Chaldean News - July 2007

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:22 AM

VOL. 4 ISSUE VI

Page 1

METRO DETROIT CHALDEAN COMMUNITY JULY 2007

$

2

www.chaldeannews.com INSIDE CELEBRATING CHALDEAN CULTURE CFA COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY MEDIA BIAS?

The Chaldean News 26555 Evergreen Road, Suite 250 Southfield, MI 48076 PLEASE DELIVER BY JULY 1, 2007

PERIODICAL

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:22 AM

Page 2

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:22 AM

Page 3

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 3

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:22 AM

4 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

Page 4

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

12:05 PM

Page 5

CONTENTS

JULY 2007

THE CHALDEAN NEWS VOLUME 4 ISSUE VI

on the cover 25

WAKE-UP CALL

BY JOYCE WISWELL

Christians rally for awareness

features 28

ALL ONE PEOPLE?

BY JOYCE WISWELL

Will – and should – Chaldeans and Assyrians unite?

32

LAZY REPORTING

BY KEN MARTEN

Media often inaccurately portray Chaldeans

35 25

CELEBRATING CHALDEAN CULTURE

BY VANESSA DENHA-GARMO

Second annual festival features community flare

36

‘WIN-WIN SITUATION’

BY STEVE STEIN

Camp Brighton sale finally goes through

28

38

departments

10

6

FROM THE EDITOR

9

YOUR LETTERS

10

NOTEWORTHY

10

NANA SAYS

12

CHAI TIME

14

CALC CORNER

16

HALHOLE!

20

RELIGION

23

OBITUARIES

38

ECONOMICS AND ENTERPRISE

35

Selling Arbonne: The beauty is in the details

BY JENNIFER KORAIL

45 45

EVENTS ECRC Blessing Ceremony CFA Commencement Ceremony CACC Golf Outing

46

50

CLASSIFIED LISTINGS

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 5

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:22 AM

Page 6

from the E D I T O R

Better Way To Get Away Package

69

$

From

* Per Person, Per Night

Your Escape Includes: • First-Class Accommodations • $50 Free Slot Play • $10 Water Lily Or Firefly Buffet Breakfast Coupon • A Bonus Coupon Packet

For Reservations, Call 1-877-2-EAGLE-2

Mt. Pleasant, MI www.soaringeaglecasino.com

Experience More. *Room rate is valid multiple nights, Sunday through Thursday, now through July 31, 2007.

All package inclusions are per person. Certain restrictions apply. Offer based on double occupancy and availability. Subject to change or cancellation at any time.

6 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

SE-1053_4.417x12_JCNAfinal.indd 1

Far Gone and Fed Up one? These are questions s we were organizing top of mind for many people the contents for this on both sides of the issue. month’s issue, I was No, it did not end up being in quandary: should we or the cover story but it is defishould we not focus on Iraq nitely worth covering. as a cover story? Readers I feel compelled to give have responded in the recent you not only the serious past that they have read VANESSA news in community but also enough about Iraq and were DENHAsome light-hearted stories. tired of the coverage.

GARMO We all need a little fluff in our As the Editor in Chief, it EDITOR lives when we become fed was not an easy decision. I up with current situations out had to weigh the pros and of our control. So we offer lots of piccons. I came to the conclusion after tures of recent events, including the in-depth discussions with our annual Chaldean Federation of Chaldean News team that the recent American graduation ceremony. events in the Metro Detroit area, Some of the graduates receiving California and Windsor were the scholarships are recent immigrants deciding factors. I realized that the from Iraq.

Chaldeans in the U.S. are demonAnd turn to the back of this issue strating their frustration for the first and check out photos from the time on a large scale. Bottom line: Chaldean American Chamber’s golf people are fed up with the situation in outing. A group of members took time Iraq — so it appears. off from network news coverage on The demonstrations and Memorial Mass that we cover in this issue clearly depict the sentiHow far gone is this war? ments of our community. Our cover story is an accumulaIs there any hope for tion of a series of stories on what is happening to the survival for the Christians in Iraq. In addition to what is going on here in Christians? the U.S., the Pope expressed his concern for our fellow Iraq to play a round at Shenandoah Christians suffering in Iraq to Country Club.

President Bush following the brutal Take a break next month from your death of Fr. Yagheed and four deaeveryday hectic lives and enjoy a fun cons. day at a festival. I give you this month How far gone is this war? Is there a sneak peak of the second annual any hope of survival for the Chaldean Festival. Again, the Christians? These are a just a couple Chaldean Chamber of Commerce of questions on the minds of people. hosts the festival in Southfield.

Joyce Wiswell attended the Step away from your frustrations Memorial Mass last month and talked for a moment this summer and take to several community members. We your friends and family for some food wanted to know what they think and entertainment with a Chaldean about the war and the recent develflare. opments. Is this war far gone? Are they truly fed up?

You may be asking: if Iraq was not the cover story, what would have been? The answer: The Great Debate: Assyrian versus Chaldean. I also wondered how many people Alaha Imid Koullen really care about this issue. Then we (God Be With Us All) started to do some research. I was Vanessa Denha-Garmo surprised to discover the mixed vdenha@chaldeannews.com reviews on the issue and the heated debates that ensued. It was educational.

Correction At first glance, it may not seem that many people care about this Jennifer Oram was misidentified in the topic until you start to investigate it picture of a group of Chaldeans who and learn a more about it. Are we the traveled to the Holy Land (Noteworthy, same people? Should we unite as June 2007).

A

6/25/07 4:37:37 PM

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:22 AM

Page 7

6 Series

Audi Q7

Cooper S

Bavarian BMW 45550 Dequindre Rd. Shelby Twp., MI 48317 248.997.7700 www.bavarianmotorvillage.com

Front, Eitel, left, Regina and right, Helga Dahm

Audi of Rochester Hills 45441 Dequindre Rd. Rochester Hills, MI 48307 248.997.7400 www.audiofrochesterhills.com

Bavarian Motor Village 24717 Gratiot Ave. Eastpointe, MI 48021 586.772.8600 www.bavarianmotorvillage.com

Motor City Mini 45550 Dequindre Rd. Shelby Twp., MI 48317 248.997.7700 www.motorcitymini.com

THREE GREAT BRANDS, ONE STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE CHALDEAN NEWS 7 JULY 2007

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:22 AM

8 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

Page 8

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:22 AM

Page 9

your L E T T E R S

Amalgamating Greatness “History is a clock that people use to tell their time of day. It is a compass they use to find themselves on the map of human geography. It tells them where they are, but more importantly, what they must be.” —John Henrik Clarke The story “A Student of History” [May 2007] was enlightening and important. For years people have eschewed the discussion of intercultural marriages, particularly in the Latino and Chaldean communities.

Creating this new dialogue is not only important, it is essential to people understanding how common children are being born who are the products of intercultural couples. It is important to also discuss the achievements these individuals make because they are not only bringing light to their specific ethnic groups, they are delivering it to the world.

Ulises Casab is someone whose achievements should be heralded for various reasons. Not only because he is Chaldean and Mexican, but also because the wisdom he has imparted to the world is a testament that hard work and commitment to living a productive life can be achieved if aspired.

He is a model to be emulated by young Latino and Chaldean children globally.

While some will shun the idea of intercultural relationships, the reality is that they exist and they are growing exponentially. They are not diminishing. Trying to evade this fact is simply unrealistic.

There is no question that the preservation of one’s culture must be encouraged and emphasized.

Without it a people will vanish into the annals of history. Dr. Casab is preserving the memory of various cultures through his work so they will be long remembered.

There is much to be done to pro-

duce mutual trust and understanding in our communities. Despite the effort involved, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

Acknowledging the existence and reality of our intersecting cultures is a good place to start. Through that process we can emerge with a new unified mindset that will equip us to preserve our rich histories and cultures and secure our proper place in history.

The Latino and Chaldean communities are vilified by enough people intent on seeing our demise. Let us not foster their intentions by fueling their ignorance. Instead, let us defeat the ignorance with intelligence and wisdom.

This is a contribution we can make to humanity and to carrying on the wisdom of Dr. Casab and others who have dedicated their lives to preserving our legacy.

– Efren Paredes, Jr.

We the Chaldean people need to unite with one voice so that our politicians may hear our voice and respond to this dire situation for our people. I hope that this matter does not fall on deaf ears.

The situation in Iraq hit close to home recently. On May 31 my family was notified that two of my uncle’s sons were kidnapped in Iraq by Muslim extremists. We have not heard of their whereabouts or any ransom demands. One can only wonder the tormenting that families must go through not knowing whether their loved ones are being tortured or killed.

My wish is that for all of our people to be safe and allowed the dignity to be free of all religious persecution.

– Michael Manna

Protect the Christians Up in Smoke I have noticed a growing problem with the Chaldean youth. They seem to think that smoking the hookah is healthy and safer then cigarettes.

Nobody seems to be doing anything about this problem. The restaurants that serve this only want money.

– Asam Hirmiz

Sad Times The situation in Iraq is getting worse by the day. More and more Chaldeans are being killed, kidnapped and kicked out of their homes without being allowed to take any of their belongings.

As a Christian and Iraqi American, I am horrified, heartbroken and frustrated at the cold-heartedness, especially by Christians regarding the plight of the Iraqi Christians. How many Iraqi Christians must die and abandon their ancestral land and have their churches bombed by the hands of Iraqi Muslims for the world to interfere and stop this religious cleansing?

If the Iraqi Christians are facing these atrocities right now while the U.S. Army and the coalition forces are in Iraq, one could not imagine what would happen to the Iraqi Christians when the troops pull out of Iraq. The outcome will be total Sunnis and Shiites collaboration to force Iraqi Christians out of their territories. It could also be translated as extermination of a people from their ancestral land.

“Already half of Baghdad’s Christian communities have fled the capital; Basra is almost emptied of an ancient vibrant Christian presence; already, eight priests have been kidnapped … nowhere is safe for Christians to be in Iraq,” writes Bishop Sarhad Jammo, the Chaldean Bishop of San Diego.

Iraqi Christians are facing persecution from the Islamic extremists who are forcing Christian women to wear the veil and some extremists go further to impose the “jizya” (religious taxation) on Christians.

It is sad to say that today many Iraqi Christians feel nostalgic to the days of the dictator Saddam; at least they were living under a secular ruler.

Now, Iraqi Christians have to live under terror.

The U.S. government supported the new Iraqi constitution that clearly infringes the rights of non-Muslims.

The second article of the new Iraqi constitution says: “Islam is the official religion of the State and it is a fundamental source of legislation.” This unmistakably demotes Iraqi Christians to the second citizen status and puts them under the Sharia law.

The U.S. government did make a difference in Iraq when they removed Saddam from power, but that success was transient and they have replaced Saddam with a bigger tyrant: Islamic fundamentalism.

– Zaman Dawood

Letters to the editor are welcome.

Please keep your letter to less than 500 words and include your city.

The Chaldean News reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and length. Submit your letter via email to info@chaldeannews.com or mail to: The Chaldean News, Letters to the Editor, 26555 Evergreen, Ste. 250, Southfield, MI 48076

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 9

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:22 AM

Page 10

NOTEworthy

Stylist Raphael Isho poses with some of his hair models.

Crain’s Has Kudos for Bank of Mi The Bank of Michigan was named the fastest-growing bank by Crain’s Detroit Business on its list of the 40 largest banks and thrifts published on June 25. Crain’s noted that the bank’s assets increased 65 percent between 2005 and 2006.

“And it’s still growing quickly,” Crain’s said. “In the first quarter of 2007 alone, its assets had grown to $58.6 million.”

“We’ve been able to establish ourselves as a place that will go the extra mile to help people accomplish their personal and business goals,” said Executive Chairman Michael Sarafa, “and we’ve been able to do so in a professional and confidential way.”

Opened in early 2005, the Bank of Michigan targets the Chaldean community in Southeast Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Capitol Bancorp Inc.

Young Hero Saves Lives Kyle Hannawa was among three young men recently honored by the Bloomfield Board of Education for heroic actions.

The 13-year-old was driving a pontoon boat on Cass Lake when he came upon a burning boat.

He maneuvered his pontoon and cut off the front Rep. Dave Law of the burning powerboat, the only part not on fire. and Kyle Hannawa He then got the passengers, a man and his 4-yearold son, off the boat before it completely became engulfed in flames.

Kyle received official state tributes honoring his bravery and heroism from State Reps. David Law and Chuck Moss.

A Cut Above Raphael Isho won the championship title for long hair at an international hair styling competition in Bangkok, Thailand, in late May. “I compete a lot all over

the world – from Germany to Italy to Japan to Bangkok,” said Isho. “I am the first American boy – not only the first Chaldean – to win awards.”

The competition, held by the Confederation Medical

Foreign-born Kids Helped at Warren Schools Warren Consolidated Schools (WCS) offers several programs to help young, foreign-born children get up to speed in English.

“We are targeting students whose home language is something other than English to get them into a literacy program to build their fluency,” said Brian Walmsley, the district’s administrator of assessment and accountability.

This summer, Warren is offering two three-week classes for some nearly 100 4-year-olds at the Warner Educational Center in Sterling Heights.

“The goal is to get them to develop their English to the level so there is not that barrier when they get to kindergarten,” said Walmsley. “We are really excited about this.”

WCS has also expanded its preschool and nursery school offerings to accommodate some 1,000 children. Thanks to a federal grant, about 100 children — nearly 20 percent of them Chaldean — will attend for free an English-as-a-SecondLanguage nursery or preschool for the entire school year beginning in the fall. The program normally costs $385 per semester.

“This is huge for our community,” said Sue Kattula, who sits on the WCS school board. “The grant will help for the Chaldeans who cannot afford preschool or do not qualify for free preschool.”

Participants must live in the WCS district. Learn more by calling Vicki Beebe at (586) 698-4421.

In other district news, St. Joseph Chaldean Catholic Church in Troy has reached an agreement with WCS’ Flynn Middle School for catechism classes. Some 500 children participate in the program on Saturdays, said Msgr. Zouhair Toma (Kejbou).

“When I first came to the parish we had the catechism program going on in different buildings of the church on different days of the week. At any given time you would find a group of children, often unsupervised with not enough staff,” he said. “This is a more proper learning environment.”

On July 14, 188 children will celebrate their First Holy Communion at St. Joseph.

10 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

Rami Ryan Sarafa of Bloomfield Hills has graduated from Harvard College, reportedly the first Chaldean to do so. He received a B.A. in Government and Near Eastern Languages & Civilizations with high honors. Sarafa’s honors thesis, “From Mesopotamia to Michigan: Identity and Political Preferences in the Chaldean-American Diaspora,” earned him magna cum laude status.

Rami Ryan Sarafa’s extracurricular activities at Harvard included: the Harvard Society of Arab Students, the Harvard International Business Club, Iraqi Reconstruction & Redevelopment at the Harvard Institute of Politics, and the Palestine Solidarity Committee.

He begins a position with EFG-Hermes Investment Banking in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, this month.

Chaldean Character Graces Novel A novel that features a Chaldean character has been published by Vina St. Fran, who lives in Metro Detroit.

“One Foot Outside the Door” tells the story of an AfricanAmerican woman in Southfield who is set to marry a wonderful man until her old Chaldean boyfriend, named Basher Bazzi, resurfaces.

The novel, part one of a trilogy, is available for $15 from Zam Publishing; visit www.zampublishing.com.

NANA says

For laryngitis, drink warm chickpea juice.

While playing with your baby don’t hold him upside-down or he’ll go cross-eyed.

Eat a lot of dessert when breastfeeding because it’s healthy for the baby.

Thanks to all who shared their Nana-isms.

Keep them coming to info@chaldeannews.com, or write to The Chaldean News, 26555 Evergreen, Suite 250, Southfield, MI 48076.

ILLUSTRATION BY SCOTT MICK

Harvard Has Chaldean Grad

Coiffure and the Creative Artist Technique, included competitors from more than 60 countries.

Isho, who has been cutting hair since the age of 14, owns Raphael International Salon in Sterling Heights.

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:22 AM

Page 11

Mystery Name Did you know that Portland, Oregon, once had a Chaldean Theatre? Later known as the Kenton Theatre, it opened in 1927, closed on May 1, 1957 and was known for its grand Wurlitzer pipe organ.

The building still stands today as an auto repair shop.

Oregon historians are not sure where the name came from but several said they assumed it was for its “exotic ring,” noting that Portland also has theaters named Baghdad, Oriental, Venetian, Egyptian and Granada from the same era.

Downtown Portland, circa 1926; a 1925 ad for the Chaldean Theatre.

Jonna Wins Historic Award New Amsterdam Activitation I, LLC, has received the 2007 Governor’s Award for Historic Preservation. The company is a subsidiary of the Chaldean-owned Jonna Companies.

New Amsterdam Activitation I acquired the abandoned Graphic Arts Building in Detroit and in 2006 was part of a project team that completely rehabilitated the building into 38 loft-style apartments. Frank Jonna is the Jonna Companies’ CEO.

People Kirk K. Yousif is the new administrative fellow at Oakwood Healthcare System in Dearborn. He is a graduate of Wayne State University and the University of Michigan, and a councilman for the City of Oak Park.

Peter Acho was the subject of a June 7 profile in the Detroit News.

Acho is a volunteer with Citizens for Better Care, an advocacy group that visits nursing homes and looks out for their residents. “I am glad to get the word out about the

organization,” said Acho, who is also on the group’s board of directors.

Joe Barbat was one of nine individuals to receive the 2007 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in the Central Great Lakes Region. Barbat, who won in the Business Joe Barbat Services category, is the founder of Wireless Toyz.

CN Hits the Road Kirk K. Yousif

Peter Acho

The Chaldean News flew to Australia along with Julie Garmo, seen below, standing in front of the 75-year-old Sydney Harbor Bridge.

Bring the Chaldean News along on your travels and we’ll do our best to publish your picture. Send to info@chaldeannews.com or to the Chaldean News, 26555 Evergreen Road, Suite 250, Southfield, MI 48076.

Please be sure to include the names of all people pictured and your phone number.

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 11

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:22 AM

Page 12

C H A I time

CHALDEANS CONNECTING

COMMUNITY EVENTS IN AND AROUND METRO DETROIT JULY 2007

[Friday, July 20] Poolside Party: Fundraiser at Shenandoah Country Club for the Chaldean Chamber PAC includes music, hors d'oeuvres and drinks. Minimum donation $75. 8 p.m.-midnight. (248) 538-3700.

[Wednesday, July 4 – Sunday, July 8] Comerica CityFest: Formerly known as the TasteFest, the free festival in Detroit’s New Center includes food, live music, children’s activities and more. View the music lineup at http://www.newcenter.com/cityfest.

[Saturday, July 21 – Sunday, July 22] Arab & Chaldean Festival: 36th annual festival takes place at Hart Plaza in Detroit with live music, fashion shows, children’s activities, art gallery and more. Noon to midnight both days. www.arabandchaldeanfestival.com.

[Saturday, July 7] Walk for Hunger: The Chaldean American Ladies of Charity hold a five-mile walk starting at 9 a.m. through Drake Park in West Bloomfield to benefit Gleaners Food Bank. Registration is $10. (248) 352-5018 or info@calconline.org.

[Friday, July 13 - Sunday, July 15] Walk with Jesus Retreat: All high school girls are welcome on this retreat organized by Mother of God Church. For information, e-mail MotherofGodChurch@yahoo.com.

[Thursday, July 19] Summer Blush: Poolside hair and fashion show, with entertainment by DJ Chris B, at Shenandoah Country Club is open to both members and nonmembers ages 21 and over. Tickets, $35, includes appetizers and drink voucher. Rene, (248) 683-6363.

[Thursday, July 19 – Sunday, 22] Concert of Colors: Arab Community Center for

Economic and Social Services and New Detroit present the 15th annual festival featuring diverse musical acts, ethnic food, arts and crafts, fun for kids and public workshops on community, race and culture. All performances are free, though a $100 “Groupie” ticket buys prime seating. In and around the Max M. Fisher Music Center, 3711 Woodward Avenue in Detroit. Visit www.concertofcolors.com.

[Friday, July 20] Golf Outing: The Indian Chamber of Commerce holds a golf outing at Shenandoah Country Club beginning at 9 a.m. and wrapping up with lunch and a speaker. $100 per person or $360 per foursome. (248) 848-8034.

[Friday, July 27] Co-Ed Poker Tournament: Open to Shenandoah Country Club members. $100 ticket includes buffet dinner and cash bar. Dinner beings at 8 p.m. and the tournament kicks off at 9 p.m. Rene, (248) 454-1932.

[Saturday, August 4 – Sunday, August 5] Chaldean Festival: Second annual festival presented by the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce includes music, food, crafts, raffles and more. Noon-10 p.m. both days; Southfield Civic Center Lawn. www.chaldeanchamber.com.

(See page 33 for more on the festival.)

Please let us know what is going on in the community. Send your information to The Chaldean News, Editorial Department, 26555 Evergreen, Suite 250, Southfield, MI 48076

We’re going the extra... forty-thousand miles.

At DTE Energy we’re going the extra mile for our customers - making our service safer, more efficient and more reliable than ever. Over the next five years, Detroit Edison plans to use infrared scanners and cameras to inspect our entire electrical system, nearly 3,000 circuits and 40 thousand miles of electrical lines. All in all, service to 2.2 million customers will be enhanced.

It’s part of a 5 billion dollar investment in the communities we serve - for superior service and reliability.

T h e Po w e r o f Yo u r C o m m u n i t y

12 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

e = D T E®

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

12:38 PM

Page 13

PUBLISHED BY The Chaldean News LLC

EDITORIAL EDITOR IN CHIEF MANAGING EDITOR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Vanessa Denha-Garmo Joyce Wiswell Ken Marten Steve Stein

ART & PRODUCTION Alex Lumelsky with SKY Creative Zina Lumelsky with SKY Creative Joe Sesi PHOTOGRAPHERS Nora Bahrou Downs David Reed Brad Ziegler

CREATIVE DIRECTOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

OPERATIONS Interlink Media Paul Alraihani Paul Alraihani Joyce Wiswell Tiffany Haio

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS CIRCULATION CLASSIFIEDS ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

SALES Interlink Media SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVE Sandra Denha Jolagh SALES REPRESENTATIVE Lisy Starr MANAGERS

Vanessa Denha-Garmo Martin Manna Michael Sarafa

MICHIGAN SUBSCRIPTIONS: $20 PER YEAR THE CHALDEAN NEWS • 26555 EVERGREEN • STE 250 • SOUTHFIELD, MI 48076 WWW.CHALDEANNEWS.COM • PH: 248-355-4850 PUBLICATION: The Chaldean News (P-6); Published monthly; Issue Date: July, 2007 SUBSCRIPTIONS: 12 months, $20. PUBLICATION ADDRESS: 26555 Evergreen, Suite 250, Souithfield, MI 48076; Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Rates is Pending at Farmington Hills Post Office" POSTMASTER: Send address changes to "The Chaldean News 26555 Evergreen Road, Ste. 250, Southfield, MI 48076"

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 13

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:23 AM

Page 14

Play Ball!

CALC corner

It was a long fun Saturday for the children in Project Venture Baseball. Immediately after senior planting, the children enjoyed a nice lunch from Tubby’s Submarine.

Then the kids were bused to Bradford Park in Southfield to play a practice game between Oak Park and Detroit. A special thank you to the facilitators and coaches for making that day a memorable one for the children.

Thanks also to the following sponsors for making Project Venture Baseball a success: BNP Media, Glory Supermarket, Associated Food and Petroleum Dealers, Talk a Lot Wireless, United Wireless, Kirk Masters & Sons Jewelers, Jesus Christ University and Orchard Development.

NOTE from the PRESIDENT About 100 members attended the CALC 46th Annual Meeting at Shenandoah, which was a great success. As you read in last month’s issue, LeeAnn Kirma has filled our vacant spot Clair Konja on the executive board. I had the chance to personally introduce her that evening.

Members listened to the various committee chairpersons give reports on 2006 events. Members complimented us on our evening reports and hard work from the years past. Also, CALC Attorney Burt Kassab gave an update on the audit and answered any questions or concerns. We truly would like to thank Mr. Kassab for his hard work and dedication to CALC. That evening Ann Antone reported on a project that the CALC will be working on for a long time – the incoming Iraqi refugees. As many of you have already heard, the CALC is working very closely with the Chaldean Federation of America (CFA) and many other local organizations. We are expecting about 7,000 refugees by the end of the year. With this in mind, we are asking for help from our members and community. We are in desperate need of storage or space to store clothing, furniture, household items wares and any other useful items that are donated. We sometimes unfortunately have to refuse items because we have nowhere to store them. Unfortunately, they are then donated to organizations that resell them.

Our goal is to have a space where we can display the items and have families pick up what they need at no charge. The past 10 years we have picked up and delivered at the CALC expense, but we can no longer handle that cost. Please, if you have or know someone with a storage facility available, call the CALC office at or e-mail us at (248) 352-5018 or visit www.calconline.org. The families will be arriving soon.

Planting for Seniors Every year the CALC brightens up Chaldean Manor in Southfield, with potted plants for our seniors who live at the complex. The plants were generously donated by Raymond Hesano this year and we thank him for his generosity. The plants were potted by our youth facilitators and the children from Oak Park and Detroit Project Venture program. All 68 units received tomatoes and green pepper plants. This was a great multi-generational project and it was fun watching the children interact with the seniors.

Most of the children speak Chaldean so they could communicate with the seniors.

About Girls – Empowered Voices Learn Importance of Healthy Lifestyle

Clothing the Needy

On May 16, the Chaldean American Ladies of Charity Empowered Voices Program was visited by Dr. Anita Bodiya.

Dr. Bodiya presented information regarding female development, sexually transmitted diseases, and health and nutrition.

She also instructed our girls on how to perform breast selfexams and explained the process and necessity of having a regular physical checkups.

Dr. Bodiya also stressed the importance of eating breakfast, something many girls tend overlook or ignore.

Empowered Voices girls expressed appreciation for learning valuable information about being girls and healthy eating.

CALC held a clothing drive at Key Elementary in Oak Park on May 22-23. The attendance was excellent.

Volunteers were Julia Hakim, Gloria Kassa, Norma Hakim, Betty Babbie, Rosemary Antone. A special thanks to Hana Manna and Khelud Naimy for contacting the families and allowing us to use their classroom. Thank you too everyone — we received tons of clothes, household items, shoes, toys and bedding, all in great condition. Many blessings were given by the families. Unfortunately, there are still many families in need. Due to the refugees arriving soon, the need will become greater.

Give Peace a Chance We sincerely thank all the young people who entered our Peace Poster Contest. We received so many beautiful entries and choosing a winner in each category was extremely difficult. Thanks to Chaldean News staffers Sandra Denha Jolagh, Lisy Starr and Joyce Wiswell, as well as ad designer Joe Sesi, for acting as judges.

And the winners were, from left: Alexis Konja, 15; Emil Warda, 10; Amelia Warda, 13

ADVERTORIAL

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:23 AM

Page 15

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 15

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:23 AM

Page 16

HALHOLE!

[Births]

Cameron Salim Cameron Salim George was born on January 10, 2007 at 8:33 a.m. He weighed 6 lbs., 7.6 oz., and measured 19.5 inches long. Proud parents are JR & Claudine George.

Alyssa Sue

rting at Cribs Sta $

499

eds, ction of B Great sele and Bedding. s er ss Dre

47705 West Rd., Suite B106, Wixom, MI 48393

248-344-7770

Little girls are so much fun, we thought we’d have another one! Big sister Serena announces her little sister, Alyssa Sue Jarbow, born on March 27, 2007. She weighed 7 lbs., 7 oz., and measured 20 inches. Proud parents are Steve & Monica Jarbow. This makes the third grandchild for Nissan & Suham Jarbow and the fifth for Suad & the late Kamil Toma. Godmother is Lisa Kakos.

Cameron Salim

Gabrielle and Isabelle

SOUTHFIELD PEDIATRIC PHYSICIANS George L. Blum, M.D. Robert M. Blum, D.O. Marshall Blondy, M.D.

Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine Evening and weekend appointments available

SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

Carrie Busch, M.D. We participate with the Vaccine for Children Program

Katherine Erlich, M.D.

Southfield Pediatrics West

Ehud Kapen, M.D. Sandhya Patel, M.D. Mara Rubenstein, M.D. Jennifer Supol, D.O.

(248) 661-9100 Southfield Pediatric Physicians, P.C. 31500 Telegraph Rd. Suite 105 Bingham Farms, MI 48025

Stacy Zide, M.D. CHALDEAN SPEAKING

7416 Haggerty Road West Bloomfield, MI 48322

STAFF

(248) 540-8700

More beautiful than the best diamonds and pearls, Giselle Sesi would like to announce the birth of her sisters — a set of identical twin girls! Gabrielle and Isabelle Sesi were born on March 21, 2007. Gabrielle made her debut at 1:36 p.m. weighing in at 5 lbs., 15 oz. and 19 inches long. Isabelle was born at 2:15 p.m. weighing 6 lbs., 4oz. and 20 inches long. Thankfully blessed parents are Devin & Hala Sesi.

Gabrielle and Isabelle are the sixth and seventh grandchildren of Korkess & Maryam Sesi and the second and third grandchildren of Rahim & Janet Bahri. All are overjoyed at the arrival of the heaven-sent treasures.

Alyssa Sue

Gabrielle and Isabelle

Nicholas Michael It is with much pride and joy that we announce the birth of our first child, Nicholas Michael Sheena, on December 16, 2006. He weighed 6 lbs., 2 oz., and measured 19 inches long.

Proud parents are Michael & Manal Sheena. Nicholas is the first grandchild for Ihsan & Muntaha Sheena and also the first for Salman & Rejina Konja. Godparents are uncle David Konja & aunt Tania Nonah

Nicholas Michael

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:23 AM

Page 17

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 17

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:23 AM

Page 18

HALHOLE!

[Births]

Anthony Jonah A true gift of love was lovingly placed into our arms and into our hearts forever ... Anthony Jonah was born on March 1, 2007 at 8:35 p.m. weighing 6 lbs., 14 oz., and measuring 21 inches long. Thankful parents are Ziyad & Claudette Yacoub. Adoring grandparents are Zuhair & Thekra Yacoub and Joe & Samira Bashi.

Honored godparents are Firas Yacoub and Adele Bashi.

Anthony Jonah

[Engagements]

Ryan and Crystal Thamir & Waffa Hermiz would like to announce the engagement of their son, Ryan, to Crystal Samona, daughter of Sami & Muna Samona. The couple was engaged on June 2, 2007 at the Farmington Manor and plans a wedding next summer. Ryan graduated from Wayne State University with an accounting degree and Crystal has a marketing degree, also from Wayne State.

Ryan and Crystal

Elton and Christine Elton Jamoua and Christine Antwan (Bakkal) are engaged and plan to marry in August 2007. Elton’s parents are Salem & the beloved Nidhal Jamoua, and Christine’s parents are Adil & Badria Antwan (Bakkal). The wedding will take place at St. George Chaldean Catholic Church with a reception following at Penna’s of Sterling Heights.

May they always share the blessings of life together, and a love to last for all time.

Christine and Elton

Janan and Clifford We are pleased to announce the engagement of Janan Dalaly to Clifford Sitto. Janan is the daughter of Mr. & Mrs. John Dalaly and Clifford is the son of Dr. & Mrs. Emil Sitto.

The couple is planning a spring 2008 wedding at the Royal Park Hotel in Rochester.

Janan and Clifford 18 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:23 AM

Page 19

Let the Honeymoon Begin...

ggggg ggggggggggg

ggggg ggggg

g

Expert ďŹ tting for every look

248-642-2555 265 S. Old Woodward n South of Maple Road n Birmingham n Hours: Mon-Sat. 9:30-6:00

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 19

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:23 AM

Page 20

RELIGION

PLACES OF PRAYER THE DIOCESE OF ST. THOMAS THE APOSTLE IN THE UNITED STATES ST. THOMAS CHALDEAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE 25603 Berg Road, Southfield, MI 48033, 248-351-0440 Mar (Bishop) Ibrahim N. Ibrahim www.chaldeandiocese.org MOTHER OF GOD CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 25585 Berg Road, Southfield, MI 48034; 248-356-0565 RECTOR: Rev. Manuel Boji PAROCHIAL VICAR: Rev. Wisam Matti MASS SCHEDULE: Weekdays except Tuesday, 10 a.m.; Tuesday, St. Anthony prayer at 5 p.m. followed by mass at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, 5:30 p.m.in English Sunday: 8:30 a.m. in Arabic, 10 a.m. in English, 12 noon in Chaldean SACRED HEART CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 310 W. Seven Mile Road, Detroit, MI 48203, 313-368-6214 PASTOR: Rev. Jacob Yasso MASS SCHEDULE: Friday, 6 p.m. in Chaldean, Sunday 11 a.m. in Chaldean MAR ADDAI CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 24010 Coolidge Hwy, Oak Park, MI 48237, 248-547-4648 PASTOR: Rev. Stephen Kallabat PAROCHIAL VICAR: Rev. Shlaman Denha MASS SCHEDULE: Weekday masses at 12 noon.

Sunday 10 a.m. in Sourath and Arabic; 12:30 p.m. in Sourath ST. GEORGE CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 45700 Dequindre Road, Shelby Township, MI; (586) 254-7221 PASTOR: Rev. Emanuel Shaleta ASSISTANT PASTOR: Fr. Basel Yaldo MASS SCHEDULE: Sunday: 8:30 a.m. in Chaldean, 10:30 a.m. in English, noon in Chaldean, 2 p.m. in Arabic; baptisms, 3 p.m. on Sundays

20 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN CHURCHES IN AND AROUND METRO DETROIT ST. JOSEPH CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 2442 E. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, MI 48083, 248-528-3676 PASTOR: Msgr. Zouhair Toma PAROCHIAL VICAR: Rev. Ayad Hanna MASS SCHEDULE: Saturday, 6 p.m. in English; Sunday, 8 a.m. in Chaldean, 9:30 a.m. in Arabic, 11 a.m. in English, 12:30 p.m. in Chaldean ST. MARY HOLY APOSTOLIC CATHOLIC ASSYRIAN CHURCH OF THE EAST 4320 E. 14 Mile Road, Warren, MI 48092; 586-825-0290 RECTOR: Fr. Benjamin Benjamin MASS SCHEDULE: Sunday, 9 a.m.

ST. THOMAS CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 6900 Maple Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48322, 248-788-2460 PASTOR: Rev. Frank Kalabat Rev. Emanuel Rayes (retired) PAROCHIAL VICAR: Rev. Jirgus Abrahim MASS SCHEDULE: Monday-Friday 10 a.m. in Sourath, Saturday 5 p.m. in English, Sunday 9 a.m. in English, 10:30 a.m. in English, 12:30 p.m. in Sourath ST. TOMA SYRIAC CATHOLIC CHURCH 2560 Drake Rd., Farmington Hills, MI 48335, 248-478-0835 PASTOR: Rev. Toma Behnama MASS SCHEDULE: Sunday 12 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 6 p.m.

All masses are in Syriac, Arabic and English

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:23 AM

Page 21

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:23 AM

Page 22

True Religion Rock & Republic Paige Premium Denim Hudson Jeans Michael Stars J Brand Denim of Virtue Level 99 Splendid 1921 Ranahan Fashionista T-Bags

myspace.com/urbanbluesdenim

22 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:23 AM

Page 23

obituaries

Jabrail Zia Ayar Jabrail Zia Ayar was born in Mosul, Iraq, on July 1, 1931.

He was the son of Zia and Marim (Masour) Ayar. He came to United States in 1980 with his wife Hanni (Loussia) and five children.

He worked at the Detroit Golf Club for 19 years; he lost his wife Hanni (Loussia) Ayar in January 1999. His wife, children and grandchildren were extremely important to him; he enjoyed the simple things in life. He died on June 7, 2007 and will be missed dearly.

He is survived by his five children, Linda (Jeffrey) George, Laith (Sundus) Ayar, Raied (Mary Ann) Ayar, Luay (Rita) Ayar and youngest daughter Lina Ayar. He was blessed with 11 grandchildren: Brandon and Brigitte George and Alexander, Andrew, Olivia, John Paul, Maria Rose, Adam Jude, Hannah, Luke and Jonah Ayar. He will be in our thoughts and prayers always.

Amanda Dalou Amanda Dalou was the sweetest person in the world and had a smile that would light up a room. She was born on June 30, 1986 in Oak Park. She was only 20 years old when she passed away on April 28, 2007. She lived in Sterling Heights when she passed away.

Amanda loved being around her family and relatives. She loved to laugh and hear jokes. She loved being the center of attention at home as well as in school. Amanda had a great gift of making you smile without saying a word. She also enjoyed watching home movies and listening to Arabic music. She will be terribly missed by her family and relatives but the memories of her will be embedded in our minds forever. Her strength and courage throughout her long battle is an inspiration to all.

An angel has left us but she is watching over her

loved ones in heaven and is safe in the arms of God. We love you Amanda and may you finally rest in peace.

Anahid Yaldoo Jabiro Anahid Yaldoo Jabiro was born on December 20, 1939 and died on April 1,2007, after a long and brave battle with cancer. Anahid is survived by her lovely husband Michael Jabiro and her children Jeffrey, Renard (Jennifer), Clark (Candince), Glenn (Tracy), Crystal Kajy (Amil Kajy), and her 16 beautiful grandchildren who were the love of her life.

Anahid loved to entertain family and friends; you always knew when you would come to her house you were always greeted with a warm smile and a hot meal. Anahid loved going to church and that love and belief in God kept her strong and positive through all the pain and suffering she had to go through because she believed God had a better plan for her.

She was not considered an aunt to all her nieces and nephews but a second mother and her many friends looked at her as a sister not a friend, she was that special of a person. She would wake up every morning with a smile on her face and go to bed with that same smile no matter how much pain she was in. We who knew her and loved her will live our lives the same way as we deal with our pain and loss. God bless you Mom, we miss you and love you forever. Rest in peace.

Jonathan Latif Putrus Kas-Shamoun Jonathan Latif Putrus KasShamoun, beloved son, brother, nephew, grandson and friend to all, became our guardian angel on May 2, 2007.

From the day Jonathan was born on June 26, 1980, he was an angel in the making. He was faced with many health obstacles

during his 26 years but his perseverance and his willingness to fight kept him going.

Jonathan was a very business-savvy guy, which led him into becoming an entrepreneur and establishing a future for his brothers. With his friends and cousins he shared the love of sports; whether it was watching or going to games, he was always an avid fan.

Jonathan is survived by his parents, Hanaa and Latif Kas-Shamoun; older sister Nancy and two younger brothers, Steven and Alex Kas-Shamoun.

We will remember our son and brother always as a person with a fearless attitude and as a person who made every moment great. His vibrant personality and unique laughter will be remembered always. “You left us peaceful memories, your love is still our guide, and though we cannot see you, you are always at our side.” We love you Jon!

Wisam Sabri Shayota Wisam Sabri Shayota was born in Iraq on April 5, 1954 as the first child and oldest son to Meriamoo and the late Sabri Shayota. He immigrated to Detroit in 1979 and worked as a butcher, continuing this profession that he loved for nearly 30 years.

Wisam married Ibtisam Kassab in 1982 and had two children, Lisa and Sayber. He was a dedicated husband and father. Known for his amazing kabobs and excellent gardening skills, he is most revered for his devotion to his large and loving family. He died unexpectedly on May 3, 2007.

Not only is Wisam survived by his mother, wife and children, he is also survived by his new son-inlaw of eight months, Zahi Kassab; his siblings: Sue Jarbo (Bahi), Huda Jirgis (George), Nidal Hannish (Basil), Andy (Ban), Muntaha, Johnny (Afrah), Ahlam Kassab (Jeff), Freddy and Martha; his mother-in-law Hyatt Kassab (wife of the late Hermiz); his wife’s family, Shirley Cholagh (Waleed), Vivian Garmo, Ghassan (Julie), Nidal Kas-Shamoun (Samir), Wisam (Karen), and Nabeel (Suha); and his countless nieces and nephews. May he rest peacefully in God’s arms.

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 23

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:23 AM

Page 24

6/28/07

12:10 PM

Page 25

PHOTO BY NICK JOSE

CN0707_0152

wake-up call Christians rally for awareness

BY JOYCE WISWELL

T

hough they are hardly the first Christians to trapped, preventing recovery for hours. (A few days die, the June 3 murders of a Chaldean priest later, a Chaldean priest was kidnapped and, after a and three deacons has served to galvanize few weeks, released unharmed.) the community with the goal of making people For Iraqi Christians around the world, the muraware of the persecution facing Christians in Iraq. ders served as the proverbial straw that broke the The national media is catching on as well, camel’s back. Hundreds rallied in with recent television reports and print articles Windsor, Canada, on June 10 to bring outlining the plight of Christians. CNN met attention to the issue. In California, hunwith community leaders in Metro Detroit in dreds more showed up at the Federal May to learn about the issue.

Building on June 15 to march for On June 3, Chaldean priest Fr. Ragheed Christians. Chanting “Save Iraqi Ganni and three deacons were gunned Christians, protect our religion, protect down after leaving mass at the Church of Fr. Ragheed Ganni our rights,” people carried signs and wore the Holy Spirit in Mosul. According to the website tee-shirts with pictures of Fr. Ragheed. www.AsiaNews.it, the killers first demanded that “We are here to express our sadness, to implore the men convert to Islam. Their bodies were booby our government to do something on behalf of our

fellow Chaldeans and fellow Christians,” said Wadie Deddeh, a retired California state senator. “There were 1.2 million [Christians in Iraq] and now there are only 600,000. Where are they? I implore you, Mr. President, to use all the powers that you have to help the innocent Christian community in Iraq.”

Mr. Sarhad Jammo, bishop of California’s St. Peter Diocese, spoke passionately of his recent trip to Iraq.

“One hundred and fifty thousand in only a couple of years were evicted from Baghdad, forced out of their houses, out of their ancestral land. The Christians in Iraq were not immigrants, they were there thousands of years ago,” he said. “They have the original right to be, and to be free and to succeed and to flourish, but WAKE-UP CALL

Continued on page 26 JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 25

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:23 AM

Page 26

Raising Voices: In June, rallies were held in Europe and North America, includi A special vigil mass was held in Detroit, with a rally scheduled for June 30.

WAKE-UP CALL

26 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

how upset we are,” he said, “but I don’t know if it will make that much of a difference in stopping what is happening in Iraq. All I can say is that we must continue to pray for our people.”

PAYING HEED The mainstream media has caught onto the story, with the network news, CNN, Fox, the New York PHOTO BY PLINIO LEPRI/AP

Continued from page 25 nevertheless, [fundamentalists] want to clean it up.

And the whole world is watching.”

Demonstrations have also taken place in Sweden to protest the violence and show support for the establishment of the Nineveh Plains Administrative Area, which advocates say would be a safe haven for the country’s Christians. “The violence has now reached such a magnitude that we can label it ethnic cleansing,” said Swedish Member of Parliament Hans Linde, according to the EasternStar News Agency.

Closer to home, it was standing room only at a memorial mass held June 20 at Mother of God Church in Southfield. Community members showed up in force to remember Fr. Ragheed and his deacons and to pray for Iraq’s Christians. A rally was planned for June 30 in Southfield, after the Chaldean News had gone to press.

“It is very important to show our support to all the Christian people in the Middle East, especially Iraq,” said Thamir Lazgin Chirco after the service.

“I feel I need to help out in some way if I can,” said Bushra Orow, explaining why she felt compelled to attend the mass. “We want to make the world hear that we are being persecuted.”

Bishop Ibrahim Ibrahim, who recently returned from Iraq, said he was an eyewitness to devastation, destruction and death. “I am very upset about what I saw in Iraq,” he said. “If things continue the way they have, there is no hope for our people there.”

Bishop Irbahim praises the Chaldean community for organizing rallies but is not confident that they will have an effect. “It is good to speak out especially to let the outside world know what is going on and

Times, Washington Post and other prominent outlets covering the story. A meeting between President George Bush and Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican on June 9 also helped bring awareness to the situation. “[Pope Benedict] was concerned that the society that was evolving would not tolerate the Christian religion,’’ Bush later said at a news conference.

“He’s worrisome about the Christians inside Iraq being mistreated by the Muslim majority.’’

Bush said he assured the Pope that the United States was working hard to ensure that the Iraqi people live up to their constitution in treating Christians fairly.

WHAT’S NEXT? Community advocates were heartened by the approval of $10 million for religious minorities in the Nineveh Plains by the U.S. House Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs on June 12. Of that, $8 million will go toward internally displaced families and $2 million for microfinance programs.

Rallies in Sweden and California (top); U.S. President George Bush meets Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican on June 9 (above); the Memorial Mass at Mother of God (left)

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:24 AM

Page 27

COMMUNITY VOICES It was the wrong war to begin. Everyone in Iraq is suffering, lately the Christians more than others, I feel very sorry for them. I would like the Christians to stay in Iraq; if we leave, we have no footprint anymore. I want to see the U.S. government back the Christians up with territory like the Nineveh Plain.

— Thamir Lazgin Chirco, Sterling Heights The war is not right. We were very happy the first three or four days – we celebrated. Now it’s too bad. I was against Saddam but it was better under Saddam – he killed maybe 10-12 people a day but now 200-300 people a day are dying.

— Fred Damman, Sterling Heights I feel it’s a necessary war. All these Muslim radicals are making trouble and killing, trying to shake up the world. They want to drive the American troops out of Iraq. We can’t allow that. Under Saddam Christians were protected but you know what, he wasn’t that great.

— Bushra Orow, Sterling Heights

cluding Sweden, San Diego and Windsor, Ontario. .

HORROR STORIES According to some estimates, Christians in Iraq will be extinct in as little as 10 years. It seems virtually every Chaldean in Metro Detroit has a horror story to share of relatives back home. Tony Shamo of Sterling Heights told the Chaldean News of two cousins recently killed in Baghdad by insurgents.

“They put a sign on the men that no one could come to get the bodies,” Shamo said. “They lay in the streets for three days with dogs attacking them. One’s head was gone and another had half his body gone.”

Michael Manna of Farmington Hills tells the story of his uncle’s two sons who were kidnapped in Dora in late May. “Ten masked men with AK-47s forced their way through the front door,” he said. While some members of the family managed to escape out the back, the men snatched two of the children. “They

took them both and blindfolded them and their hands were bound,” Manna related. “There have been no demands of ransom or information regarding their safety, which only worsens the situation.”

According to “Incipient Genocide,” a justreleased report from the Assyrian International News Agency, such stories are only too common.

Thirty-three churches have been attacked or bombed since June 2004, at least 13 women have been abducted and raped (causing some to commit suicide), five priests have been kidnapped and released after ransoms were paid, three priests and three deacons have been murdered, and 95 percent of liquor stores have been attacked, defaced or bombed. In one night, the report says, 500 Christian shops in a Dora market were burned.

Among the atrocities outlined in the report is the story of a 2-month-old infant who was kidnapped, beheaded, roasted and returned to its parents on a bed of rice, the decapitation of a 14-yearold boy and the crucifixion of another.

Christians remaining in Iraq are being forced to convert to Muslim or pay the tax known as jizya.

Dora, a Baghdad neighborhood long occupied by Christians, has been under increased attack. The U.S. military recently erected barriers around it to protect the residents.

Community advocates couldn’t help but groan when reading a front-page article in the June 10 issue of the Detroit News in which an Army spokesman says the Dora violence came as news.

“We’re aware that some Christians have left the area,” the newspaper quotes Major Kirk Luedeke, spokesman for the Army’s 1st Infantry Division. “But we weren’t aware until last month how widespread the situation was, after initially being led to believe it was a few isolated incidents of intimidation.”

I pray to God to end this bloodbath and the war. I wish for more protection for the Christians; they are like the martyrs in the first century of Christianity. The U.S. military is busy putting out fires and is not worried about the Christians.

— Remon Samir Jiddou, Commerce Township The war has made things worse for Christians, but if we get out, it will get even worse. I hope all the Iraqis will be in peace.

— Steve Sitto, Southfield If there is no love in [fundamentalists’] heart, only hate, the U.S. should leave. It was actually and honestly better under Saddam – he had no heart but he never hurt us Christians because we were honest, peaceful people.

— Amal and Emad Yousif, Novi Everyone supported being against Saddam, but it was the wrong war at the wrong time. They never sent the right people in the right place – they had no plan. We have to protect the Christians – the priest and deacons being killed is just one of a million stories. The Christians need global support.

— Tony Shamo, Sterling Heights We wanted to get rid of Saddam but the Christian people are suffering. I feel so sorry about the U.S. troops, they are so innocent.

The government should let the Christians into the U.S. – they work very hard.

— Nadhal Karmo, Bloomfield Hills PHOTOS BY DAVID REED

In other news, the U.S. government has agreed to accept 7,000 Iraqi refugees this year — a huge increase over the fewer than 800 who have been allowed in since the war began in 2003, but, critics say, still a drop in the bucket. Sweden, for instance, has taken in some 15,000 refugees and it is expected another 20,000 will seek asylum there.

According to a report by Refugees International, more than 2 million Iraqis have fled the country and at least 500,000 have been displaced within Iraq. Christians are particularly vulnerable because fundamentalists not only consider them infidels, but view them as sympathetic to the U.S. Army.

Thousands have fled to Syria and Jordan where they often live in poverty, unable to work or send their children to public schools.

The Chaldean Federation of America said Christian refugees will begin arriving in the Detroit area in August.

We’re not happy with the war and hope to God it stops soon. If the troops come home now, Iraqis can solve their problems better.

Under Saddam the Christians were not getting killed like today, but he was not that great.

— Amera Abdal, West Bloomfield

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:24 AM

Page 28

all one people?

Assyrian from Iran who is a past-president of the Assyrian American National Federation, she considers herself Assyrian.

Hopes for church unity were raised about 10 years ago but nothing came to fruition. A “Common Christological Declaration” between the Chaldean and COE churches issued in late 1994 details the comBY JOYCE WISWELL mon faith in Jesus Christ between the two entities.

“Living by this faith and these sacraments, it follows as Listen to the comments of Chaldean and Assyrian a consequence that the particular Catholic churches hat’s in a name? Shakespeare famously asked.

When it comes to the issue of Chaldeans community leaders and it’s easy to see the debate. and the particular Assyrian churches can recognize “We believe that Chaldeans are Assyrians who con- each other as sister Churches,” reads the declaration in and Assyrians, the answer is plenty.

A label is one of the chief sticking points between verted to Catholicism,” said Leonard Jacob, AASCM part. “… We pledge ourselves to do everything possible unity efforts between Chaldeans and Assyrians. If president. “Chaldeans are us – we are one nation, but I to dispel the obstacles of the past which still prevent the two groups do formally unite as one, what will believe the right term for the nation is Assyrian.” the attainment of full communion between our Said Hanibal Travis, an assistant professor of law Churches, so that we can better respond to the Lord’s they be called? Janey Golani, an active member of the Assyrian American Social Club of Michigan at Florida International University who has written call for the unity of his own, a unity which of course (AASCM), rejects the commonly proposed on the Armenian Genocide, in which many has to be expressed visibly.” But, in 1995, the COE sus“ChaldoAssyrian.” “It’s a term, not an identity,” she Christians perished, “I am half Catholic Assyrian or pended the dialog between the entities.

Chaldean. I consider them to be interchangeable.” said. “It’s insulting to both – what’s a ‘Chaldo?’”

In a recent interview with Zenit.org, Cardinal Dave Nona, chairman of the Chaldean American Walter Kasper, president of the Pontifical Council for What indeed? History does not help clarify matters much. “When Christianity got into Chamber of Commerce, believes Chaldeans have every Promoting Christian Unity, said he remains hopeful Mesopotamia in the first century AD, people had dif- right to keep the name they have used for the past 500 after a meeting with COE patriarch Mar Dinka IV. ferent names based on who ruled them,” said Ismat years. “No one can tell us we cannot use this name,” he He said he hopes “more effective forms of common Karmo, a member of the Chaldean American said. “You should accept us with the name we have.” witness and joint pastoral activities may be developed Karmo probably summed up the feelings of many between Catholic and Assyrian faithful, particularly Chamber of Commerce’s Iraq Task Force.

“Babylonian, Assyrian, Chaldean – those are histor- when he said, “I think that we waste too much time in the West, where Christians of all denominations on what we call ourselves. ical, not geographic names.” are facing the same pastoral challenges.”

In 1553, a schism in the Church Discussions continue quietly A. B. C. D. of the East (COE) led one branch between the two churches, said to follow the Catholic Church of Nona. “There is not a complete Rome. COE members began callbreakdown or antagonism between CHALDEAN ing themselves Assyrian, while the the two,” he said.

ASSYRIAN CHALDEAN CHALDEAN Pope called the new branch the Church of Babylon for the A SENSE OF URGENCY CHALDEAN ASSYRIAN Chaldeans. (Syriacs had their own If any good comes from the Iraq ASSYRIAN ASSYRIAN schism in the 5th century, some War, it may be that the country’s becoming Catholics under Rome’s Assyrians and Chaldeans unite to THE UNITY QUESTION: rule and others, called Jacobites, give themselves strength in numWHICH OF THE ABOVE ILLUSTRATIONS BEST DESCRIBES YOUR POINT OF VIEW? SEND YOUR RESPONSE TO INFO @CHALDEANNEWS.COM. who are orthodox.) Those names bers. As reported elsewhere in this have stuck to this day. issue, Iraq’s Christians are under Mar Sarhad Jammo, bishop of the St. Peter’s A ROSE IS A ROSE? increasing attack from Islamic fundamentalists who Diocese in San Diego, tackles the issue in a paper A lot more than labels stand in the way of official demand they pay a tax called a jizya, convert to called “Contemporary Chaldeans and Assyrians: unity. The Church of the East is not under Rome’s Islam, marry their daughters to Islamic fighters or One Primordial Nation, One Original Church,” on jurisdiction and thus does not answer to the Pope. leave the country. Some estimates say as many as a For the churches to unite, the COE would need to half-million Christians have fled Iraq in the past four the diocese’s website (www.kaldu.org): “If we pose the question. Who are the actual acquiesce to Rome – or the Chaldean Church would years, leading to worries that Christians will become Christians of Iraq, i.e. the Chaldeans, the Assyrians have to severe ties with Rome. Both scenarios are extinct in their indigenous land. as well as the Syriacs from the civil point of view? considered highly unlikely in the near future.

And the opinions continue to pour out.

Assyrian leaders say that for Chaldeans, the The answer should be: They are the descendants of “Right now, we don’t need formal unity at the the ancient inhabitants of Mesopotamia. To the church is the strongest element while Assyrians’ level of the churches or organizations in order to be question: What is their ethnic and cultural back- strongest force is the nation. “All over the world able to work together,” said Nona. ground? Then, I would answer: Study the history of Assyrians are not ruled by the church,” said Leonard.

“Unity is especially important now to help out Ancient Iraq; because that same history is their his- “Chaldeans in general are being led by the church struggling people in Iraq and overseas,” said Dr. tory; that same culture is their culture; that same and some organizations are led or controlled by the Noori Mansour, secretary of the Chaldean church. That’s what I’d like to see changed – the Democratic Forum. “We can still work together to Aramaic language is their language.

“To be fair to all sides,” the document states else- Bishop and clergy just concerning themselves with help our people.” where, “it is right to say that both names, the church.”

Travis agreed. “Certainly there should be societal “The church is the ultimate parent – it will never and political unity; it is a useful political alliance,” he ‘Chaldeans’ and ‘Assyrians’ are but two nomenclatures designating, from two different perspectives, happen,” countered Golani, who was raised DEBATE Chaldean. Since marrying Atour Golani, an Continued on page 30 the same people.”

Will – and should – Chaldeans and Assyrians unite?

W

28 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:24 AM

Page 29

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:25 AM

Page 30

DEBATE

Continued from page 28 said. “In the U.S., both communities benefit from a coalescing around politics.”

Less than a year ago, a new group was formed to address these issues. CASCA (Chaldean Assyrian Syriac Council of America) is funded by the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce, the Chaldean Federation of America, the Assyrian American National Federation and the Assyrian Council in Chicago.

“Right now we have a common destiny and that’s what binds us together. We all have to band together,” said Nona. “Fundamental Muslims don’t differentiate between Chaldean or Assyrian – we are all considered one group of infidels.”

CASCA advocates the establishment of a selfautonomous Nineveh Plain in northern Iraq where Christians can live and prosper. Advocates con-

30 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

sider it Christians’ “last stand,” but not all are in favor of the idea. “It is premature to work on this while our people are struggling for life,” said Mansour. “If Christians are all in one place they will be easier targeted by fanatics who want to eliminate them.”

Karmo traveled to Iraq in March for a conference on the Nineveh Plain plan. At that meeting, the term Surayeh was agreed upon to refer to all Chaldeans, Assyrians and Syriacs. “At stake is whether our people will be able to preserve themselves as the indigenous people of ancient Mesopotamia, or be set on the path of extinction from their very homeland within a few generations,” Karmo wrote of the issue in the May Chaldean News.

Atour Golani said he likes the idea but that the lack of infrastructure and security is problematic.

“They mean well but the strategy is not there,” he said of advocates. “At some point we would be targeted.”

A CENTURY AWAY? The dire situation in Iraq paves the way for formal church unity in perhaps 100 years, believes Atour Golani. “There will probably be no choice – everyone is running away from the homeland,” he said.

“Eventually they will have to come together in order to survive extinction.”

Karmo said the Vatican may eventually make some sort of compromise to appease the COE. “My son or grandson — or great-grandson — will see unification,” he said. “The new generations have much less tendency to be tribal.”

Nona is among the majority who believe unity will continue to progress on the grassroots level well before a formal merging of the churches. “The plight of Christians in Iraq is uniting different political and nationalistic groups,” he said. “There is a unity of purpose on this issue that is transcending these nationalistic differences.”

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

12:25 PM

Page 31

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 31

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:25 AM

Page 32

lazy reporting Media often inaccurately portrays Chaldeans

BY KEN MARTEN

T

he media, especially the news, is still getting it wrong. That’s the sentiment many Chaldeans share about how their ethnicity is portrayed in the news media – if it’s portrayed at all.

“They think everybody that comes from the Middle East is Arab, and they think everybody is Muslim,” said Amer Hanna Fatuhi, an artist and owner of the Mesopotamia Art Gallery in Ferndale.

“We are native Iraqis, but in Iraq there are the Kurdish, there are the Turkomens, there are the Armenians.

The American media is not representing these ethnicities in an accurate way.”

Teresa Tomeo, veteran broadcast journalist with more than 20 years of experience as a radio and television reporter and anchorwoman, agrees.

Tomeo worked for WKBD-TV 50, WXYZ-TV Channel 7, and today hosts “Catholic Connection” on Ave Maria Radio on WDEO AM 990.

“There’s a general lumping together of all people from the Middle East,” Tomeo said. “In the case of the Chaldean community, I saw a lot of bias when I worked in the TV news. Anchor persons would send me down to Dearborn to cover the Chaldean community.”

Dearborn, in Wayne County, is home to many Arab-Americans. But most Chaldeans actually live in the suburbs of Oakland and Macomb counties.

Tomeo, who lives in St. Clair Shores, said local television reporters and anchorpersons also routinely display a lack of knowledge regarding religion.

And because religion is often a key facet by which many ethnic groups define themselves, understanding religion often goes hand-in-hand with understanding various cultures.

“We have a large Muslim community, a large Jewish community, a large Catholic community [in 32 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

Metropolitan Detroit],” Tomeo said. “There was a lack of knowledge about religion. I don’t think they covered the various religious communities very well.”

In her recently released book, “Noise: How Our Media-Saturated Culture Dominates Lives and Dismantles Families,” Tomeo includes an explanation of why the media so often fails to portray distinct ethnic groups and religions. Across the country, reporters are often overworked and underpaid while newsrooms are understaffed and under-funded. The time and resources simply aren’t there.

“But I won’t let them off the hook that easily,” Tomeo said. “With the amount of resources that we have, especially with technology and e-mail, it’s not that hard to get in touch with people.”

Fatuhi said that while being lumped together with Arabs is erroneous, it’s not their error and he harbors no ill will toward them.

“My point of view is that I don’t have any problem with other ethnicities,” Fatuhi said. “We are not Arabs, we are not Muslims, but I have nothing against the Arabs. I’m just trying to correct the information. I hope the media will someday understand the difference.”

Mark Samano, bilingual coordinator for Hazel Park Schools, said the media’s portrayal of Chaldeans is much better today than it was 20 years ago. When he first moved to the United States in 1980, Chaldeans were classified as Christian Arabs.

If the same false perception exists today, Samano said it’s partially the fault of some Chaldeans within the community.

“Some of our people are not distinguishing themselves from Arabs,” Samano said. “There’s the Arab American and Chaldean Council [in Detroit], but there are no Chaldean Arabs. We should be thinking about how to differentiate ourselves. We are Christian, we are Catholic, and we have nothing to do with terrorists.”

As for generally categorizing the Chaldean community, Samano said mistakes still happen from time to time. He once took issue with how a television anchorman lumped Chaldeans with a certain criminal group while reporting a story about a member of the community who was suspected of organized crime activity.

“One time, I heard on TV ‘the Chaldean mob,’” Samano recalled. “I called Channel 7 and said they should look into the Chaldean community and see what percent are bad. If one Chaldean is bad, does that mean we’re all bad? Every house has a bathroom, but that doesn’t mean the whole house is a bathroom.”

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:25 AM

Page 33

Don’t let gambling get the best of you.

Please gamble responsibly.

Michigan Department of Community Health

Get the best of gambling by gambling responsibly.

That means having a plan, setting a budget and a time limit. There are lots of tips to help you get the most enjoyment out of gambling. There are also 20 signs that gambling is becoming a problem too.

If you think you or someone you know needs more information just call 1.800.270.7117 for help.

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 33

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

12:05 PM

Page 34

Game for some family fun?

Bring the whole family to the park – Comerica Park!

Fabulous Fireworks After every Friday and Saturday night home game.

Sunday Kids Day Free rides for kids 14 and under on the Comerica Carousel and Fly Ball Ferris Wheel, free face painting and clowns.

After the game, kids can go on the field and run the bases.

Weekday Value Pack 4 Upper Reserved Seats, 4 hot dogs and 4 soft drinks

ONLY $63!

Available for all Monday through Thursday home games (excludes 8.27).

For tickets call 866-66-TIGER or tigers.com

34 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:25 AM

Page 35

celebrating chaldean culture Second annual festival features community flare

BY VANESSA DENHA-GARMO

W

arm up those taste buds and dancing feet – the second annual Chaldean Festival, co-hosted by the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce (CACC) and the City of Southfield, is set to celebrate the rich culture of Detroit’s estimated 120,000 Chaldeans on August 4-5.

For those warmed-up feet, the two-day festival on the Southfield Civic Center Lawn includes live music, children’s activities and rides. And let’s not forget our savoring taste buds. The festival also includes more than 100 food vendors and merchant booths. Kid activities include airbrush tattoos, face painting and giant bubble wands, as well as a takratha eating contest, three-legged races, tug-owars and other games. You can also enter to win a 2007 BMW X5 and several other prizes.

“This festival is not just for the Chaldean community,” said Ed Babbie, chair of the festival and member of the CACC. “This is about celebrating diver-

sity and enhancing our relationships with the community at large. Anyone can have a booth at the festival or come and enjoy the festivities.”

The low temperatures and stormy weather posed a threat to the first day of last year’s festival, held last fall, when only handful of people turned out.

“We were really worried,” said Babbie. “But the next day was a huge success and more than 10,000 people came to the festival. This year we anticipate 30,000 people.”

There will be live performances by various Chaldean singers, as well as entertainment geared towards children. Both the Chaldean Voice Radio and MBN American Television will broadcast live at the festival.

The festival runs from noon to 10 p.m. both days. Admission is free. Proceeds benefit the Chaldean Chamber Foundation, a non-profit 501 (c3) charity.

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

12:25 PM

Page 36

‘win-win situation’

raising $30 million by the end of the city’s 200607 fiscal year by selling city property, with the Camp Brighton sale a key component.

“The Camp Brighton sale is very good news for the city,” Kilpatrick spokesman Matt Allen told the Detroit News after City Council’s June 27 vote. “We don’t need to be in the big camps

BY STEVE STEIN business. We need to be in the business of good government.” urt Kassab wants to clear up a misconception of the city’s jewels. He also said the camp would The Chaldean Church first expressed an about the Detroit City Council’s sale of 160 only be used by Chaldean children. interest in Camp Brighton 19 months ago and Kassab said that’s simply not true, adding that made its $3.5 million offer in November. Besides acres of Camp Brighton to the Chaldean Catholic Church. “This is a win-win situation,” the sale will offer Detroit youth their best oppor- the camp facilities, there are plans to build a said Kassab, the lawyer for the church. “Camp tunity to use the camp, located in Livingston’s youth center and a monastery on the property, Brighton will be improved and reopened, and County’s Genoa Township. which includes a 40-acre lake.

“Detroit kids Camp Brighton was donated to Detroit kids will be able to use it periodically at Father Manuel Boji, rector of Mother minimal cost. They won’t be barred from using it.” Detroit in the 1920s and for many will be able of God Church in Southfield, said while After voting against the sale of Camp Brighton years, it was a destination for city he understood City Council’s legitimate three times since February, City Council finally kids. But Detroit youth haven’t to use it concerns about the sale, he was frustrated approved the $3.5 million deal June 27 by the nar- used the camp, also called the that the sale process took so long. periodically rowest of margins, 5-4. Unless the issue is brought Detroit Recreational Camp, for “But that’s behind us now. Camp up for consideration again (a possibility because of many years despite $5 million in at minimal Brighton will give us an opportunity to the 5-4 vote), the sale will become official July 3. renovations between 1997 and serve the entire community,” Father Boji cost.”

Council members Kenneth Cockrel Jr., Sheila 2002. said.

Since 2006, Camp Brighton has Cockrel, Barbara Rose Collins, Martha Reeves and According to a report compiled by – BURT KASSAB Alberta Tinsley-Talabi voted to sell Camp Brighton. been open only for rentals. It costs Irvin Conley, director of the City Monica Conyers, Brenda Jones, Kwame Kenyatta $300,000 annually to maintain.

Council’s Fiscal Analysis Division, $2.5 million of and JoAnn Watson cast the dissenting votes.

Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick put Camp the Camp Brighton purchase price will come from Kenyatta has been the most vocal opponent of Brighton up for sale two years ago in an effort to the Sam Kassab Fund of the Community the sale, saying Camp Brighton should remain one balance the city’s budget. Kilpatrick set a goal of Foundation for Southeast Michigan.

Camp Brighton sale finally goes through

B

Banquet Rooms Available

BOOK NOW FOR YOUR SPECIAL OCCASION Larco’s restaurants Family owned for over 50 years

COME TASTE THE DIFFERENCE! ITALIAN CHOPHOUSE

ITALIAN GRILL

645 E. Big Beaver • Troy

6480 Orchard Lake Rd. • West Bloomfield

248.680.0066

248.626.6969 NW corner of Maple and Orchard Lake

Reservations Always Welcome

$

10

GIFT CERTIFICATE

SINCE 1920 THE TRADITION CONTINUES

This certificate entitles bearer to: Redeemable at both Larco’s locations

$10 off with a minimum purchase of $40 (Excluding tax, tip & alcoholic beverages.)

Maximum discount $10. Offer not valid holidays and subject to Rules of Use. Tipping should be 15% to 20% of the total bill before discount. Va l i d a ny t i m e .

36 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:25 AM

Page 37

transforming your home into your

Dreams.

we’ll show you HOW.

COMPLETE LANDSCAPE DESIGN...

INSTALLATION...

MAINTENANCE...

After

• • • • • •

Before

If you think moving is the only way to the home of your dreams, think again.

For nearly three decades, Gittleman Construction Company has been helping to make home dreams come true for families across Oakland County and beyond.

New Homes Gas Stations Shopping Centers Hotels Office Buildings Oakland-Macomb-Wayne County

FULL SERVICE COMPANY…

From projects that require distinctive creative design, detailed planning or a complete renovation, our skilled designers and professional tradespeople are committed to your total satisfaction and enduring value.

• • • • • • •

So whether it’s more space for a growing family, more style for an updated look or more serenity for a peaceful environment, call me personally at 248.538.5400 to learn how you can realize your new home dreams…without leaving your home.

Whether you want to renew, remodel or redo, remember Gittleman.

Lawn Maintenance Sprinklers Fertilizing Flower Design Waterfalls Parking Lot Sweeping Snow Plowing

CALL – TONY KONJA – FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

Vera Asmar, Vice President Gittleman Construction

Village Park Offices • 31800 Northwestern Highway, Suite 140, Farmington Hills, MI 48334

28580 ORCHARD LAKE RD., SUITE 102 FARMINGTON HILLS, MI 48334 www.gittleman.net

Phone: 248-855-8575 • Fax: 248-855-6985 E-mail: tonykonja@artisticoutdoor.com

Drs. Purcell, Sayegh & Zimny *Board Certified Family Medicine Specialists

You need just ONE Insurance Agent...

As long as it’s a Farm Bureau Insurance Agent

Kelly Purcell, D.O. Family Medicine

Anthony J. Sayegh, D.O. Family Medicine

Matthew C. Zimny, D.O. Family Medicine

*Specializing in All Aspects of Pediatric, Adult, and Geriatric Medicine including...

248-656-3388 www.farmbureauinsurance-mi.com

*Same Day Appointments Available*

W Maple Rd.

(

14 Mile Rd. 13 Mile Rd.

Novi Rd.

12 Mile Rd.

¢ 696

Halsted Rd.

5

Sue Abro 318 East Street Rochester

• Annual Physicals • School/Sports Physicals • Gynecologic Care • Sick Visits

N

Life, Home, Auto, Farm, Business, Retirement, and more... your Farm Bureau Insurance agent brings you peace of mind in so many areas of life.

Michigan’s Insurance Company

BEAUMONT MEDICAL STAFF MEMBERS

Making Your Future More Predictable

39630 14 Mile Rd. in Newberry Square (Hiller’s Shopping Center)

(248) 960-3727

FARM BUREAU MUTUAL • FARM BUREAU LIFE • FARM BUREAU GENERAL

*For your convenience, evening and weekend hours are available 1229470

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 37

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:25 AM

Page 38

ECONOMICS & enterprise

Selling Arbonne: The beauty is in the details

BY JENNIFER KORAIL PHOTO BY NORA BAHROU DOWNS

haldean women are raving about Arbonne, and in more ways than one. Not only do they love the beauty products, they also love selling them. Because it is sold entirely through a network of individuals, the skincare product line is a perfect fit for Chaldeans’ entrepreneurial nature.

How does the business work? Stephanie DenhaMcKee of Commerce Township calls it “a lot of people doing a little bit of work. We let people try the product and through sharing, we build its reputation.”

Arbonne is essentially a network marketing company that cuts outs the middleman. The network branches further out as consultants teach and train family, friends and colleagues, who then pass the trade onto their own networks.

There are five product categories: skincare, nutrition, weight management, aroma therapy and cosmetics. Arbonne carries a men’s line, an antiaging line and a line for babies. “Anyone with hair or skin can use Arbonne’s products,” said DenhaMcKee. Botanical-based with no animal byproducts or mineral oils, consultants and clients alike swear by Arbonne. “The products speak for themselves,” said consultant Marcine Garmo. Denha-McKee agrees. “I love the products,” she said. “I was using them before I was even in the business.”

Denha-McKee claims it is Chaldean people’s independent, hardworking attitude for success that intrigues them about Arbonne. The owner of Indigo Salon in West Bloomfield, Denha-McKee has found in her three years with Arbonne that she can make extra money without investing in a second job.

District Manager Karen Denha of Beverly Hills shares similar sentiments. A passionate legal professional, Denha values her time. “I got into the law field because I wanted to help others,” she said.

“Network marketing has allowed me the time and financial freedom to invest back in the community.”

Karmo, a supervisor for Wayne County Children and Family Services, also finds that working for Arbonne has helped manage her time. “I put extra money in my pocket without having to sacrifice a significant amount of time,” she said.

Chaldeans like the fact that they can work around

S U B S C R I B E !

C

Arbonne professionals Stephanie Denha McKee applies makeup to Karen Denha as Olivia Esshaki looks on.

their careers, personal schedules and families. “You can be at home with your kids and family while making money,” said Denha, a mother of three.

The management structure is simple, according to Denha-McKee. There are four management levels, and consultants who reach regional vice president status earn a Mercedes Benz.

What also differentiates Arbonne is the increasing number of Chaldean men interested in the business.

Denha-McKee stresses that this is an area where Chaldeans can truly make a mark no matter what gender, age or profession. “With Arbonne, you are working to make a business for yourself, not by yourself,” she said. “Each member of the team has to succeed for the team as whole to succeed.”

Thus far, Arbonne has been extremely successful among Chaldeans, and its growing popularity is evident in the energy displayed by local consultants, which also include Jennifer Thomas, Deanne Toma, Clara Kalou, Caroline Farida and Olivia Esshaki.

Many Chaldeans now working with Arbonne to supplement their current incomes hope to someday make it a full-time job. Karmo expects to ultimately transition her career entirely to network marketing.

“That is my eventual goal,” she said.

Denha-McKee said the possibilities are endless “It might be some people’s Plan B,” she said. “But with a little bit of hard work, it can really become your Plan A.” For more information, visit www.Arbonne.com.

C & J Parking Lot Sweeping, Inc. CALL FOR A 12-MONTH SUBSCRIPTION: $20 (MICHIGAN) $30 (OUT OF STATE)

I wish to subscribe to the Chaldean News for 12 issues Please fill in your name and address below: Name _____________________________________________________________________________ Address_________________________________________________________________________________ City ________________________________________ State _____ Zip _____________________ Phone ______________________________ E-mail _____________________________ PLEASE MAIL THE FORM, WITH A CHECK MADE PAYABLE TO: THE CHALDEAN NEWS ATTN: SUBSCRIPTIONS 26555 EVERGREEN, SUITE 250, SOUTHFIELD, MI 48076 PHONE: 248-355-4850 WEB: WWW.CHALDEANNEWS.COM

38 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

www.cjsweep.com

FREE ESTIMATE

1-888-LOT-SWEEP 586-759-3668 • 586-759-0858 Fax OFFICE BUILDINGS SHOPPING CENTERS POWER WASHING CONSTRUCTION SITES CATCH BASIN REPAIR

ASPHALT MILLINGS STRIPING POT HOLE REPAIR LINE JETTING GUM REMOVAL

“Over 25 Years of Service” 2200 E. Ten Mile Road • Warren, Michigan 48091

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:55 AM

Page 39

PHOTO BY NORA BAHROU DOWNS JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 39

PROFESSIONALS PROFESSIONALS

PROFESSIONALS PROFESSIONALS

PROFESSIONALS

PROFESSIONALS

chaldean news

chaldean news

Page 40 11:25 AM 6/28/07 CN0707_0152

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:25 AM

Page 41

Franklin Financing: Experience, Knowledge & Resources Helping Borrowers with Their Financing Needs in all 50 States

“Our experienced and educated employees constantly attend seminars and lectures on new lending programs and trends in the financing industry.”

– KIAR GAMSHO

ith their work experience, education, and resources in the financing industry, partners, Michael Atisha and Kiar Gamsho have established Franklin Financing in Farmington Hills, Michigan, a financial services company.

Franklin Financing offers a wide range of programs including residential and commercial loans and mortgages, focusing on refinances and purchases. With collective knowledge in both the finance and accounting industries, consulting on their client’s financial well-being is their key to success. Franklin Financing starts off with a professional consultation for their clients by analyzing their borrower’s financial standing and determining the proper mortgage suitable for their client’s needs. With this strategy of client focused lending, the company has found immediate success and will prove to be the next leader in financing for our community, locally and nationally.

Fully licensed in all 50 states, Franklin Financing eases the burdensome act of dealing with banks and other lending institutions. “We specialize in the financ-

W

ing of primary, secondary and investment properties nationwide. Borrowers needing mortgages for their instate and out-of-state properties need only come to one place, Franklin Financing,” said Michael Atisha, a principal in the firm.

With out-of-state properties, mostly in Florida and Arizona, being purchased by our Community faster than the “Chrysler Pacifica,” Franklin Financing is here to help and specializes in this market.

Customer service is a top priority for Franklin Financing. Borrowers will breeze through the mortgage process with Franklin Financing’s professional staff and internal control system. The multilingual staff, speaking both Chaldean & Arabic, allows for enhanced communication and a smooth process.

“Our experienced and educated employees constantly attend seminars and lectures on new lending programs and trends in the financing industry,” said Kiar, a principal in the firm.

The partners have established strong relationships

ADVERTORIAL

with traditional banks and lending institutions both in Michigan and on the national level. “Relationships with the top lenders, such as Wachovia, Countrywide, Wells Fargo and Washington Mutual, allow us to obtain the best programs and lowest interest rates on the market for our customers,” says Kiar. With interest rates constantly changing and banks implementing new industry standards, Franklin Financing has the resources and experience to take you through the process quickly and successfully.

“Our biggest sense of accomplishment comes when we help a family or newlywed couples finance their dream home. Knowing that we provided them with optimal customer service while finding the best rates in the industry is number one,” said the partners, who are also first cousins.

As community partners, Franklin Financing has made plans this year to reach out to the young Chaldean community, volunteering in different organizations and promoting causes that encourage young people to get involved in their community. They offer employment and advice to the community. Partners Kiar and Mike are enterprising a consulting venture capitalistic idea called “The Thinking Pool.” The Thinking Pool consults with our communities new entrepreneurs, pooling resources such as office space and equipment, professional advice, management and capital to turn an idea into a successful venture.

Michael Atisha is from West Bloomfield, Michigan.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management from Michigan State University and studied abroad in England at Cambridge University. After working in marketing and sales, out of college, Michael has spent several years in the finance industry gaining valuable experience as an underwriter. Michael can be reached at Mike.A@2franklin.com Kiar Gamsho, a Bloomfield Hills, Michigan native, graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Accounting from Oakland University. From college, Kiar entered and is currently in the public accounting field, advancing his experience in the service industry as an Accountant/CPA Candidate. Kiar can be reached at Kg@2franklin.com

30101 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 101 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 Phone: (248) 855-6035 Toll Free: (800) 257-9142 Fax: (248) 419-4539 Email: franklinfinancing@yahoo.com.

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 41

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:25 AM

Page 42

roads in Dearborn and I-94 and Telegraph Road in Taylor, the Commission Program has put his stations on a solid business footing.

“There are limited options when competition is so high. It is difficult making money. Atlas splits costs with you and you are not on your own,” says Elsaghir, who has been with the Commission Program at the Dearborn location for more than four months.

Elsaghir adds that continuing pressures on profit margins for instore items like cigarettes and snacks make it important that dealers are profitable on their fuel sales.

“We need to keep prices where you can make money.”

Fuel Commission program makes Atlas Oil a partner with gas station owner-operators t doesn’t take a Wall Street analyst to grasp how hard it is to buy and then price gasoline for a service station, matching inventory costs to sales, and still come out ahead. Not to mention competitors around every street corner, including Big Box stores and Supercenters using low-priced gas to draw in folks.

Just look at the jumping numbers on gas station signs.

At the same time, in the Michigan marketplace in particular, the current environment has only added to a long developing lack of pricing discipline. Telltale signs include negative cash flows; more independent owneroperators facing foreclosures on service station properties; and those “Under New Management” signs popping up at stations. Executives at Taylor-based Atlas Oil thought there had to be a better way and they found it.

It’s called the Atlas Oil Commission Program and it has changed the rules of the game for station operators.

The program has a variety of benefits including: • Relieves pricing and cash flow problems • Program shared fuel costs only include the applicable product rack cost and freight – no distributor margin or mark-up exists • Atlas Oil handles complex credit card programs and sales tax collection • Allows owner-operators can concentrate on profit centers such as coffee programs, car washes and food offerings Frees owner-operators from strain of constantly monitoring fuel prices and battling stiff competition The Atlas Oil Commission Program allows station operators to take control of their own destiny. It makes operators and Atlas Oil partners in the fuel business.

Cash flow for new fuel supply is a station’s secondlargest debt issue right after physical station and equipment.

With the Commission Program, Atlas Oil takes on the risk by effectively owning the fuel inventory. Profits on fuel sales and credit card programs are shared.

I

42 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

Atlas Oil customizes the Commission Program to each station location and situation, establishing a consistent pricing strategy and restoring discipline in order to grow both customer counts and daily volumes pumped.

Other features of the Commission Program include: • Gross Profit dollars from fuel sales are shared by the operator and Atlas Oil; • Atlas Oil can assist with the management of environmental compliance and can also defray the cost of maintaining petroleum delivery and storage equipment; • Atlas Oil can invest in and retain ownership of some or all fuel equipment and inventory at a given location; • Atlas Oil gives the operator real-time credit for all credit card sales, which helps improve the operator’s cash flow position.

Atlas’s Commission Program was rolled out in late 2006.

More than 30 owner-operators in Southeast Michigan are already on board. The program is growing so quickly it has prompted Atlas Oil to expand its service by adding a dedicated staff of field and office professionals. Atlas is also utilizing its automatic tank gauge technology and bolstering its back office infrastructure and transportation fleet to support the program.

What Atlas Customers are Saying As Michigan’s largest fuel distributor, Atlas Oil has the business discipline and insight to make the Commission Program work for its customers.

“The program is keeping my prices competitive with the lowest in the market, about one square mile,” says Andy Akrawi, owner of Marathon-branded stations at 15 Mile and Ryan roads in Sterling Heights and 14 Mile and John R in Madison Heights. “We see old customers coming back,” adds Akrawi, whose stations have been on the Commission Program for about two months.

For Ibrahim Elsaghir, owner of Clark-branded stations on Greenfield Road between Ford and Warren

ADVERTORIAL

Run with the Winners The Commission Program builds on Atlas’s experience with a similar inventory and pricing management strategy in the Indiana market, where its B&R Oil Co. division distributes petroleum products to more than 100 owned, leased or supplied service stations. In all, Atlas’s annual revenues now exceed $900 million, with more than 600 million gallons of petroleum products distributed annually to its nearly 6,000 customers.

Dealers in the Commission Program must have a computer with an Internet connection, which is used to report information on gas sales, product inventory and credit transactions. Atlas is currently developing special software to electronically manage program, while beefing up its internal staff to communicate with dealers.

Atlas executives believe this is the retail future, especially as service stations continue to become larger with increased capital investments, greater numbers of total pumps and more upscale convenience store operations. Diesel is making a comeback and with ethanol and biodiesel quickly emerging, this only adds to fuel inventory challenges.

According to Don Glenn, Atlas’ Director of Retail Sales, the real advantage of the Commission Program is in making gas station ownership a more predictable and attractive business enterprise.

“So far, those on the program couldn’t be happier,” Glenn, says, “Everyone understands profits are inside the store, as high visibility, easy access gas stations have become the modern version of the corner store that we all grew up with. We are leveling the playing field, so solid, customer focused business people can succeed. One of the slogans we use to guide our company is “Run with the Winners.” “We are convinced the partnership created by the Commission Program is a winning formula for station owner-operators.”

Atlas Oil 800-878-2000 Fax Commission Line 313-447-2231 www.atlasoil.com

Page 43

CONCEPTS IN NEON & SIGNS 313.389.6366

1 9 3 5 0 M E G I N N I T Y • M E LV I N DA L E , M I 4 8 1 2 2

www.conceptsinneon.com

ALL KINDS OF SIGNS SALES, SERVICE & NEON

PROFESSIONALS PROFESSIONALS

PROFESSIONALS

11:25 AM

PROFESSIONALS

chaldean news

6/28/07

chaldean news

PROFESSIONALS PROFESSIONALS

CN0707_0152

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:25 AM

44 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

Page 44

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:25 AM

Page 45

event

3

1

2

4

ECRC blessing ceremony 5

PHOTOS BY DAVID REED

Hundreds gathered at the Eastern Catholic Re-Evangelization Center in West Bloomfield on May 31 to celebrate the first annual blessing ceremony in which members renewed their commitment to the mission of re-evangelization.

1. Father Frank Kalabat 2. Amanda Foumia 3. Junior Jwad 4. Sabrina Elia and Mary Ann Toma 5. Veronica Kassab and Fadi Babbie

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 45

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:25 AM

Page 46

event

2 1. Noor Toma 2. A sea of graduates. 3. Amanda Hannawa and Chanel Sarhan 4. Sally, Sabah and Caroline Hakim 5. Bashar Toubia and Stephanie Nofar 6. Joseph Arabbo (left), Vince Dawisha, Patrick Kassab and Ryan Nofar 7. Valerie and Amanda Mika See more pictures at www.chaldeannews.com

1

CFA’s graduation ceremony PHOTOS BY BRAD ZIEGLER 5

The Millennium Center in Southfield was overrun with high school and college graduates on June 14 as the Chaldean Federation of America held the 25th Annual Commencement Ceremony. Scholarships were awarded by a number of organizations including the Chaldean American Student Association and the Chaldean American Ladies of Charity. That evening the celebration continued with a gala at Shenandoah Country Club.

46 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

6

3 4

7

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:25 AM

Page 47

!2% 9/5 ,//+).' &/27!2$ 4/ 9/52 &5452%

its ok dude... just get a good lawyer

7HATEVERõYOURõGOALSõANDõDREAMSõˆõFROMõWORLDõTRAVELõTOõSPENDINGõ MORE TIME WITH YOUR LOVED ONES ˆ WE CAN HELP YOU PLAN TO GET THERE 'OõTOõWWW THEEMRICKGROUP COMõTOõDISCOVERõHOWõWEõCANõHELPõYOU õORõ CALLõTODAYõFORõAõCONSULTATION

For all your Busines s

& Pers onall e g al

needs

4HEõ%MRICKõ)NVESTMENTõ'ROUP OFõ7ACHOVIAõ3ECURITIES õ%ASTõ,IBERTYõ3TREET õ3UITEõ !NNõ!RBOR õ-)õõ

S c ot t S . Ya l d o, At t or ney D a v i d J . D o ms t e i n , At t or ney C h r i s t e Ly n n M c G a h a n , At t or ney

OVER 30 YEARS of COMBINED LEGAL EXPERIENCE

õ õõsõõ 7ACHOVIAõ3ECURITIES ,,# -EMBERõ.93% 3)0# ISõAõREGISTEREDõBROKER DEALERõANDõAõSEPARATEõNONBANKõAFFILIATEõOFõ 7ACHOVIAõ#ORPORATION Ú õ7ACHOVIAõ3ECURITIES ,,#õ õ !õ

3 0 1 5 0 TEL EG R A P H R O A D , SUI TE 444, BI NGHAM FARMS, MI CHI GAN 48025

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 47

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:25 AM

Page 48

some things Don’t need advertising

• ADVERTISINGfor • BRAND IDENTITY • MARKETIN others IC DESIGN • L O G O S • ADVERTISING • BRAND there isDESIGN • L O G O S • A MARKETING • GRAPHIC • BRAND IDENTITY • MARKETING • GRAPHI L O G O S • ADVERTISING • BRAND IDENTITY • • GRAPHIC DESIGN • L O G O S • ADVERTISIN IDENTITY • MARKETING • GRAPHIC DESIGN ADVERTISING • BRAND IDENTITY • MARKETIN IC DESIGN • L O G O S • ADVERTISING • BRAND MARKETING • GRAPHIC DESIGN • L O G O S • A • BRAND IDENTITY • MARKETING • GRAPHI L O G O S • ADVERTISING • BRAND IDENTITY • • GRAPHIC DESIGN • L O G O S • ADVERTISIN 248.424.8311 • www.mainlymkt.com • 17348 W. 12 Mile Road, Suite 105 • Southfield, MI 48076

Up to a $15,000 Enlistment Bonus For more information contact: Azziza at (248) 904-9387 254 North Telegraph Road, Pontiac, MI 48341 Hours: 9:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.

48 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:25 AM

Page 49

event

1

2

3 1. Ryan Basore and Mark Garmo 2. Jay Yasso (left), Howard Openo, Layth Barash, Julian Jeddou and Robert Kassab 3. Jonathan Toma, Qais Manna and Joe Sitto

chamber golf outing

4. This year’s winning foursome — Brian Najor (front left), Todd Moore, Sam Yono, Jr. and Joe Sitto – pose with the chamber’s Martin Manna, Tony Konja and Frank Jonna.

4

5. Mike Sarafa (left), John McClean and John Kello See more pictures at www.chaldeannews.com

PHOTOS BY KAREN DABISH

Shenandoah Country Club was filled with members and friends of the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce on June 21 for the fourth annual golf outing.

5

JULY 2007

CHALDEAN NEWS 49

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:25 AM

Page 50

classified listings

HOUSES FOR SALE

HOUSES FOR SALE

HOUSES FOR SALE

BUSINESS FOR SALE

HELP WANTED

CASS LAKEFRONT WEST BLOOMFIELD

NEWLY RENOVATED FARM. HILLS

ELEGANT BLOOMFIELD REBUILD! 5 BR, all “Masters” with bath ensuite-2 on main floor! Open plan, limestone/ Braz. Cherry/granite, acre lot, fab owner suite w/huge walk-in. $1,699,000.

AUDIO TOUR: 888-804-5550 x8616. Sharon Lesnick, Coldwell Banker Schweitzer, 248-205-1254.

RETAIL PET SUPPLY BUSINESS Three locations in Detroit area.

Lease expiring – will move store.

Possible Master License available.

Turnkey business with training.

Contact Marsha Barnett-King, 248-895-9069.

JOIN OUR WINNING TEAM! The Chaldean News seeks a fulltime sales professional to service the eastside. We offer a dynamic work environment, salary plus commission, and flexible hours. If you have great enthusiasm, a good work ethic and some sales experience, let’s talk.

Acre-plus w/480 ft. of secluded peninsula water frontage.

Completely remodeled in ’06. Over 3,000 sq. ft., 4 BR, 2.5 baths, kitchen w/granite countertops, 4car garage, brick paver drive, parklike setting. $1.49 million. Call Joe, 248-884-3334. Agt.

Newly renovated 3 Bdrm Ranch in Farmington Hills, MI on huge lot.

New kit, roof, Trane Htng & Clng sys, paint, plumbing, mechs, Hardiplank Siding, and much more.

Call Donyale Mahorn at 248644-3500 or visit our website at www.hallandhunter.com.

MLS #27084736

DOLLAR/CASS LAKE FRONT

Custom built home in 2002.

4 bdrms, 2.5 baths. Features hdwd flrs & granite counter tops throughout, gourmet kitchen & skylights, WB schools.

Call Niran Bahoora 248-225-7711

BEAUTIFUL NEW 4000 SQ FT HOME with 50’ on all sports Walnut Lake.

Sunset views, 4 bedroom, 4 baths, 3 fireplaces, wood floors, marble and granite features, 4 skylights.

Landscaped with sprinkling system.

Birmingham schools. Priced $300,000 below appraised value @ $1,200,000.

Call Farial at 810-227-9385.

If you’re looking here…

CONDOS FOR SALE MODERN CONDO IN TROY 2 Bdrm, 2 bath, library, cathedral ceilings, 2-car garage, built in 2004, 1800 SF, Must see! $259,000. Call 313-580-6565.

STERLING HEIGHTS TOWNHOUSE PRICED TO SELL Sharp 2 BR, 1.5 bath, basement, private patio and access to pool.

New windows, AC, furnace, hardwood floors. $94,900. Call agent for more info, (248) 722-3334.

… so are thousands of others!

SERVICES OFFERED HOUSE CLEANING SERVICES AVAILABLE Cleaning lady is looking for a job.

Good References and Experience.

Luda and ladies 586-883-2452 or 586-558-3825.

ENJOY SUMMER With freshly painted walls.

Professional painter available for all size jobs, big and small. Free estimates. (248) 542-1033.

Send a resume and cover letter to: info@chaldeannews.com or 26555 Evergreen Road, Suite 250 Southfield, MI 48076 NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE We’re growing, come along for the journey

Call (248) 355-4850 Chaldean News to place Classifieds your ad Work! today.

FRIENDS DON’T LET FRIENDS PAY 6%

HOMESOURCE, REALTORS

®

12499 Evergreen Road Detroit, MI 48228 (313) 366-3100

BLOOMFIELD TWP.

CASS LAKE

LOWER STRAITS LAKE

PRIME 1 ACRE LOT, BLOOMFIELD HILLS SCHOOLS Beautiful 4BR 2½BA brick ranch w/ gorgeous hardwood floors & new moldings, excellent floor plan w/ living/dining/ family room + 3-season room & giant paver patio. Tons of updates, move-in ready.

DON’T BE SHY, MAKE AN OFFER $500,000 ID#3663

PRIME 85’ OF SUNNY SOUTHERN EXPOSURE. Move right in, remodel or start over...the choice is yours. Quiet dead-end street, beautiful neighborhood with no shacks.

3-4BR 3BA 2656 SF current home needs some cosmetic updates but is very livable.

DON’T BE SHY, MAKE AN OFFER $1,000,000 ID#3674

114’ OF ALL-SPORTS LAKE FRONTAGE Gorgeous newer home w/ open floor plan, soaring ceilings and every living space overlooking the water. Granite kitchen, romantic master retreat, quiet deadend street.

Shows like a model. DON’T BE SHY, MAKE AN OFFER $700,000 ID#3677

WEST BLOOMFIELD

WALNUT LAKE

WEST BLOOMFIELD

INSTANT KARMA IS GONNA GET YOU BIRMINGHAM SCHOOLS Awesome ¾ acre fenced yard w/ $50K worth of new landscaping and pavers.

Very private home, great floor plan, hardwood floors, giant picture windows, 4BR 2 full + 2 half baths, 3031 SF. PRICED TO MOVE! $465,000 ID#3665

ENTERTAIN 50 IN STYLE Birmingham Schools, Walnut Lake privileges, private double lot, 2-story entry & living room, huge custom kitchen, amazing lower level w/ nightclub dance floor & light show, fitness area. Understated but elegant. Not a cookie-cutter home.

JUST REDUCED $75K! $675,000 ID#3568

ONE-OF-A-KIND updated contemporary with finished basement, custom staircase, marble & wood floors, deck & hot tub, 4 big bedrooms w/ walk-in closets in all. Circle driveway. A must-see. West Bloomfield Schools. JUST REDUCED $20K! $369,900 ID#3657

1-800-NEXT-HOME 248-354-1400 teamhomesource.com 50 CHALDEAN NEWS

JULY 2007

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:26 AM

Page 51

CN0707_0152

6/28/07

11:26 AM

Page 52

NATIONWIDE EMPLOYMENT & FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES

SUCCESS IN LIFE ISN’T AN ACCIDENT, IT’S A CHOICE. A DECISION TO DESIRE MORE THAN AVERAGE.

LOW INITIAL INVESTMENT PREFERRED COMMISSION RATES EXPERT SITE SELECTION LEASE NEGOTIATION ASSISTANCE CO-OP MARKETING IN TV, RADIO, BUSINESS DIRECTORIES EXTENSIVE TRAINING & SUPPORT

CHOOSE TO BECOME AN L.A. INSURANCE FRANCHISEE! FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 800-893-9393

Franchise Available