co-chairs. Task force estab-

lished to coordinate the efforts of Detroit

Grocers with the city of Detroit.

Dinner Committee – Rocky Husaynu and

Raad Kathawa, co-chairs. Helps plan and

support the Chamber’s annual awards din-

ner scheduled each April.

Festival Committee Committee –

Mark Kassa and Jason Najor, co-chairs.

Helps plan and support the Chamber

Foundation’s annual festival scheduled

for August 9-10, 2008.

Golf Outing Committee – Tony Konja and

Anthony Mona, co-chairs. Helps plan and

support the Chamber Foundation annual

golf outing scheduled for June 19, 2008.

Iraq Task Force Committee – Ismat Karmo

and James Rayis, co-chairs. Supports the

work of the Chaldean Assyrian Syriac

Council of America and helps promote busi-

ness opportunities in Iraq.

Membership Committee – Bassam Salman and

Amar Toma, co-chairs. Develop programs,

services and promotions to attract and retain

Chamber members.

Political Action Committee – Saad Hajjar and

Mike Koza, co-chairs. Assists qualified candi-

dates to elected offices and advances

Chaldean Chamber membership/community

issues.

Publication Committee – Sandra Hanna and

Sharon Hannawa, co-chairs. Helps develop

content for the Chamber newsletter.

Women’s Business and Professional

Committee – Sharon Hannawa and Sandra

Hanna, co-chairs. Develops programs and

services that help promote women businesses

and professionals.

Join a Chamber Committee!

C H A L D E A N - A M E R I C A N C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

2008 Corporate PartnersThanks so much to all of our corporate sponsors. We appreciate your support!

Bavarian BMW/Audi of Rochester HillsBavarian BMW offers two loca-tions – the original BavarianMotor Village in Eastpointe, acertified pre-owned center; andthe new state-of-the-art retail cen-ter in Shelby Township.Bavarian’s business reputation hasbeen built on the care and servicegiven to customers — customersatisfaction is always the highestpriority. The firm also includesAudi of Rochester Hills, whichoffers new and pre-owned vehi-cles as well as parts and service.Audi of Rochester Hills is com-mitted to providing the highestlevels of customer service.

Central Intelligence AgencyThe Central Intelligence Agency(CIA) is an independent United

States Government agencyresponsible for providingnational security intelligence tosenior U.S. policymakers.

Comcast Comcast was founded in 1963as a single-system cable opera-tion. Today, it is the country’slargest provider of cable servic-es—and one of the world’s lead-ing communications companies,focusing on broadband cable,commerce, and content.

Comerica Comerica has had a continuouspresence in Detroit since 1849— longer than any other bank.With more than 230 Michiganlocations, including 150+ inSoutheast Michigan, Comericamakes banking easy and con-venient for its customers. In thelate 1990s, Comerica recognized

the increasing diversity of itscustomers and formed thebank’s Arab and Chaldean-American initiative.

Country FreshCountry Fresh has been thefavorite dairy brand inMichigan and nearby genera-tions because families knowthat when they choose CountryFresh, they’re taking home thedairy best.

DTE EnergyDTE Energy Company is adiversified energy companyinvolved in the developmentand management of energy-related businesses and servicesnationwide. DTE is proud tosupply safe, reliable electricand natural gas services toMichigan businesses andhomes.

Fifth Third BankEstablished in 1908, Fifth ThirdBank serves customers in sevensouthwestern Michigan coun-ties, operating 82 banking cen-ters. Fifth Third Bank is widelyrecognized as one of thestrongest, top performing banksin the country, focusing on fourmain sectors of the business:retail, commercial, investmentadvisers and Fifth Third BankProcessing Solutions, the bank’sdata process subsidiary.

Gleaners CommunityFood BankThe third-oldest food bank inthe United States, GleanersCommunity Food Bank’s mis-sion has been to turn surplusfood, which otherwise wouldgo to waste, into millions ofdelicious meals for hungry peo-ple in southeastern Michigan.


Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce30095 Northwestern Highway, Suite 102Farmington Hills, MI 48334

PRSRT STDUS POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT NO. 83

FARMINGTON HILLS, MI


Spring 2008 Chaldean Commerce Newsletter

Documents

Transcript of Spring 2008 Chaldean Commerce Newsletter