FALL 2011
CHALDEAN COMMERCE Official Newsletter of the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce
Business Conference Tackles Issues of the Day MEDC’s Michael Finney INSIDE
Marketing without Cliches Legislative Update
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CHALDEAN COMMERCE Official Newsletter of the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce FALL 2011
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Greetings
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FEATURE
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Briefings
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D Is for Development Planning Ahead for Refugees Chaldean Loan Fund Being Readied Liquor Control Changes Are Welcome You Had Mail … So Please Respond Awards Season Coming Member News
Cover Story
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Business Conference Tackles Issues of the Day
OUR CHAMBER
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Chamber Staff and Board of Directors
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From the Executive Director Mission Statement Join Us for Holiday Spirit Save the Date 7 Michael Finney: Michigan’s Ready to Help
Members
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New & Renewed Members New Member Spotlights
Marketing
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Avoiding Cliches to Truly Communicate
Legislative Update
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Liquor Tax Legislation Signed into Law Mortgage Fraud to Be a Felony America’s War in Iraq Coming to a Close No-Fault Insurance Debate Takes Shape in Lansing No Movement on Obama Jobs Bill
socials
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Speaker in the House Lt. Gov. Calley Visits Think Pink Meet the CEOs
calendar
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2012 Calendar of Events
FALL 2011 CHALDEAN COMMERCE
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Greetings
Our Mission
from the executive director
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.
join us for holiday spirit Our annual Christmas Party is set for Thursday, December 8 from 6-9 p.m. The festive evening includes networking, cocktails and dinner at the Regency Manor, 25228 W. 12 Mile Road in Southfield. The event is free for members, $40 for non-members. Please RSVP by December 6 to lkalou@chaldeanchamber.com or (248) 996-8340.
save the date January 26
Quarterly Networking Meeting
March 23
Ninth Annual Awards Dinner
May 10
Quarterly Networking Meeting
May 17
Third Annual Chaldean Day in Lansing
June 8-10
Seventh Annual Chaldean Festival
June 21
Ninth Annual Golf Outing
August 8
Quarterly Networking Meeting
September 13 Industry Outlook October 18
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t’s never easy to say goodbye to a leader and I admit to being particularly misty about the departure of Frank Jonna, who has reached his term limit after six years on the chamber board. Frank was our chairman the last three years and served with his characteristic distinction and enthusiasm. Frank’s dedication is all the more remarkable when you consider that he runs the flourishing Jonna Companies and also sits on the boards of many charitable organizations including the Catholic Central Alumni Association and Our Lady of Sorrows Athletic Association. Most recently, he was named to the prestigious board of trustees for Detroit Public Television. Yet he MARTIN MANNA always made time for his chamber duties and proved to be an outstanding leader. We also bid so long — “farewell” seems too final since we are sure to still see him stay involved — to another term-limited director. Attorney Paul Asker has been an invaluable contributor to our organization. Thanks also to Bassam Salman and Frank Asmar, who have served us well. As always, we look forward to new ideas and energy from the eight board members who will be elected on November 9 (past press time for this issue of Chaldean Commerce). Visit our website, ChaldeanChamber.com, for the results. We at the chamber were none too pleased by the sweetheart deals extended to bring Whole Foods and Meijer into Detroit. Tax breaks, grants and other incentives create an unfair playing field for the independent grocers. Chaldean grocers have toiled for decades in Detroit, but government seems intent only in luring Frank Jonna in the new and shiny. History has shown that these government incentives just don’t work. (Anyone remember Kroger, Zaccaro’s and Detroit Foodland?) We helped get that message out this summer after the extravagant Whole Foods deal was exposed by the Chaldean News. While we have made no secret of disagreeing with their strategies in this regard, we do greatly value the efforts of both the Michigan and Detroit economic development corporations. We especially appreciate their respective CEOs, Michael Finney and George Jackson, for taking the time to meet with our membership and explain their rationale and procedures. Mr. Finney was a charming and eloquent spokesman at our September 15 Industry Outlook, while Mr. Jackson graced the distinguished panel at our Annual Business Luncheon on October 20. Our deep thanks to both men for keeping the lines of communication open as we all seek ways to improve Michigan’s economy.
Annual Business Luncheon
November 14 Annual Meeting and Board Election December 6
Annual Member Christmas Party
Martin Manna, Executive Director 4
CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL 2011
Feature
Michael Finney: Michigan’s Ready to Help
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ichigan has $80 million available to help businesses, particularly those in urban areas and/or redeveloping brownfields, said Michael A. Finney, president and CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corp. “I’m going to call it the Chaldean Special Loan Program,” he joked to more than 100 attendees at an Industry Outlook group hosted by the chamber on September 15 at Shenandoah Country Club. “Tomorrow I’ll call it something else.” Another $100 million is available in incentives to help get deals done for businesses of all sizes that are creating jobs, he said. Finney charmed the crowd, many of whom came into the evening angry at the MEDC for its expansive incentives to attract Whole Foods into Detroit. He was unapologetic about the deal, saying that the idea is to create a focus on “quality of space” attractive to “young, vibrant” consumers who may settle in Detroit or another Michigan city. “If the deal was for Ann Arbor or Troy, we probably would not have helped them,” he said. Businesses should not let the Whole Foods and upcoming Meijer deal discourage them from applying for MEDC assistance, Finney said. “There is not just one dollar and someone else already got it,” he said. The MEDC has been revitalized under Gov. Rick Snyder, Finney said, and is undergoing a culture change to trim red tape. “We can work quickly,” he said, referring to a deal with a factory in Manistique that was completed in just nine days, saving the company from Chapter 7 bankruptcy. MEDC is also committed to promoting business connections, he said, encouraging attendees to check out Pure Michigan Business Connection and the Business to Business Network, an online database of businesses that enables companies to release and bid on contracts. MEDC is also helping facilitate the export of agricultural products to Asia and assisting companies that need to hire talent by encouraging people with Michigan roots to return to the state with the MichAGAIN program. Finney noted that Michigan has $8 billion on the books in tax credits and called that system “a slippery slope that is not working.” Instead, he said, MEDC can give money in the form of loans, grants or investments and is “particularly sensitive to things in the urban core.” Grocer Isam Yaldo, who owns University Foods,
pointed out that he paid $205,000 for a piece of land in Midtown Detroit near Wayne State University in 1996 or ’97. “Why can’t Whole Foods come in and compete for the land like we did?” he asked Finney. “It just put us at a disadvantage.” Vice President for Business Development Olga Stella said a few words on behalf of the Detroit Economic Development Corp., whose director, George Jackson, had been scheduled to appear. She said Chaldean grocers should look into obtaining help from the Green Grocer program, which strives to increase the quality of food choices in the city. When grocer Randy Rabban of Save-A-Lot stores challenged that idea, Stella admitted that the program is currently out of money but said it is working on getting more funds. But, she added, the program “can’t incentivize normal business operations.” Many thanks to Health Alliance Plan (HAP), who sponsored the event.
The MEDC has been revitalized under Gov. Rick Snyder and is undergoing a culture change to trim red tape.
FALL 2011 CHALDEAN COMMERCE
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Briefings
in 2010, is aggressively developing its Woodward Avenue neighborhood (Jefferson to Grand Circus) and wants to create “Webwood,” a high-tech corridor. The company, which has acquired 1.7 million square feet in Detroit office space and parking lots since April, is seeking tenants, particularly in retail. “Things are happening in Detroit,” said Bruce Schwartz, who has the title of Detroit relocation ambassador. “We need your help to help us grow.”
Planning Ahead for Refugees
Above: Enjoying the view of Detroit from Quicken’s basketball court. Right: John Khami checks out a tropical aquarium, one of Quicken’s many artistic touches.
D Is for Development Good things are happening in Detroit and Dan Gilbert, founder and chairman of Quicken Loans, is behind many of them. That’s the message imparted to a dozen chamber members who toured the company’s impressive, high-tech headquarters in the Compuware Building on October 27. The event was hosted by Bedrock Management, Gilbert’s real estate services company. Quicken, which moved its headquarters to Detroit 6
CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL 2011
Of the nearly 15,000 refugees from the Iraq War living in the Detroit area, some 90 percent are Chaldean. Another 10,000 Chaldean refugees are expected to arrive over the next three years. The Iraq Refugee Mainstreaming Project from the Chaldean Community Foundation (CCF), the chamber’s charitable arm, details plans to assist this vulnerable population for the next three years and beyond. The refugees have fled Iraq because their lives have been threatened, loved ones have been murdered (often before their eyes), their churches have been destroyed, and/or they have been targeted for violence or death because of their religious beliefs. Many suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. Most speak their native tongue, Aramaic (the language of Christ). Some speak Arabic. Some are well-educated. Many are not. Many fled Iraq to neighboring countries, where they were in refugee camps for extended periods of time. The vast majority in the Detroit region are unemployed – some estimates are as high as 80 percent. Many have been clustered in massive low-rent apartment complexes in southern Macomb County, specifically Warren and Sterling Heights. The complexes have created a “ghetto” environment that is counter-productive and negative for the residents, who feel trapped. Most have no transportation. Many struggle with the emotional aftershocks of living through the Iraq War. Anecdotally, some are so dejected with the “American Experience” that they have confided they wish they could go back home to Iraq, where there is great danger - but at least there is familiarity and some degree of orientation. Highlights of the CCF’s Action Timetable include: • Continued execution of existing social services support and bilingual education programming funded by the State of Michigan. • Assistance with employment, including workforce training and an expanded Jobs Bank • Launching a public awareness campaign. • Establishing a housing development for newcomers View the entire report on our website, ChaldeanFoundation.org.
member news Chaldean Loan Fund Being Readied Michigan lacks a decent public transportation system, a fact that hinders the refugee population of Metro Detroit as noted on page 6. To help newcomers purchase a used vehicle for transportation — an essential ingredient towards success in the United States — the Chaldean Community Foundation is partnering with the Bank of Michigan to form the Chaldean Loan Fund. Modeled after the Hebrew Loan Fund, the Chaldean Loan Fund is designed to provide low-interest loans to community members for the purpose of purchasing a used vehicle. The program will give five-year loans of up to $5,000 at low interest rates. We have $60,000 in commitments from donors for the new program.
Liquor Control Changes Are Welcome
Shane Pliska
Simon Jonna
Jumhoria Kaskorkis
Jason Abro
Chad Manna
Shane Pliska, the CEO of Planterra Corp., was named to Crain Detroit Business’ 40 Under 40 list. Pliska is credited for taking the interior plant company national. Planterra’s creations grace the Chaldean Chamber office. The board of directors of Marcus & Millichap Real Estate Investment Services, the nation’s largest real estate investment services firm, has promoted Simon Jonna to vice president investments. Jonna began his career with the firm in May 2005 specializing in the sale of retail properties. Most recently, he held the position of associate vice president investments. Jumhoria Kaskorkis has been promoted to program manager for the Chaldean Community Foundation’s Mental Health Services grant. She spent 10 years as a case manager with the ACC. Detective Jason Abro has been promoted to sergeant in the Macomb County Sheriff’s Department. Chad Manna has been hired by Flagstar Bank in Birmingham as an assistant sales manager.
Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) Chairman Andy Deloney announced changes to the liquor control permit process on September 26. This new procedure, which he calls a “licensing reform process,” applies only to existing active on- or offpremise license holders and does not apply to new applicants, transfers of ownership, or transfers of location. or promotions to their fellow members at a The permit applications that very nominal cost. Look for the next MemLate-Breaking News are being revamped include reber to Member mailing in March. Please quests for permanent additional Board of Directors support your fellow chamber members! bars, requests to conduct beer elections were held on and wine samplings, requests to November 9, after we add living quarters to the licensed went to press with this … So Please Respond establishment, and requests for edition of Chaldean ComSunday Sales Permits, Catering merce. Visit our website, The Chaldean Business Survey is an Permits or permanent Specific ChaldeanChamber.com important project that requires everyPurpose Permits. for results! one’s help. The chamber has contracted Effective immediately, all with Data Driven Detroit and Walsh completed permit applications will College to compile invaluable statistics immediately be placed on a consent agenda docket for on Chaldeans and their economic impact on Southapproval by the Commission at the next day’s schedeast Michigan. Each Chaldean household should have uled open meeting. Investigation by the Commission’s received their survey by now. If you have not, please Enforcement Division or the local law enforcement contact the chamber at (248) 996-8340. agency is no longer required. Deloney said more changes are coming. For more Awards Season Coming information, visit michigan.gov/lcc. Who deserves the coveted title of Business Person of the Year? Whose charitable works have made him or her eligible for Humanitarian of the Year? We’re countYou Had Mail … ing on you to help select the members who will receive Twenty companies participated in our fall Member to these prestigious honors at our Annual Awards Dinner Member mailing. This has become one of our most on March 23. Please keep your eye out for the official popular programs, allowing members to offer special deals nomination forms, which will go out in January.
The Chaldean Business Survey is an important project that requires everyone’s help.
FALL 2011 CHALDEAN COMMERCE
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Cover Story
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1. Pam Dover; 2. L. Brooks Patterson 3. Lois Dent 4. Bob Ficano 5. George Jackson and L. Brooks Patterson 6. Crowded house 7. Dan Dellamora, Corey Farris 8. Barry Phillips, Char Yates, Frank Jonna 9. Amir Gasso, Sid Ruban, L. Brooks Patterson, Najah Gasso, Bill Mullan 10. Charlie Langton and George Karmo 11. Charlie Langton and Huda Fadel
Business Conference Tackles Issues of the Day
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Jackson held firm to his view that the generous incentives used atters as diverse as heavy industry and light rail were debated to lure Whole Foods and Meijer into Detroit are justified, calling it a during the chamber’s Annual Business Luncheon on October 20. “consumer-driven issue.” Long-standing independent grocers, many of Moderator Charlie Langton of Fox 2 Detroit led a lively whom are Chaldean, have complained that the city takes their contridiscussion with the three panelists: Wayne County Executive Robert butions for granted. Ficano, Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson, and George “We are giving the residents the choices they demand,” Jackson Jackson, president and CEO of the Detroit Economic Growth Corp. said. “When we target [a chain], it’s for someThe elephant in the room – a large press thing we don’t already have. These are stores corps gathered at Shenandoah Country Club Thanks to our sponsors: Blue Cross Blue Detroiters already shop at, but they are not shopintent on getting comments from Ficano Shield of Michigan, Central Intelligence ping in Detroit.” regarding the Metro Airport “severance-gate” Agency and Comcast, as well as HAP, Incentives, Jackson added, are used by every scandal – was only hinted at. St. John’s Providence, Wayne County, urban area and are only meant to be temporary “What has been the most exciting thing Detroit Medical Center Huron Valley Sinai, Tucker Young, and the Chaldean to develop a market. “You’re only a failure if you that has happened to you this week?” LangNews. Board members Kevin Jappaya keep having to do that,” he said. “It should not ton asked Ficano. and Gerard van Grinsven headed the be a permanent fixture.” “It isn’t my golf game,” responded Ficano. committee, which included Layth Barash He added, “Most of our deals with incentives Quipped Patterson, “All’s quiet on the westand Harry Barash. are small businesses, most under $200,000. Let’s ern front comparatively.” 8
CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL 2011
Our Chamber EXECUTIVE BOARD
Founding & Lifetime Members
Chairman: Frank Jonna CEO, Jonna Companies
Ron Acho Cummings, McClorey, Davis & Acho
Executive Vice-Chairman: Paul Asker Partner, Asker Perlmuter PLC
Carl Dallo 17th Street Bar & Grille
Vice-Chairman: John Loussia President, Value Wholesale, Inc.
Jamal Kalabat Icon Management
Treasurer: Wendy Acho
John & Chris Denha Denha Investment Group
Executive Board Member: Saad Hajjar CEO, Abcosat Corp.
DIRECTORS Iyad Alosachie, MD Physician, Hazel Park Medical Center Frank Asmar President, Tinelle Properties
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Kevin Jappaya Realtor, Thomas A. Duke Company
Bassam Salman, President, Apollo Building Company Sharona Shapiro, Director of Community Development, DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital
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Wisam Paulus Trepco Basim & Mazin Shina Apollo Market Jalal Garmo Majestic Wine & Deli
Waad & Joey Murad Metro Car Company
Eric Younan Senior Marketing Associate, UHY LLP
Najib & Arvin Ayar Whitmore Lake Hotels, Inc.
Ron Acho Legal Counsel
Lisa Kalou Director of Events/Operations Sharon Hannawa Program Manager, Refugee Acculturation Sustainability and Training
CONFERENCE continued on page 16
Ameer & Jason Najor Super Fair Foods
Jay Yasso Partner, Hertz Schram PC
Martin Manna Executive Director
keep it in perspective here. Invest as a developer and you’ll get the same deals. All these deals have local developers.” Patterson said that Oakland County is sometimes unfairly cast as an opponent to Detroit. But, he noted, the city’s poor image does its suburbs no favors. “When I’m traveling I have to explain away the image of Detroit and it ain’t easy. I tell people that Oakland County is in the foothills of Livonia,” he said to laughter. “I want Detroit to succeed. Then I can make my job that much more effective.” Langton asked the men where they would personally invest these days. All said they
Mazen Samona Smokers Outlet
Frank Jaddou Mazen Foods
CHAMBER and foundation STAFF
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Najib Atisha Lance’s Hometown Market
Gerard van Grinsven CEO, Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital
Sabah Hermiz (Summa) Founder
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Dave Nona Triangle Development
Jumhoria Kaskorkis Program Manager, Refugee Mental Health Services
Terry Farida Value Center Markets Jim Hiller Hiller’s Markets
Partner Members Joseph Atto Fox Realty, LLC Rocky H. Husaynu Professional Insurance Planners Johnny Karmo Market Square Steven Kherkher Williams Kherkher John Loussia Value Wholesale
Shawn Ayar Membership Manager
Steven Tapper Tappers Diamonds and Fine Jewelry
Valerie Cholagh Reception/Administration
CONTACT INFORMATION
Galia Thomas Tri-Lingual Translator/Case Manager Walid Abro Case Manager Kristin Jirjis Bajoka Case Manager Raad Yousif Case Manager
Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce 29850 Northwestern Highway, Suite 250 Southfield, MI 48034 Phone: (248) 996-8340 Fax: (248) 996-8342 www.chaldeanchamber.com
Nidhal Hadid Case Manager Wisam Jirjis Case Manager Sathab Abbo Ousachi Legal Affairs/HR Karlo Atchoo, Karla Atchoo & Associates Finance Joyce Wiswell Publications FALL 2011 CHALDEAN COMMERCE
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Members
new & renewed members New Lifetime Member Platinum Communications, Inc. John David, CEO 5953 John R Road Troy, MI 48085 T (248) 879-0000 F (248) 879-9681 johndavid@platinumatt.com www.platinumatt.com Telecommunications — exclusive dealer for AT&T offering home and business phone, high-speed internet, wireless and cable television
Spartan Stores Jeanne Norcross, Vice President Corporate Affairs 850 76th Street S.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49518 T (616) 878-2830 F (616) 878-8242 jeanne_norcross@spartanstores.com www.spartanstores.com Owns and operates 97 supermarkets in Michigan and supplies more than 40,000 private label and national brand products to nearly 350 independent grocery stores
New Corporate Members
stands the important role a local bank plays in the growth and vitality of the area it serves
New Business Members 360 Global Trade, LLC Burnell Davis, President & CEO P.O. Box 2302 Farmington Hills, MI 48333 T (248) 207-2091 M (248) 327-4807 Bleongroup1@vzw.blackberry.net www.360globaltrade.acnrep.com
Happy’s Pizza Happy Asker, Founder 30201 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 538-0000 F (248) 538-0018 info@happyspizza.com www.happyspizza.com American regional chain of restaurants serving pizza, ribs, chicken, seafood, sandwiches, pasta and salad Hydro Giant Indoor Garden Supply Martin Yono, President 21650 W. Eight Mile Road Detroit, MI 48219 T (734) 497-6434 F (734) 687-6016 martin@hydrogiant.com www.hydrogiant.com Michigan’s premier hydroponic indoor gardening supply store Macomb County Department of Planning & Economic Development Stephen N. Cassin, AICP, Executive Director 1 S. Main Street, 7th Floor Mount Clemens, MI 48083 T (586) 469-5285 F (586) 469-6787 stephen.cassin@macombcountymi. gov www.macombcountymi.gov Implements the county’s economic development strategy Mount Clemens Regional Medical Center Bobette Dodge, Marketing Development Specialist 1000 Harrington Boulevard Mount Clemens, MI 48043 T (586) 493-8000 F (586) 493-4292 bdodge@mcrmc.org www.mcrmc.org A 288-bed acute care hospital with more than 2,000 employees providing a full range of services including cancer and cardiovascular care 10
CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL 2011
pgdavis@aaamichigan.com www.aaamichigan.com Provides travel insurance and financial services
Access Health Discounts Sean Doyle, President 13260 Netherwood Street Southgate, MI 48195 T (734) 288-7405 O (855) CHEAP-RX F (888) 897-5277 sean@accesshealthdiscounts.com www.accessrxcard.com Community outreach marketing organization; distributes a free card that helps anyone save money on prescription medication Audere Chris Abro, Owner 280 W. Maple Road, Suite 212 Birmingham, MI 48009 T (248) 544-4580 F (248) 932-6525 chris@audere.com www.audere.com A Michigan web development and graphic design company specializing in web design, e-commerce, web marketing, web hosting, 3-D modeling, print design and logo design in a variety of industries
NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:
Beachfront Hotel
The Jappaya and Foumia families have dipped their toe into the waterfront resort business with the opening of the Beachfront Hotel on Houghton Lake. The 60-room hotel was formerly a Best Western. George & Kevin Jappaya and Eddie & Patrick Foumia purchased the property, which had been closed for more than a year, from a bank in May and after some renovations, reopened it this past summer. Features include an indoor pool, dock and private sandy beach. Most rooms have a balcony overlooking Houghton Lake. 4990 West Houghton Lake Drive, Houghton Lake, MI 48629-9203; (989) 202-4700. BeachFrontHL.com. Talmer Bank & Trust George March, Managing Director – Commercial Banking 2301 W. Big Beaver Road, Suite 525 Troy, MI 48084 T (248) 522-3212 O (800) 456-1500 F (248) 649-2305 gmarch@talmerbank.com www.talmerbank.com A community bank that under-
Network marketing, telecom and new technology company; marketing products and services that you use everyday AAA Farmington Hills Percy Davis & James Hall, Agents 30038 Orchard Lake Road Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 851-0400 F (248) 851-6587
Beachfront Hotel Patrick Foumia 4990 W. Houghton Lake Drive Houghton Lake, MI 48629 T (989) 202-4700 F (989) 202-4710 info@beachfronthl.com www.beachfronthl.com Hotel with private sandy beach on Houghton Lake Blush Salon Lena Arafat, Owner 2169 N. Pontiac Trail Walled Lake, MI 48390 T (248) 960-7499 blushsalon@yahoo.com www.blushsalonmi.com Full-service beauty salon Chaldean Business Journal Dalen Hanna, President 4840 N. Adams Road, Suite 140 Rochester, MI 48306 T (248) 387-9220 info@chaldeanjournal.com www.chaldeanjournal.com Monthly newspaper highlighting news and events that relate to the entrepreneurs and professionals within the Chaldean community Clark Law, PLLC Richard H. Clark, President 30400 Telegraph Road, Suite 118 Bingham Farms, Michigan 48025
July 15, 2011 – October 20, 2011
T (248) 885-8713 F (248) 247-2446 richclark@clarkclarklaw.com www.clarkclarklaw.com Law firm specializing in private bankruptcy law, family law, civil litigation and collections Clover Leaf Plaza d/b/a 24520 12 Mile Southfield, LLC Louie Barbat 24520 W. 12 Mile Road Southfield, MI 48034 T (248) 357-3500 Shopping center located on the northwest corner of 12 Mile and Telegraph roads
1650 W. Big Beaver Road, Suite 156 Troy, MI 48084 T (248) 458-7218 F (866) 250-7628 jburt@firstam.com www.firstam.com/ncs Innovative and reputable global commercial real estate business partner providing unparalleled solutions that contribute to a client’s success Freud Corban Dental Supply Joe Hannawa, Business Development 23890 Freeway Park Drive Farmington Hills, MI 48335
T (248) 361-9500 al@geektownusa.com www.geektownusa.com Digital branding company that helps businesses develop and grow their Internet presence by providing cutting-edge technologies Great Lakes Home Inspection Saad Hasani, Owner/Engineer/Inspector 39454 Augusta Avenue Sterling Heights, MI 48313 T (586) 804-6252 glhomeinspection@gmail.com
Colliers International Paul Choukourian, Managing Director Two Corporate Drive, Suite 300 Southfield, MI 48076 T (248) 540-1000 F (248) paul.choiukourian@colliers.com www.colliers.com Leading commercial real estate company with local offices in Southfield and Ann Arbor Datanet Int. Robert Guntmacher, President 4415 Deckerland Street West Bloomfield, MI 48323 T (248) 521-1896 F (248) 624-5588 info@datanetint.com Broker for multiple alternative utility providers and a specialist in e-commerce merchant accounts Del Pointe Foods Nadia Atisha, Owner 16700 Harper Avenue Detroit, MI 48219 T (313) 886-7700 F (313) 886-7705 delpointefoods@gmail.com www.delpointefoods.com Supermarket featuring quality meat, dairy and produce DUO Restaurant & Lounge Danny Foumia, Owner/Manager 29555 Northwestern Highway, Suite 304 Southfield, MI 48034 T (248) 996-9929 F (248) 996-9930 info@dineduo.com www.dineduo.com Restaurant and lounge with upscale American cuisine First American Title Insurance Company Jamie Burt, Vice President & State Manager, National Commercial Services
support@hajjilaw.com www.hajjilaw.com Law firm specializing in criminal defense and personal/auto injury Hannah’s Home Care, Inc. Maria Walton, Owner 29488 Woodward Avenue, Suite 214 Royal Oak, MI 48073 T (248) 312-0040 F (248) 312-0044 mariawalton@sbcglobal.net www.hannahshomecare.com Home care agency dedicated to providing the highest quality of non-medical in-home care, treating everyone with respect and compassion Home Interior Warehouse Jackie Schwartz, President 1017 E. West Maple Road Walled Lake, MI 48390 T (248) 624-6700 F (248) 624-5325 contact@homeinteriorwarehouse.com www.homeinteriorwarehouse.com Retail store offering complete interior design services, full lines of furniture and accessories, and a hallmark silk floral design studio; open to the public as well as interior designers and builders
NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:
Lace Boutique
Riva Kalasho & Joann Yaldo opened Lace Bridal Boutique this past summer. The store carries “everything but the dress” for the big wedding day, including invitations, veils and headpieces, jewelry, shoes, lingerie, cake toppers and, of course, garters. “So far a lot of people from the community have made their way in. We’re learning what people need and growing as we go,” says Yaldo. “We joined the chamber as a good way to network and meet people from different businesses.” 1885 E. Big Beaver (near the Somerset Collection), Troy, MI 48083; (248) 740-5500. ShopLaceBridal.com. T (800) 474-6111 F (248) 919-5709 sales@corbandentalsupply.com www.corbandentalsupply.com Premier online source for discount dental supplies Geek Town USA Al Zara, Owner 6362 Richard Run Street West Bloomfield, MI 48322
Home inspector ensuring clients are making the right decision with their investments Hajji Law Firm Daniel Dured Hajji, Attorney 30300 Northwestern Highway, Suite 308 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 865-4700 F (248) 865-4705
Hurricane Grill & Wings George Zoma, General Manager 29852 Northwestern Highway Southfield, MI 48034 T (248) 996-8296 www.hurricanewings.com Dine-in & carry-out restaurant specializing in uniquely savory chicken wings with more than 30 signature sauces in five categories Hyperion Investment LLC Paul Ott, President 3144 Bessie Street Auburn Hills, MI 48326 T (248) 797-4730 paulott@hyperioninvestment.com www.p-bat.com Offers P-BAT (Personal Breath Alcohol Tester), a hand-held portable breath alcohol detector that uses gas semiconductor technology Infinity Jewelers Seta Bederian, Vice President 305 S. Main Street Royal Oak, MI 48067 T (248) 410-0327 Nikki7980@aol.com www.infinityjewelersmi.com Serving the public and local jewelers with their creative and meticulous craftsmanship done in-house; also buyer of gold and diamonds
FALL 2011 CHALDEAN COMMERCE
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Members
new & renewed members Lace Boutique Riva Kalasho 1885 E. Big Beaver Road Troy, MI 48083 T (248) 740-5500 F (248) 740-5514 info@shoplacebridal.com www.shoplacebridal.com A bridal invitation and accessory boutique Lafayette Foods Lance Atisha, Owner 1565 E. Lafayette Boulevard Detroit, MI 48207 T (313) 396-5600 F (313) 396-5601 lafayettefoods@gmail.com www.lafayettefoods.com Supermarket featuring quality meat, dairy and produce
and laminate with four locations serving Metro Detroit MGM Grand Detroit Tasha Squires, CMP, Sales Manager 1777 Third Street Detroit, MI 48226 T (313) 465-8756 O (877) 646-3868 F (313) 465-3788 tsquires01@det.mgmgrand.com www.mgmgranddetroit.com Casino sales division
Mike’s Fresh Market Jamal Abro, Owner 19195 Livernois Avenue Detroit, MI 48221 T (313) (313) 345-4711 F (313) 345-3920 www.mikesfreshmarket.com Fresh groceries and produce, up-todate nutrition and diabetic foods, well-lit shopping, and excellent customer service Morgan Stanley Smith Barney Justin Barbat, Financial Advisor 35055 W. 12 Mile Road, Suite 101
Life Time Fitness Vince Orsini, General Manager 2901 Commerce Crossing Boulevard Commerce Township, MI 48390 T (248) 668-7367 F (248) 960-0966 vorsini@lifetimefitness.com www.lifetimefitness.com Healthy way of life company Madamma Driving School John Bitti, Owner 2791 E. 14 Mile Road, Suite 202 Sterling Heights, MI 48310 T (586) 843-7483 F (650) 240-9675 info.madamma@gmail.com www.madamma.com Offers courses for segment 1 and segment 2 for teens and adult lessons; instructor is fluent in Arabic, Chaldean and English Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Enmar Alayoubi, Financial Advisor/ Wealth Management 2600 W. Big Beaver Road, Suite 110 Troy, MI 48084 T (248) 655-4108 F (248) 494-7011 enmar.alayoubi@ml.com www.ml.com Provides custom wealth management solutions Metro Carpet and Floors George Lakkis, Owner 6465 N. Telegraph Road Dearborn Heights, MI 48127 T (313) 274-1600 F (313) 274-1616 metrocarpetandfloors@yahoo.com www.metrocarpetandfloors.co *(this is correct, no “m”) Flooring experts carrying carpet, wood, no-wax vinyl, ceramic tile 12
CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL 2011
National Realty Centers Randy Gammo, Realtor 1000 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Suite 103 Birmingham, MI 48009 T (248) 724-1234 O (855) NRC-HOMES F (586) 693-5245 info@randygammo.com www.randygammo.com Licensed real estate agent and mortgage officer Nativity Gift Shop Anan Alkhoury, Manager P.O. Box 527 Clarkston, MI 48347 T (248) 677-1792 sales@nativitygiftshop.com www.NativityGiftShop.com Hand-carved olive wood religious items from the Holy Land including nativity scenes, crucifixes, angels, rosaries, Christmas ornaments, jewelry, gift sets and more; free shipping on online storefront Neptix Ray Foumia, Owner 16215 W. 12 Mile Road Southfield, MI 48076 T (877) 7-NEPTIX info@neptix.com www.neptix.com Leading provider of Internet-based ticketing services
NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:
Attorney Dan Hajji
Though he handles a variety of legal matters, particularly criminal and DUI cases, Dan Hajji (above, left) has become well-known as the attorney for Kwame Kilpatrick, the embattled ex-mayor of Detroit. Hajji is fighting for Kilpatrick to keep the profits from his memoir rather than have the monies go to Detroit to pay his $1 million restitution. The case is before the Michigan Supreme Court and Hajji is determined to go all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court0 if necessary. It’s a constitutional matter, he says, claiming that Kilpatrick’s free-speech rights are being violated. 30300 Northwestern Highway, Farmington Hills, MI 48334; (248) 865-4700. HajjiLaw.com.
Mike’s Fresh Market Jamal Abro, Owner 14383 Gratiot Avenue Detroit, MI 48205 T (313) 526-8393 www.mikesfreshmarket.com Fresh groceries and produce, up-todate nutrition and diabetic foods, well-lit shopping, and excellent customer service
Farmington Hills, MI 48331 T (248) 848-8010 F (248) 848-8716 justin.barbat@mssb.com www.fa.smithbarney.com/justinbarbat Protects business owners and professionals preserving their wealth, reducing tax burdens and managing risks in investments
NorthStar Painting Avis Jaradi, Owner 6346 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 20 West Bloomfield, MI 48322 T (248) 562-7456 F (248) 562-7453 avis@paintwithnorthstar.com www.paintwithnorthstar.com Commercial and residential professional painting services Penna’s of Sterling Heights Tony Penna, President 38400 Van Dyke Avenue Sterling Heights, MI 48312 T (586) 978-3880 F (586) 939-3173 info@pennasbanquets.com www.pennasbanquets.com Banquet hall with four banquet rooms to accommodate from 100-1,200 guests and large marble dance floors with spacious bar areas Ruby’s Balm Sheryl Freedland, Owner 6917 Orchard Lake Road West Bloomfield, MI 48322 T (248) 626-7829 F (248) 626-7847 rubysbalm@sbcglobal.net www.shoprubysbalm.com
July 15, 2011 – October 20, 2011
Beauty boutique offering the best in makeup, skincare, hair care, fragrance, and bath and body products as well as a huge selection of women’s accessories and gifts Sam Michael’s Tailoring & Tuxedo Mike Shihadeh, Owner 29437 W. 12 Mile Road Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 477-4615 F (248) 477-9214 mynewtux@gmail.com www.sammichaels.com Full-service menswear, tuxedos and custom tailoring Shelf Genie of Southfield Al Williams, President 23475 Edinburgh Street Southfield, MI 48033 T (248) 420-3903 O (888) 853-8818 F (248) 352-3744 awilliams@shelfgenie.com www.shelfgenie.com/southfield The premier Glide-Out shelf provider and cabinet organizer The Shirt Box Ron Elkus & Rod Brown, Co-Owners 32500 Northwestern Highway Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 851-6770 sales@theshirtbox.com www.theshirtbox.com A modern-day, trend-setting haberdashery carrying a wide range of men’s shirts, ties, sportswear and more SIGN-A-RAMA – Brighton Mike Favoretto, Owner 5050 S. Old US Highway 23 Brighton, MI 48114 T (810) 494-7446 F (810) 494-9023 mikefav@signarama-brighton.com www.signarama-brighton.com Full-service sign center using the latest technology and highestquality products to produce custom signs for businesses Sharf Construction Deleir Sesi, Vice President 35502 Mound Road Sterling Heights, MI 48310 T (586) 722-7378 F (586) 883-6456 deleir@sharfconstruction.com www.sharfconstruction.com Chaldean- and Jewish-owned company specializing in insurance, restoration, remodeling and new construction services Walker-Miller Energy Services Melanie Steele, Vice President of
Operations 440 Burroughs Street, Suite 517 Detroit, MI 48202 T (313) 366-8535 F (313) 366-4946 steele@wmenergy.com www.wmenergy.com Energy management, optimization and efficiency company Upgrade to Business Glacial Energy Fadi Bidawid, Business Development Manager 24631 Jefferson Avenue
NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:
tiffany.douglas@bankofamerica.com www.bankofamerica.com Multinational banking and financials services corporation with 231 branches and 546 ATMs in Michigan Cbeyond Steve Boyce, Sales 27555 Farmington Road, Suite 100 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 919-4400 F (248) 919-4613 steve.boyce@cbeyond.net www.cbeyond.net IT and communications services
Hydro Giant
Hydro Giant is a hydroponic indoor gardening supply store that’s already sprouted five locations: Dearborn, Southgate, Detroit, West Bloomfield and Pontiac. Founder and Owner Martin Yono hopes to take the concept to the franchising level. The business carries a full line of products that help growers “create Mother Nature in their basement.” Ninety-five percent of customers are medical marijuana users, says Yono, who also owns an Allstar Cellular store. Hydoponics entails growing plants in nutrient-rich water and makes the growing process faster. Yono says he doesn’t fret about the tumultuous legal climate surrounding Michigan’s medical marijuana law. “I’ve been in business for 13 years and have learned that if you can’t control it, you can’t let it worry you,” he says. Call (855) HYDROGIANT; HydroGiant.com. Saint Clair Shores, MI 48082 T (248) 408-8472 F (248) 856-4305 fadi.bidawid@glacialenergy.com www.glacialenergy.com A complete commercial utility provider for both electricity and gas
New Individual Members Salim Gasso salimgasso@gmail.com Dr. Raad Jajo raadjajo@hotmail.com Klint Kesto kkesto@co.wayne.mi.us John Oram jzoram@yahoo.com
Renewed Corporate Members Bank of America Tiffany Douglas, Senior Vice President, Market Manager 2600 W. Big Beaver Road Troy, MI 48084 T (248) 631-0347
provider offering more than 30 productivity-enhancing applications Central Michigan University Rita Somo, Marketing Coordinator 1650 Research Drive, Suite 300 Troy, MI 48083 T (248) 526-2631 F (248) 526-1581 rita.somo@cmich.edu www.cmich.edu Public university offering 200 academic programs at the undergraduate, master’s, specialist and doctoral levels Charter One Bank Michelle Zellen, Communications Manager 27777 Franklin Road Southfield, MI 48034 T (248) 226-7750 F (248) 228-9406 michelle.zellen@charteronebank.com www.charteronebank.com Full-service banking institution providing clients with personal and business financial solutions Clear Channel Radio Michael Isabella, Director of Marketing & Promotions
27675 Halsted Road Farmington Hills, MI 48331 T (248) 324-5843 F (248) 848-0405 michaelisabella@clearchannel.com www.ccdetroit.com A global media and entertainment company specializing in mobile and on-demand entertainment and information services for local communities and premiere opportunities for advertisers Dean Foods / Country Fresh Kevin Begin, General Manager 355 Mart Street SW Grand Rapids, MI 49548 T (616) 243-0173 F (616) 243-5926 kevin_begin@deanfoods.com www.enjoycountryfresh.com American food and beverage manufacturing and distribution company Dollar Castle Eddie Denha, President 7031 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 201A West Bloomfield, MI 48322 T (248) 539-3100 F (248) 539-1778 eddiedenha@dollarcastle.com www.dollarcastle.com Michigan-based dollar store chain with 22 locations in Metro Detroit Sherwood Food Distributors Earl Ishbia, CEO 12499 Evergreen Road Detroit, MI 48228 T (313) 366-3100 F (313) 892-1771 eishbia@sherwoodfoods.com www.sherwoodfoods.com Headquartered in Detroit, operating distribution centers totaling more than 1 million square feet of refrigerated warehouse space with more than a million cases in stock in more than 50 categories Wayne State University Dr. Ahmad Ezzeddine, Associate Vice President Educational Outreach & International Programs 656 West Kirby Street, 4129 FAB Detroit, MI 48202 T (313) 577-4450 F (313) 577-4354 avpoutreach@wayne.edu www.wayne.edu A public research university, consisting of 13 schools and colleges offering more than 400 major subject areas to over 32,000 graduate and undergraduate students
FALL 2011 CHALDEAN COMMERCE
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Members
new & renewed members Renewed Business Members A & L Market Neal Ayar, Owner 10826 Joy Road Detroit, MI 48204 T (313) 834-2920 aandlmarket@sbcglobal.net Convenience store with an extensive range of liquor, beer and wine Alkamano & Associates CPA, P.C. Jason Alkamano, CPA 32000 Northwestern Highway, Suite 180 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 865-8500 F (248) 865-8501 jason@alkamano.com www.alkamano.com Certified public accounting firm American Rentals Stacy Hart, Sales Executive 4901 W. Grand River Lansing, MI 48906 T (800) 637-1110 F (517) 323-7446 stacyhart@wereintents.com www.wereintents.com Tent rentals for all occasions AutoSmart America Bassim Robin, Owner 21532 Van Dyke Avenue Warren, MI 48089 T (313) 531-0400 F (313) 531-4805 bassim@autosmartamerica.com www.autosmartamerica.com Pre-owned automotive dealer
sales@99panic.com www.99panic.com Full-service residential and commercial security provider with local monitoring and dispatch center Clawson Pharmacy Gabe Zawaideh, Owner 560 W. 14 Mile Road Clawson, MI 48017 T (248) 280-0115 F (248) 280-1026 gzawaideh@gmail.com Full-service pharmacy
NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:
daryl@embfh.com www.embfh.com Full-service embroidery company Farmer John Food Center Sam Sattam, Owner 9731 Harper Avenue Detroit, MI 48213 T (313) 921-0015 F (313) 921-0162 Farmer.johns@yahoo.com www.farmerjohnmarket.com Supermarket featuring quality meat, dairy and produce
Duo Restaurant and Lounge
Just opened in September, Duo Restaurant and Lounge is a sophisticated addition to Metro Detroit’s dining and nightlife scene. Partners Danny Foumia, Ricky Manjo and Suhel Kizi have created a unique venue for upscale American cuisine from Chef John Del Protosto, formerly of Northern Lakes Seafood. Noted restaurant designers and architects Ron & Roman transformed an unassuming strip mall storefront into a slick, urbane setting with couches, faux-fur pillows, black tables and chairs, chandeliers of rebar and crystals, and artfully draped fabrics. Oversized photographs of famous duos – Sonny & Cher, Sinatra & Martin, John & Yoko – grace the walls. The restaurant serves food until 2 a.m. to accommodate the late-night crowd. They plan to eventually open for lunch as well. 29555 Northwestern Highway, Southfield, MI 48034; (248) 996-9929. DineDuo.com Consumers Party Shoppe Mark Savaya, Owner 20040 McNichols Road W Detroit, MI 48219 T (313) 531-3031 F (313) 531-3160 mark_savaya@yahoo.com Convenience store with an extensive range of liquor, beer and wine
Farmers Best Supermarket Mike Awdish, Owner 18246 Wyoming Street Detroit, Mi 48221 T (313) 345-3745 F (313) 345-3751 farmersbest@ymail.com Supermarket featuring quality meat, dairy and produce
Capital Sales Company Sam Haddad, President 1471 E. Nine Mile Road Hazel Park, MI 48030 T (248) 542-4400 F (248) 542-2100 csccapital@aol.com Independent grocery wholesale and distribution company
Elite Valet Parking Richard Abbo, President T (248) 851-PARK O (877) 912-PARK rabbo@eliteparkingsolutions.com www.eliteparkingsolutions.com Valet parking services and parking lot management services for corporate, hospitality clients and private parties
Food Palace Super Market Randy Kassab, Owner 4809 E. 7 Mile Road Detroit, MI 48224 T (313) 892-1940 F (313) 892-2769 food_palace1@yahoo.com Supermarket featuring quality meat, dairy and produce
Central Alarm Signal, Inc. Robert Hakim, President 13400 W. Seven Mile Road Detroit, MI 48235 T (313) 864-8900 O (800) 99-PANIC F (313) 864-8903
EmbroidMe of Farmington Hills Daryl Veit, Owner 27857 Orchard Lake Road Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 994-0105 F (248) 994-0156
Beaumont Pharmacy West Bloomfield LLC Heather Gallozi-Akrawi, R.Ph. 6900 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 104 West Bloomfield, MI 48322 T (248) 855-5505 F (248) 855-5504 beaumontrxwb@yahoo.com Full-service pharmacy
14
CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL 2011
Gasso Group LLC Najah Gasso, Managing Member 20320 W. Eight Mile Road Southfield, MI 48075 T (248) 353-4754 F (248) 353-1266 najahgasso@comcast.net Commercial real estate development
Hampton Inn Detroit/Novi Basil Bakal, Owner 169 Loop Road Commerce Township, MI 48390 T (248) 624-8100 F (248) 624-0500 dttni_hampton@hilton.com Quality, value-priced hotel in Oakland County Hazelcrest Place Apartments Keisha Coleman, Property Manager 100 Hazelcrest Place Hazel Park, MI 48030 T (248) 542-5386 F (248) 542-1351 hazelcrestplace@associatedmanagement.net www.ncr.org/hazelcrestplace Affordable senior and low-income housing and health care Hertz Schram, P.C. Jay Yasso, Partner 1760 S. Telegraph Road Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 T (248) 335-5000 F (248) 335-3346 jyasso@hertzschram.com www.hertzschram.com Law firm specializing in business, criminal law, estate and securities International Outdoor Randy Oram, President 28423 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 489-8989 F (248) 489-8990 randy@iobillboard.com www.iobillboard.com Outdoor advertising agency Intrastate Distributors Inc. Tim Dabish, President 6400 E. Eight Mile Road Detroit, MI 48234 T (313) 892-3000 F (313) 892-2104 office@towneclub.com www.intrastatedistributors.com Beverage wholesale corporation that sells water, juice, soda pop and beer to retail accounts Jappaya Law, PLC Shawn Jappaya, J.D., CPA 7125 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 222 West Bloomfield, MI 48322 T (248) 626-6800 F (248) 626-6805 sjappaya@jappayalaw.com www.jappayalaw.com Full-service law firm offering a range of legal services with an emphasis on business and tax-related matters
July 15, 2011 – October 20, 2011
Jonna Construction, LLC Frank Jonna, CEO 39533 Woodward Avenue, Suite 150 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 T (248) 352-1550 F (248) 352-8674 fgjonna@jonnaco.com www.jonnacompanies.com Commercial and institutional building construction company Jonna Enterprises, LLC Al Jonna, Treasurer T (248) 346-4786 aljonna@comcast.net Judeh & Associates Jumana Judeh, President 22952 Outer Drive Dearborn, MI 48124 T (313) 277-1986 F (313) 277-8634 jumanaj@judehonline.com www.judehonline.com Real estate valuation and consulting firm Kullen & Kassab, PC Burt Kassab, Attorney 31000 Northwestern Highway, Suite 100 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 538-2200 F (248) 538-2201 bkassab@k2lawyers.com www.k2lawyers.com Law firm specializing in commercial transactions and litigation Level One Bank Patrick Fehring, President & CEO 30201 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 250 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 737-0300 F (248) 737-7195 pfehring@levelonebank.com www.levelonebank.com Locally based bank with the sophistication of a big bank, the heart of a community bank and the spirit of an entrepreneur Lodging Enterprises, Inc. Faiq Konja 4257 Margate Lane Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 T (248) 865-8802 ftkonja@aol.com Full-service hotel and lodging MATCHaldean, LLC Theresa Sitto, Matchmaker 7 West Square Lake Road Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 T (248) 758-2303 matchmaker@matchaldean.com www.matchaldean.com Matchmaking services
MEP Engineers, LLC Steve Metti, Principal 30903 W. 10 Mile Road, Suite B Farmington Hills, MI 48336 T (248) 488-9822 F (248) 488-9811 steve@mepmi.com www.mepmi.com Engineering and technical services for the mechanical, electrical and plumbing disciplines Morpol Industrial Corporation Nofal Paulus 32000 Northwestern Highway, Suite 172 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 855-9320 F (248) 855-9370 morpol@sbcglobal.net www.morpol.net International engineering firm Oakland University Ronald A. Sudol, Dean, College of Arts and Sciences Registrar’s Office 101 N. Foundation Hall Rochester, MI 48309 T (248) 370-2140 F (248) 370-4280 sudol@oakland.edu www.oakland.edu Public university in Oakland County offering 132 undergraduate and 124 graduate programs One Source Talent Anthony Toma, President 3250 W. Big Beaver Road, Suite 526 Troy, MI 48084 T (248) 816-7900 F (248) 816-7910 anthony@onesourcetalent.com www.onesourcetalent.com Talent agency that maintains an interactive database of models, actors and clients looking to fulfill creative requests and needs Parkway Foods Louay Nona, Owner 13210 E. Jefferson Avenue Detroit, MI 48215 T (313) 823-2444 F (313) 823-9637 parkwayfoods@yahoo.com Supermarket featuring quality meat, dairy and produce RKA Petroleum Companies, Inc. Kerry Rehbine, Retail Branding Rep 28340 Wick Road Romulus, MI 48174 T (734) 946-2199 F (734) 946-4772 krehbine@rkapetroleum.com
www.rkapetroleum.com Fuel management and petroleum company Roumel Sheena, CPA, PC Roumel Sheena, CPA 29500 Telegraph Road, Suite 100 Southfield, MI 48034 T (248) 304-8888 F (248) 304-8889 roumel@roumelsheenacpa.com www.roumelsheenacpa.com Certified public accounting firm Shenandoah Country Club Lee Sharkas, General Manager 5600 Walnut Lake Road West Bloomfield, MI 48323 T (248) 683-6363 F (248) 682-3957 lsharkas@shenandoahcc.net www.shenandoahcc.net Banquet hall, conference center and public golf course Smile America Dental Center Nidaa Abdal, DDS, Owner 30890 W. 10 Mile Road Farmington Hills, MI 48336 T (248) 478-0900 nabdaldds@yahoo.com www.smileamericadds.com Comprehensive dentistry Toma & Associates CPA, PC Peter Toma, CPA 28552 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 110 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 254-3500 F (248) 254-3501 petertoma@tomacpa.com www.tomacpa.com Certified public accounting and consulting firm Tradewell Distributors Sahir Gappy, President 12821 Northend Avenue Oak Park, MI 48237 T (248) 542-7924 F (248) 542-9924 tradewelldist@yahoo.com Independent food wholesaler and distributor Transworld Title Company Douglas S. Proctor, Managing Member 31000 Northwestern Highway, Suite 210 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 487-2626 F (248) 487-2630 twtc@transworldtitle.com www.transworldtitle.com Residential and commercial title insurance and escrow services
Victor Saroki & Associates Architechts PC Victor Saroki, FAIA, President 430 N. Old Woodward Birmingham, MI 48009 T (248) 258-5707 F (248) 258-5515 vsaroki@victorsaroki.com www.victorsaroki.com Architectural firm Vineyard Market Place Ron Asmar, Owner 32418 Northwestern Highway Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 855-9463 F (248) 855-0070 ron@vineyarddeli.com www.vineyarddeli.com Café, deli and catering Wonder Foods Fadi Hermiz, Owner 10450 Shoemaker Street Detroit, MI 48213 T (313) 923-2675 frank48071@yahoo.com Supermarket featuring quality meat, dairy and produce
Renewed Individual Members Nicolette Acho nicolette.acho@plantemoran.com Faisal Arabo farabo@ft.newyorklife.com Harry Barash hbarash@bealegroup.com Rafat Ita ita@lssm.org Kevin Jappaya kjappaya@thomasduke.com Joseph Kassab jkassabict@aol.com Channelle Kizy-White ckizy@kizylaw.com Anthony Mona anthonymona@yahoo.com Reda Nafso rnafso@jvsdet.org Manuel Najjar Allan Sefton aseftonins@aol.com William Thomas williambill.thomas@gmail.com
FALL 2011 CHALDEAN COMMERCE
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Marketing
Avoiding Cliches to Truly Communicate
E by Don tanner
Figure out what truly makes you different and then celebrate it consistently.
ach holiday season, we are inundated with advertising, marketing and promotional messages like no other time of the year. Perhaps your ads are among them. What will get your products and/or services noticed? What will help you rise above the clutter? Here are a few thoughts for a new approach. Let’s start with your message. Is it truthful, genuine and informative or is it the same old “ad-speak” that we’ve all seen and heard a million times? Over my 30 years of working in the media and public relations fields, I’ve written thousands of print and broadcast ads. Early in my career, in radio, we actually posted in the production bullpen a sheet of clichés to avoid at all costs. Among them: For all your [blank] needs We do it all, from A to Z Our courteous and knowledgeable staff Talk to the rest, then call the best. You get the idea. Sometimes, I find that individuals think that because they hear or see these “throw-away” generic phrases in the marketplace, they feel they need to use them too. Wrong. After all, what do they really say about your (or any) particular company, product or service? Absolutely nothing. Certainly nothing that would help you stand apart from the competition. Instead, figure out what truly makes you different and then celebrate it consistently. Maybe it’s price. Maybe it’s customer service. Perhaps it is the expertise of the professionals who work for you and serve your customers. Identify those differentiators and then communicate them consistently in all of your marketing efforts. Be specific, not vague and clichéd.
CONFERENCE continued from page 9
would go for real estate, though Patterson predicted that property values will continue to drop through 2014. “There are some real bargains out there,” he said. Jackson recommended several Detroit neighborhoods as prime for investment, including 16
CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL 2011
New Center, Mid-Center, downtown and the riverfront. Several large companies, he said, are offering their employees incentives to move into the city. Ficano echoed that he would buy in downtown Detroit and also at the Aerotropolis, a project planned to encompass 60,000 acres of land in Wayne and
Look Who’s Talking Along with developing effective messaging in your communications, it is also important to develop a consistent “look.” This includes for your website, marketing materials, advertising and social media. And, once again, it is important to be mindful of striving to stand out without being over the top. I’ve seen it a thousand times. Everyone has a nephew who designs websites in his spare time, a cousin who dabbles in photography, a friend who designs ads for the school newspaper. It is here that the old adage, you get what you pay for, rings true almost without fail. When designing a website, marketing piece or ad, shop around for quality professionals that do such work fulltime for a living. In this marketplace and at this time, the level of talent that is out there is outstanding and value-driven. Strive for professionalism and a certain sophistication in this area. Considering stock art or photography? Consider that those same images may well show up in your competitor’s materials. Be original instead. Thinking about utilizing “bursts” (you know, the comic book-like graphic “explosions” in which you might place prices or key words) in your print materials? Don’t do it! That’s a been there, done that, tactic that is tired and over-utilized. It all gets back to the all-important idea of creating a brand look and message that is unique, effective, professional and, in turn, resonates with existing and potential clients and customers. Be genuine. Be different. Be compelling. And, be effective. Don Tanner is a founding partner of Tanner Friedman, a strategic communications firm specializing in traditional and emerging media relations, marketing and public relations counsel. Visit: TannerFriedman.com.
Washtenaw Counties surrounding Detroit Metro and Willow Run airports. He believes the project will attract time-sensitive manufacturing, e-commerce fulfillment, telecommunications and logistics, and offices for business people who travel frequently by air. The discussion got a bit heated over proposed Right
to Work Zones, which would allow areas where employers would be prohibited from requiring workers to be union members. The concept is fiercely opposed by labor unions. “I don’t think it’s the panacea some people think it is,” Jackson said. Ficano said he is firmly
Legislative Update
Liquor Tax Legislation Signed into Law Legislation was recently signed by Gov. Rick Snyder to allow retailers to be competitive with restaurants, bars, and catering service providers. Retailers no longer will pay the 1.85 percent tax on sales of hard liquor/sprits. These bars, restaurants and caterers have been exempt from this tax, so Snyder made the playing field level for everyone. The new law will take effect in October 2012. No explanation in terms of how the state will make up for the loss of $14 million in revenue that this tax generated.
Mortgage Fraud to Be a Felony Governor Snyder also signed legislation to make mortgage fraud a felony in Michigan. Falsifying information on loan applications and filing any false documents with respect to a real estate transaction will be taken very seriously. Snyder has made it clear that anyone taking advantage of homeowners — from banking institutions to mortgage firms — will face a felony.
America’s War in Iraq Coming to a Close President Barack Obama has declared the war in Iraq over and will withdraw all U.S. troops by the end of the year. Current U.S. military personnel presence in Iraq is at about 40,000. The decision to withdraw all troops stems from a deal that was brokered between the U.S. and Iraq in 2008 during the Bush Administration. While many are very supportive of the plan, others believe a complete withdraw will compromise Iraq’s security situation. The only troops to remain in Iraq are Marines assigned to the U.S. Embassy and Consulate, and a private security force of about 5,000 people to protect U.S. diplomats.
No-Fault Insurance Debate Takes Shape in Lansing A Republican-sponsored bill by in the Michigan House of Representatives (HB 4936), introduced by opposed to the idea because it would hurt investment. “It would start to divide this state right away,” he said. Patterson took issue with Ficano’s response, noting that the proposal is to create zones, not cover the entire state. “I’m for it big time. We can test it and see how it works.”
Rep. Pete Lund, is stirring debate throughout the state. The bill would impose limits on the lifetime PIP (Personal Injury Protection) benefits to people seriously injured in auto accidents. Michigan voters have twice voted to keep the current measures in place but the bill aims to overturn that. In addition to lifetime PIP coverage limits, the bill creates a fee schedule for hospitals and doctors and puts limits on home healthcare services. Critics of the bill believe that it shifts the burden to taxpayers to pick up the tab for those seriously injured in an accident that wasn’t their fault and that caused them to lose insurance. Those who support the bill, such as Michigan Insurance Commissioner Kevin Clinton, say it is necessary because the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association, which provides medical coverage of more than $500,000, is going broke. Other critics do not like the component of the bill that protects it from citizen referendum once it becomes law. Under the Michigan Constitution, any bill that has an appropriation funding attached is barred from referendum, so citizens will not be able to repeal the law. A $50,000 appropriation is attached to the end of the 42-page bill, which Lund said is required for a report and study as to its effects.
No Movement on Obama Jobs Bill More than 300 days and no jobs bill signed by Congress. At press time, the House was expected to debate the Jobs Bill to consider President Obama’s call to repeal a 3 percent tax on companies that contract with the federal government. This has gained widespread bipartisan support. The tax went into effect in 2005 during the Bush Administration. Many people are wondering if the president’s $447-billion jobs plan will work. The last stimulus package yielded almost three million new jobs in the United States and resulted in the lowering of the unemployment rate by a full percentage point over the last three years. Deficit reduction can materialize if Americans get back to work. The increase in employment numbers and infrastructure spending can aid in economic recovery for many years to come.
Addressing Ficano directly, he said, “We don’t do it because we are intimidated or bullied by the unions? No, let’s try it.” Jackson noted that he has been given responsibility for the light rail project that will go along Woodward Avenue from Eight Mile to downtown Detroit. He conceded that the system will
most likely not be a money maker. “I don’t know of any transit project that makes a profit,” he said. “It’s good for the community.” During audience participation, festival producer Jonathon Witz decried the often testy relationship between Wayne and Oakland counties. “I don’t sense it as bickering;
by Johnny Oram
Retailers no longer will pay the 1.85 percent tax on sales of hard liquor/ sprits.
it’s a matter of principle,” Patterson responded. “When Bob and I disagree, it’s not bickering. We have points of view.” Detroit is on the upswing, Jackson said. “There is a buzz in Detroit that we haven’t had before,” he said. “This time the renaissance is more than one building.” FALL 2011 CHALDEAN COMMERCE
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Socials
Speaker in the House John Boehner (R-Ohio), Speaker of the House, met with community leaders at Shenandoah Country Club on August 11. Speaker Boehner was joined by more than 30 community, business and civic leaders including Secretary of State Candice Miller and other members of the National Republican Congressional Committee. After hearing from community members, Boehner asked Miller to keep him specifically apprised of issues dealing with Christian Iraqis so that he and his office can offer their assistance. 1
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Lt. Gov. Calley Visits Michigan Lieutenant Governor Brian Calley met with a group of the Detroit Independent Grocers at the chamber office on August 17. Calley discussed his views on tax and economic development policy and mentioned that the Snyder administration is looking for ways to eliminate the state’s personal property tax. He assured the group that the state will not pursue individual project subsidies such as the one involving Whole Foods in Detroit, and said that the administration is investigating the state’s involvement in the matter.
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Think Pink Fighting breast cancer — not the miserable weather — was top of mind for the three hardy souls who once again participated in the Making Strides event on Belle Isle on October 15. The women — Valerie Cholagh, Sharon Hannawa and Sathab Abbo-Ousachi — braved heavy rain and high winds to benefit the American Cancer Society. The chamber team raised nearly $2,000!
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Meet the CEOs • Mike Fezzey, the new president of Huntington Bank’s Southeast Michigan region, was the guest of honor at the August 24 Meet the CEO. Huntington, a regional bank committed to Midwest markets, has more than 600 local branches across six states: Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Kentucky. Fezzey met with chamber members over dinner at Shenandoah Country Club. • On September 28, we hosted Linda Orlans, the CEO of Orlans Associates PC, a Troy-based law firm that specializes in bankruptcy issues. • Dr. Patricia Maryland, President and CEO of St. john Providence Health System, was our Meet the CEO guest on October 26. The Meet the CEO events are held several times a year and allow industry heavy-hitters to learn more about the Chaldean community.
1. John Boehner, center, with Frank and Judy Jonna, Martin Manna and Ismat Karmo 2. Lieutenant Governor Brian Calley 3. Linda Orlans 4. Dr. Patricia Maryland 5. Mike Fezzey 6. Valerie Cholagh, Sharon Hannawa and Sathab Abbo-Ousachi 18
CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL 2011
2011 Annual Report and Membership Directory Debuting January 31, 2012
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Section
2012 Calendar of Events January 26 Quarterly Networking Meeting March 23 Ninth Annual Awards Dinner May 10 Quarterly Networking Meeting May 17 Third Annual Chaldean Day in Lansing June 8-10 Seventh Annual Chaldean Festival June 21 Ninth Annual Golf Outing August 8 Quarterly Networking Meeting September 13 Industry Outlook October 18 Annual Business Luncheon November 14 Annual Meeting and Board Election December 6 Annual Member Christmas Party
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