Offi cial Newsletter of the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce

INSIDE

WELCOME WORDS FROM MAYOR BING

MAKING THE MOST OF MEMBERSHIP

CHALDEAN FOUNDATION NEWS

CHALDEAN COMMERCEFALL /

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Women PowerSpotlight on the chamber’s female members.

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FALL / WINTER 2010 CHALDEAN COMMERCE 3

Offi cial Newsletter of the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce

MESSAGE

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

BRIEFINGS

HAPPENINGS

BUSINESS ADVICE

LEGISLATIVE ROUNDUP

COVER STORY

FEATURE

MEMBERSHIP

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From the Chairman and the Executive Director

Noteworthy Member Updates

Stepping UpWelcome New Board MembersYou’ve Got MailDon’t Be Left Out!Surf On OverFoundation Continues to Grow

Blast from the PastHealthy InterestMaking StridesOn the Verizon

Make the Most of Your Membership

Repudiation of Washington as Democrats Lose Big New Leadership in LansingBolger and Richardville New LeadersSunday Liquor Sales Gain ApprovalU.S. Senate to Vote on Paycheck Fairness Act

Spotlight on Women in Business

Bing Lauds Grocers, Pledges Cooperation

New MembersRenewed Members

fall / winter 2010

CHALDEAN COMMERCE

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mark the dateDeceMBeR 9Annual Christmas Party! 6 p.m. Regency Manor Southfi eld

Our annual Board of Directors elections are always a bit bittersweet. It’s sweet for sure to see so many members willing to step up and serve. This year we had 11 people running for 7 spots – a gratifying number that illustrates our vitality as an organization. But there’s some bitter

too – no one likes to lose in an election. We sincerely encourage those who fell short in votes to stay involved with the chamber. We need your ideas and your enthusiasm!

It’s also bitter to say goodbye to those whose time on the board has come to an end: Jacob Bacall, Evan Bahoura, Sandra Hanna, Mark Kassa and Johnny Oram. We can’t thank them enough for their hard work and dedication.

Being a member of the Chaldean American Chamber board is no easy job. It’s far more than a fi gurehead title and there are high expectations for each board member. We’ve been blessed with board members who understand the responsibility and rise to the occasion time and again. That’s sure to hold true for our newest board members: Wendy Acho, Sathab Abbo Ousachi, John Loussia, Iyad J. Alosachi, MD, and a former chairman, Saad Hajjar. In addition, Sonya Kory and Jay Yasso were re-elected. Turn to page 7 for more about our elections and annual meeting held on November 10.

Our charitable arm, the Chaldean Community Foundation, continues to thrive. We were awarded $950,000 in funding this year from the State of Michigan’s Department of Community Health – a $450,000 increase over 2009. We will use these funds to continue the Mental Health Initiative with St. John’s Eastwood Clinics and to subcontract services through the Chaldean Federation of America. In addition, we’re helping fund the Chaldean American Association of Health Professionals’ new Project Bismutha, which provides medical services to the uninsured. We’re also working on long-term solu-tions to solve the primary issues affecting today’s refugees. In doing so, we will establish an Eastside offi ce and work to develop housing, transportation and language solutions. A major goal is job retrain-ing, which will enable the refugees to become productive members of our community.

We’re also glad to report that we have increased the chamber’s cash reserves and have created a rainy day fund. The goal is to have $500,000 tucked away by the end of 2012.

We all enjoyed the Membership Drive these past few months. It was fun to see people get so jazzed up about winning the impressive prize package. Congratulations to Jim Manna, who trumped them all by bringing in 22 new members. Special thanks to Tony Konja, who also turned in an impressive performance. Tony is a tireless recruiter for our organization! Read more about it on page 6, and many thanks to the donors whose prizes provided such an incentive to win.

We’re happy to report that membership continues at a healthy clip. We have 948 members, a 20 percent increase over 2009.

We plan to make the Membership Drive an annual event – but please don’t wait until then to en-courage people to join the chamber. Membership is our lifeblood!

Best Wishes,Frank Jonna Martin MannaChairman Executive Director

FRAnK JOnnA

MARTIn MAnnA

PuBLISHeRSChaldean AmericanChamber of Commerce

Interlink Media

from the chairman and executive director

greetings

eDITORJoyce Wiswell

ART DIRecTORAlex Lumelsky

gRAPHIc DeSIgnSKY Creative, Inc.

cHALDeAn AMeRIcAn cHAMBeR OF cOMMeRce29850 Northwestern Hwy.Suite 250Southfi eld, MI 48034Phone: (248) 996-8340Fax: (248) 996-8342www.chaldeanchamber.com

Chaldean Commerce LLCis published quarterly by the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce

from the chairman and executive director

2010 Board of DirectorscHAIRMAnFrank JonnaCEO, Jonna Companies

execuTIVe VIce cHAIRMAnJacob BacallPartner, Bacall Development

VIce cHAIRMAnPaul AskerPartner, Asker Perlmuter, PLC

TReASuReREvan BahouraCPA, Bahoura & Barringer, PLC

SecReTARYSandra HannaChemist, NSF International

LegAL cOunSeLRon AchoPartner, Cummings, McClorey, Davis & Acho, PLC

DirectorsFrank AsmarPresident, Tinelle Properties

Kevin JappayaSales Associate, Thomas A. Duke Company

Mark KassaOwner, Heartland Marketplace

Sonya KoryAssistant V.P., Huntington Bank

Johnny OramPresident, Altor, Inc.

Chamber & foundation staff and supportMartin MannaExecutive Director

Lisa KalouDirector, Operations & Events and Program Manager

Paul AlraihaniController

Sharon HannawaProgram Manager, RAST

founding & Lifetime MembersRon AchoCummings, McClorey, Davis & Acho

Najib AtishaLance’s Hometown Market

Najib & Arvin AyarWhitmore Lake Hotels, Inc.

Carl DalloGeneral Title Agency

John & Chris DenhaDenha Investment Group

Terry FaridaValue Center Markets

Jalal & Jason GarmoMajestic Wine & Deli

James HillerHiller’s Markets

Frank JaddouMazin Foods

Jamal KalabatKalabat Companies

Waad & Joey MuradMetro Car Company

Ameer & Jason NajorSuper Fair Foods

Dave NonaN&Y Properties

Wisam PaulusTrepco

Mazen SamonaSmokers Outlet

Basim & Mazin ShinaApollo Market

Partner MembersJoseph AttoFox Realty, LLC

Rocky H. HusaynuProfessional Insurance Planners

Johnny KarmoMarket Square

Steven J. KherkherWilliams Kherkher

John LoussiaValue Wholesale

Steven TapperTappers Diamonds

Chamber Partners

The Chaldean-American Chamber of Commerce is a partnership of Chaldean businesses and professionals working together

to strengthen members’ business, increase job opportunities, encourage expansion and promote Chaldean business and culture.

The Chamber seeks to service and represent Aramaic-speaking people, including Assyrians, Chaldeans and Syriacs.

mission statement

Bassam SalmanOwner, Apollo Building Company

Gerard Van GrinsvenCEO, Henry Ford West Bloomfi eld

Jay (Jabran) YassoPartner, Hertz Schram

Eric YounanCorporate Communications Manager, PulteGroup, Inc.

Valerie CholaghReceptionist and Membership Coordinator

Galia ThomasCase Manager and Trilingual Translator

Sana PalmerCase Manager and Outreach Coordinator

Joyce WiswellPublications

FALL / WINTER 2010 CHALDEAN COMMERCE 5

6 CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL / WINTER 2010

And the Winner is …Our 2010 Membership Initia-tive was a huge success. We netted 61 new members in the contest period – June 1 to October 31, 2010 – a value of $11,700!

The initiative sparked a lot of good-natured competition among members determined to take home the prize pack-age. Congrats to Jim Manna, who did just that by signing 22 new members. Board member Tony Konja was also hot in the

running. Ultimately, we are all the winners as we welcome our newest members!

Thanks to our sponsors, who helped make up this fantastic prize package:

Detroit Tigers Suite (includes 18 tickets and parking passes)

Dinner for six at Shenandoah Country Club

One year’s supply of Domino’s Pizza (courtesy of Ron and Frank Asmar)

One year supply of milk or ice cream from Country Fresh

One month public relations services from Your People LLC

One year car washes from Champion Car & Detailing (courtesy of Anthony Mona)

$100 gift card from Hiller’s Markets

$150 gift card from Marathon

$100 gift card from Tapper’s Fine Jewelry

of Architects.Riffel Sabbagh has

joined Charter One as a mortgage loan offi cer, handling a wide range of home fi nancing programs including both conven-tional and governmental loans. He was previously with Bank of America.

Karen van Tiem is new at ASTI Environ-mental’s Property Services Group. As a technician, she handles project assistance, equipment preparation, maintenance and sample collection.

The Frankel Orga-nization announces that Laurie Frankel has been named a Certifi ed Aging-In-Place special-ist after completing the designation program. The program teaches the technical, business man-

agement and customer service skills needed for home modifi cations for the aging-in-place. Frankel is also Michigan Green-Built Certifi ed.

Concrete Alterations has revamped its informative website. Visit www.Concrete-Al-terations.com to learn all about the com-pany’s decorative concrete installations and concrete repair services. You can even request a quote on-line. The company has offi ces in Michigan and North Carolina.

MeMBers in tHe neWs

Susan Kattula has been appointed President of the Warren Consoli-dated Schools Board of Education. She is serving her fi fth year as a board member after being reelected in 2009 to a second term. WCS dis-trict is located within 3 cities — Warren, Sterling Heights and Troy – and has about 15,800 stu-dents, one third of whom are Chaldean.

Eliya “Louie” Boji has been reappointed to the Michigan Civil Rights Commission by Gover-nor Jennifer Granholm. His new term runs until December 31, 2014.

Randall A. Denha has been once again been named by Michi-gan Super Lawyers as one of the top attorneys

in the state for 2010. He is the founder and managing member of Denha & Associates, PLLC in Birmingham, concentrating on estate and business succession planning, asset protection planning and planning for high-net worth individuals and families.

Also on the Michigan Super Lawyers list is Sandra Alexander, who has been named a 2010 Rising Star. She practices in the areas of commercial litigation, business and real estate transactions, probate administration

and estate planning. A former board member of the Chaldean Ameri-can Bar Association, she practices law with Resnick & Moss, P.C. in Bloomfi eld Hills.

Channelle Kizy-White was also named a Michigan Super Lawyer Rising Star for 2010. She is an associate at Beals Hubbard, PLC in Farmington Hills and focuses her practice in the areas of commercial litigation and criminal defense. She is also a current board member of the Women’s Bar As-sociation.

Attorney Gary E. Perlmuter of Farming-ton Hills-based Asker Perlmuter, PLC has earned the highest “AV” rating for his legal abili-

ties and ethics from other practicing attor-neys and judges, through the legal resources of Martindale Hubbell. He joins his partner (and chamber board member) Paul P. Asker in attaining this high honor. Perlmuter fo-cuses his practice primarily on business law, corporate law, trademark & copyright law, real estate law and software licensing.

Victor Saroki, FAIA, has been honored with the Gold Medal in Architecture by the Detroit Chapter of the American Institute

Susan Kattula

eliya “Louie” Boji

Randall A. Denha

Sandra Alexander

channelle Kizy-White

gary e. Perlmuter

Victor Saroki

Riffel Sabbagh

Karen van Tiem

Jim Manna signed the most new members during the Membership Drive.

FALL / WINTER 2010 CHALDEAN COMMERCE �

You’ve Got MailOur latest Member to Member mailing had a record 23 participants offering special deals on everything from airport parking to catering. Thanks to all who partici-pated, and look out for our next Member to Member promotion in the spring.

Don’t Be Left Out!We’re putting the finishing touches on the 2011 Chaldean Commerce Busi-ness Guide – are you included? The book includes thousands of Chaldean businesses separated by category and listing is free, so there’s no excuse not to join in! You have until December 11

to submit your admission. Send it to info@ChaldeanChamber.com, or call (248) 996-8340. Advertising opportu-nities are also available. The Business Guide is sent directly to each chamber member and Chaldean businesses. It’s also posted on our website, www.ChaldeanChamber.com.

Surf On OverBy now we hope you’ve visited our enhanced website – www.ChaldeanChamber.com. Now check out the new site for the Detroit Independent Grocers at www.MyDetroitGrocer.com.

Stepping UpThe Waad Murad Advocacy Fund stepped up to offer $10,000 to help solve the case of a liquor store murder on October 6. Mazin Khmoro, whose family owned Cronin’s on Northwestern Highway in Southfield, was shot several times as he took out the trash in the rear parking lot. Southfield Police do not believe robbery is a motive. Khmoro was 48 years old and the father of three. At press time, no arrests had been made.

The reward was announced at a well-attended press conference on October 14. The $10,000 from the Waad Murad Fund joins $2,500 ini-tially offered by Crime Stoppers of Michigan. Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers completely anonymous at (800) SPEAK-UP.

The Advocacy Fund is a part of the Chaldean Community Founda-tion, the chamber’s charitable arm. It is named in honor of Waad Murad, a founding member of the chamber, who was gunned down outside his Detroit business.

Welcome New Board MembersWe enjoyed a good turnout for our Annual Elections on November 10 at Shenandoah Country Club. Eleven people ran for seven open seats.

Congratulations to the winners: Wendy Acho (133 votes), Sathab Abbo Ousachi (123), John Loussia (102), Iyad J. Alosachi MD (102), and Saad Hajjar (94). Re-elected were Sonya Kory (123) and Jay Yasso (100).

Thanks to those board members whose term ends this year: Jacob Bacall, Evan Bahoura, Sandra Hanna, Mark Kassa and Johnny Oram.

Finally, thanks to all those who also ran: Walid (Wally) Abro, Sharona Shapiro, Ziad S. Kassab and Nada Jamoua. We look forward to your continued involvement. BRiEfiNgs contiuned on page 8

Wendy Acho Sathab Abbo Ousachi John Loussia Iyad J. Alosachi MD Saad Hajjar Sonya Kory Jay Yasso

Briefings

The suspect’s vehicle

8 CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL / WINTER 20108 CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL / WINTER 2010

Blast from the PastMany felt nostalgic at the August 25 Quar-terly Networking Meeting. That’s because the site, Comcast Business Class, was formerly the home of the Southfi eld Manor, the precursor to Shenandoah Country Club. Comcast has beautifully renovated the space, but that didn’t stop many of the 100 attendees that evening from reminisc-ing about “the old days.”

Healthy InterestTopics don’t come much hotter than Health Care Reform these days. Our September 15 Industry Outlook could not have been more timely, with the Health Alliance Plan (HAP) presenting an informative program about the timeline and regulations associated with new health care laws. Some 60 people at-tended the event at the Regency Manor & Banquet Center in Southfi eld.

Making StridesThirty-eight members donned their sneakers and walked fi ve miles around Belle Isle on October 9 in the annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event. It was a beautiful, warm day and good spirits prevailed. The chamber team raised $5,467 for the American Cancer Society, put-ting it in the top-ten of fundraisers. Thanks to new member Sabrina Kumar of the ACS for her encouragement. Ron Asmar of Vineyards Deli got into the spirit by donating a portion on sales of his Flax Bar, and Steve Mansour from Ink Detroit raised funds with a tee shirt and bracelet.

This is the second year the chamber has partici-pated in the event, and we plan to do so in 2011 as well. Join us!

On the VerizonUpcoming Verizon Wireless initiatives were discussed at the October 21 Meet the CEO at Shenandoah Country Club. Our special guest was John Granby, region president for Michigan, Indi-ana and Kentucky, who also received an overview of the Chaldean community.

HaPPenings

Foundation Continues to Grow The chamber’s charitable arm, the Chaldean Community Foundation, has received additional funding from the State of Michigan. The initial Mental Health Grant has been increased to $550,000, a $50,000 rise. That program continues to provide mental health services to refugees and other needy individuals with subcontractors St. John East-wood Clinic, the Chaldean Federation of America and Project Bismutha.

Also approved is a new grant for $400,000. RAST (Refugee Acculturation, Sustainability & Training) will focus on fi nding solutions to major issues affecting Iraqi refugees. It will establish an Eastside offi ce, retrain refugees, link them to language classes and help place them in jobs. Additionally, an Aramaic Loan Fund will be established to offer low-interest loans on car purchases (transportation is a major hurdle for newcomers) and microloans for the estab-lishment of new businesses.

We’re delighted to announce that longtime board member Sharon Hannawa has joined the Chal-dean Commu-

nity Foundation as program manager for the RAST grant. She has resigned her seat on the board to accept this full-time position.

Speaking of jobs, thanks go to Dollar Castle and Re-gency Manor, both of which have hired refugees to fi ll job openings.

BRiEfiNgs contiuned from page 7

Sharon Hannawa

good times at comcast.

Louie gomma, John granby and ed najor at the Meet the ceO Verizon Wireless event.

FALL / WINTER 2010 CHALDEAN COMMERCE 9

HaPPenings

eRIc YOunAn

Business aDViCe

Being a member of the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce exposes you and your business to a vast network of contacts, potential

customers, business and civic leaders and industry peers who may have previously been unavailable. As with anything worthwhile, it takes a little bit of work to leverage these new relationships into clients.

Think of your chamber membership as a gym mem-bership in the sense that your results depend on what you put into it. You do not automatically shed pounds and tone muscles by the mere act of joining a gym, so you should not expect new customers to magically beat a path to your door upon joining the chamber. The key to maximizing the benefi ts of your membership and growing your business is involvement and there are many ways to become an active member.

EventsA good way to start is to attend the vari-ous events the chamber hosts each year. Many are free of charge, offer tremendous networking opportunities and feature some of Southeast Michigan’s most prominent elected offi cials and captains of industry. In addition to having a good time, you will make new friendships and get your name out in the community.

Samples of the chamber’s annual events include:

• Quarterly Networking Meetings• Chamber Christmas Party• Chamber Elections• Annual Golf Outing• Industry Outlook• Annual Business Luncheon• Chaldean Festival• Annual Awards Dinner Additionally, each event offers sponsorship op-

portunities where your business will be featured on all promotional materials. Plus, you will have the oppor-tunity to pass out samples and offer coupons to event attendees.

CommitteesAnother way to become involved is to join committees. Each event listed above has a committee comprised of general members and board members who plan all the logistics of each event. The committees are open to all

members and can always use additional help. Other committees are based on special interests such as the Women’s Committee and Political Action Committee.

Board of DirectorsConsider serving on the board of directors. It is open to all members in good standing. Each year, the chamber sends out a call for nominations and you can even nominate yourself. The board members are selected by members who vote in the chamber’s elections each November.

Membership ListingYour membership comes with a listing on the chamber website and directory that is printed yearly. Additionally,

the chamber responds to questions from the people in the community who are seeking service providers by giving them lists of (or referrals to) chamber members. Since you want to make sure you are on the short list of names passed along to inquirers, forward the chamber your bro-chure every time it is updated. Also, make sure your business’ contact and website information are up-to-date and correctly listed on the chamber’s website.

AdvocacyThe chamber is constantly engaged with

local, state and national governments to advance the in-terests of Chaldean-owned and small businesses. Your membership ensures strength in numbers. The voice of your nearly 1,000 fellow chamber members is much louder than a singular one.

Remember, while what you get out of your mem-bership may not be exactly what another member gets, everyone benefi ts from belonging to the chamber. The chamber offers diverse networking venues, promo-tional benefi ts, camaraderie and opportunities to meet other like-minded business people. You have to get involved to reap the biggest rewards from membership. By becoming acquainted with other chamber members and networking with enthusiasm, you can signifi cantly grow your customer base. All it takes is a little bit of effort to make your membership work for you.

Eric Younan is a corporate communications manager for PulteGroup, Inc. He is also a member of the chamber’s board of directors.

Make the Most of Your MembershipBy Eric Younan

Many chamber events are free of charge, offer tremendous networking opportunities and feature some of southeast Michigan’s most prominent elected offi cials and captains of industry.

Repudiation of Washington as Democrats Lose Big On November 2, the American people exercised the power of the pen at the polls and demoted the Democrats to a minority. Seniority in Congress was no defense to the voter dissatisfaction as even senior Wisconsin Senator Russ Feingold lost his job. Repub-licans will control 239 seats in the House versus the 186 seats that the Democrats will yield. The Demo-crats continued to retain a very small margin (52-47) in the Senate, as we saw wins with Sen. Harry Reid and several others who continued to keep the GOP at minority status in that respective body. Many believe that this is going to be a true test for President Barack Obama leading up to the 2012 election.

New Leadership in LansingCome 2011, the Republicans will also be in control of the Michigan Governor’s offi ce, the Attorney General’s offi ce, the Secretary of State, and the Michigan Legisla-ture. This election was clearly a sweep for the GOP and many attributed the gains for the State Republicans to the anti-incumbent and anti-Democratic wave throughout the nation. There was certainly a trickle-down effect that impacted state races.

Many are hoping soon-to-be Governor Rick Snyder will repeal the SBT and make Michigan more business friendly.

One of the advantages Republicans now have is the redistricting of Congressional seats. This process, which will take place as soon as the 2010 Census is completed, determines how many seats in the U.S. Congress every state receives.

Bolger and Richardville New LeadersThe House Republicans have selected State Representa-tive James “Jase” Bolger of Marshall to become the next Speaker. In his new role, he will set the agenda in terms of which bills come forth before the House, as well as work-ing closely with the Governor and the Senate Majority Leader on state budget matters. In the Senate, Sen. Randy Richardville of Monroe will be the Majority Leader.

Sunday Liquor Sales Gain ApprovalStill wondering if retailers will be able to sell liquor on Sunday mornings come January? The answer is yes. In October, Governor Jennifer Granholm vetoed the bill that would have allowed liquor sales on Sunday mornings and holidays. She supported Sunday sales

LegisLatiVe rOunDuP

BY JOHnnY ORAM

Times have changed for Michigan small businesses, and Blue Cross is changing with them. Which is why the Blues and your local chamber of commerce are proud to offer great health plan options for small business.

Simply BlueSM: A brand new PPO from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Employees enjoy a comprehensive health plan at a competitive price. It’s the coverage you’ve always wanted, that’s now more affordable than ever.

Healthy Blue LivingSM: A revolutionary HMO that rewards your employees for adopting healthier lifestyles by working with their doctors to improve their health. Real rewards, like lower copays and lower deductibles.

Choosing health coverage for small business isn’t “just business.” It’s personal.

Leading Michigan to a healthier future.SMLeading Michigan to a healthier future.SMLeading Michigan to a healthier future.SMLeading Michigan to a healthier future.

Your Chamber Exclusively Endorses

With the right health coverage, your business can grow. Healthy employees are good for business. And by offering coverage you and your employees can afford, you’ll be able to retain and attract top talent. Now that’s how a business grows.

Learn more today. Contact your local chamber of commerce or visit us online at bcbsm.com/grow.

104377AGTS

LEgisLATiVE UPDATE contiuned on page 26

spotlight on

Women inBusiness

Women comprise one of the fastest-growing segments of the

Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce. We salute all of

our women chamber members as we continue to see women on the rise.

The Women’s Committee encourages all women to join them.

“There is so much talent within the community, as well as the

greater community, and this is an excellent opportunity to showcase

it,” says Co-Chair Sharon Hannawa. “Women bring with them a unique

perspective that’s vital to the success of any business.”

Contact the chamber offi ce to learn more about the Women’s

Committee at (248) 996-8340. Here is a glimpse of some of our

women members.

Venus AbrahimGraphic DesignerGraphinity, Inc.27260 Haggerty Road, Suite A-9Farmington Hills, MI 48331(248) 848-0503Graphinity.com

“I love creating order out of disorder. Graphic design is more than just picking a cool font and pretty photo,” points out Venus Abrahim. “Designing a printed piece is like solving a puzzle. You have to take all the information the client provides and make sense out of it.”

BeST ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD:

Do what you love and love what you do.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: What-ever business you’re in, common courtesy is common sense. Be nice to everyone whether it’s your boss, client, co-worker or the person who cleans the offi ce. When you mess up – and every-one does at some point – own up to your mistake and fi x it.

Karla AtchooOwnerKarla Atchoo & Associates6775 Daly RoadWest Bloomfi eld, MI 48322(248) 851-1662KarlaAtchoo.com

Karla Atchoo and her associates service a wide variety of clients with a broad range of fi nancial needs. Specialties include software consultation and training, bookkeeping and accounting services and tax re-turns. Atchoo says she will never forget sitting in startup meetings for the Chaldean Chamber: “It is one of the best investments I have made.”

BeST ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD: To be successful you need a niche, and you need to love what you do.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: Follow your passion and do what you love! If you love what you do and work hard, every-thing else will fall into place.

Summerita Ayar & Marisa qaranaCo-ownersMASQ Beauty798 N. Old WoodwardBirmingham, MI 48009(248) 723-MASQMasqBeauty.com

“We are living our dream!” say Summerita Ayar and Marisa Qarana about their full-service brow and makeup artistry boutique, which also offers exclusive retail items such as handbags, skincare products, fragrances and ac-cessories.

BeST ADVIce THeY’Ve ReceIVeD: “If you’re not nervous, that wouldn’t be a good sign,” Fr. Frank Kallabat told them. They also like this anonymous quote: “Never be afraid to try something new. Remember, amateurs built the ark; professionals built the Titanic.”

THeIR ADVIce TO SHARe: To quote Harold R. McAlindon, “Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”

spotlight on

Women inBusiness

12 CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL / WINTER 2010

WOMEN IN BUSINESS:

Did You Know?• Two in fi ve of all U.S. businesses are fully or majority owned by women.

• Between 1997 and 2006, women-owned fi rms grew at nearly twice the rate of all U.S. fi rms – 42.3% vs. 23.3%. These fi rms generated $1.9 trillion in annual sales and employed 12.8 million people nationwide.

• Women make up 46.3% of the labor force.

• In 2002, 29.6% of all Michigan businesses were women-owned.

• Michigan ranks 19th in the growth of businesses in which women own the majority.

• Women make up 50.6% in management, professional and related occupations. But …

• … Women comprise only 15.4% of Fortune 500 corporate offi cers and 14.8% of board seats

SOURCES: ABOUT.COM AND CATALYST

Jennifer curis & Vanessa Kejbou FoumiaOwnersEssence Clothing6690B Orchard Lake RoadWest Bloomfi eld, MI 48322(248) 539-1905

An eclectic mix of women’s clothing and accessories can be found at Essence Cloth-ing, which strives to carry exclusive lines and unique pieces from around the world and offers unparal-leled customer service.

BeST ADVIce THeY’Ve

ReceIVeD: “If it sounds too good to be true it probably is. Nothing ever comes easy, you have to work hard for what you want to accom-plish. Never turn down constructive criticism. You can only learn and grow from it,” says Jennifer Curis. Adds co-owner Vanessa Kejbou Foumia, “Live and learn from your mistakes. What good are they if you don’t learn from them?”

THeIR ADVIce TO SHARe: Know what you are getting into. It’s one thing to love fashion and another to work in the business. You just don’t open the doors, have a great product and expect to have it all. Work in retail, learn the ropes, do your research. Timing is everything!

Faye BurkeTalent Selection SpecialistHenry Ford Health Systems1 Ford PlaceDetroit, MI 48202(313) 876-1397HFHS.org

“Without a doubt my most favorite aspect of my job is working with people. It is what I am best at,” says Faye Burke, who provides recruitment and staffi ng services for Henry Ford Health Systems. She interviews top-tier candi-dates and manages recruiting for the Main Campus at Henry Ford Hospital.

BeST PIece OF ADVIce SHe’S

ReceIVeD: Put God fi rst and everything else will fall in place.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: Love what you do. It may sound simple and mundane but it is true. You can tell when someone doesn’t truly enjoy their job. You should have passion for what you do and success will follow.

Robin M. colePresident and CEOProCare Plus, Inc.3968 Mt. ElliottDetroit, MI 48207(313) 925-4607ProCareHP.com

ProCare Plus is a subsidiary of ProCare Health Plan, a Michi-gan-owned and -operated HMO that serves Michigan Medicaid benefi ciaries in Wayne County. “The chamber shares our goals as it relates to their commitment to the community,” says Robin M. Cole. “ProCare has donated more than $100,000 to charitable orga-nizations in the City of Detroit.”

BeST ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD:

Put God fi rst and move forward from there. If you do, you will always succeed.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: Net-work, network, network. Find your niche or something you love and step out. Take advan-tage of all opportunities and think without boundaries.

Renee DenhaCertifi ed Financial PlannerCranbrook Financial901 Wilshire Drive, Suite 320, Troy, MI 48084(248) 362-4649Nmfn.com

Providing individuals, families and business own-ers with a tailored fi nancial plan is Renee Denha’s

role. She enjoys “the satisfaction and pride in knowing that after we have gone through our planning process, clients are more educated, organized and prepared for the inevitable fi nancial situations they must face.”

BeST PIece OF ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD:

The only thing that stands between you and what you want from life is simply the will to pursue it and the faith to believe it is possible.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: Be passionate about what you do. When choosing a career, recognize that there will be ups and downs, however also know that you chose this career path for you and no one else.

Rita DenhaDirector/PresidentExecutive Language Services, Inc.P.O. Box 250667Franklin, MI 48025(248) 357-0625ExecLangSer.com

Established in 1980, Executive Language Services provides interpreters and translators

in more than 100 languages for legal, medical, Social Security and other services. “I am proud to provide job opportunities to anyone who is interested to experience the world of interpreting/translating,” says Rita Denha.

BeST ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD: When a business associate betrays you, move on because God has better things in store for you.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: Work honestly and with integrity. Keep your options open to all opportunities.

Fida FaransoPresidentBaker’s Delight33896 DequindreSterling Heights, MI 48301(586) 268-8000BakersDelightOnline.com

This unique cake and candy-making supply shop dates to 1974. “I am a person who loves to work day and night, lov-ing to be in this environ-ment,” says Fida Faranso.

“The idea of growing big is why I am self-employed.”

BeST PIece OF ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD: My dad told me, “Don’t worry about stacking your dollars but make sure to take care of your business. Always invest your money, not save it in banks.”

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: Research, research, research. Always look around you at what’s happening in the world, then move.

spotlight on

Women inBusiness

claudine george & christine HarrissOwnersIcing on the Cake Marketing & Promotions (DBA Layer Cake Creative)30403 W. 13 Mile RoadFarmington Hills, MI 48334(248) 670-5055LayerCakeCreative.com

“Everything and anything having to do with market-ing a product or service,” is how Claudine George and Christine Harriss describe

their business, which offers advertising, branding, digital/web, broadcast, promotions and products, events and signage. “We’ve been collaborating together for almost 20 years and truly every client and every project is unique and fulfi lling.”

BeST ADVIce THeY’Ve ReceIVeD: If you can dream it, you can do it! Like Eleanor Roosevelt said, “Do one thing every day that scares you.”

THeIR ADVIce TO SHARe: Don’t take yourself too se-riously … and don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. Listen and learn from those around you.

14 CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL / WINTER 2010

Vanessa Denha-garmoFounder and PresidentDenha Media and CommunicationsP.O. Box 252152West Bloomfi eld, MI 48322(248) 702-8687DenhaMedia.com

Public relations and marketing services that include writing, multimedia production, consult-ing, internal and external strategic campaigns and workshops are

offered by Vanessa Denha-Garmo, who is also the editor in chief and a co-publisher of the Chaldean News.

BeST ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD: Author Jack Canfi eld told me something along the lines of, “Stick to what you know and let the experts do what they know.” Find a CPA to do your accounting, a stockbroker to do your investing, an assistant to keep you organized so you can concentrate on your talents.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: Do the research needed before you launch a business. My partners and I spent two years devel-oping the Chaldean News. I spent several years researching Denha Media and Communications and one year developing my exit strategy from Wayne County before venturing out on my own.

Suheir HaresOwnerAphrodite Aesthetics6473 Farmington RoadWest Bloomfi eld, MI 48322(248) 855-1833AphroditeAesthetics.com

As a cosmetologist and aesthetician, Suheir Hares provides facials, mas-sage, hair and other services at her exclusive upscale spa. “I can organize my time wisely and be more produc-tive to prove I’m a good entrepre-neur,” she says.

BeST ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD: You will have so many obstacles to over-come, you just have to focus.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: You have to have quality work and determination in order to make it.

FALL / WINTER 2010 CHALDEAN COMMERCE 15

Marcine KarmoOwnerElite Errands, Etc.23673 Village House Drive, No. 3ASouthfi eld, MI 48033(248) 798-4048EliteErrandsEtc.com

Marcine Karmo provides personal assistance, concierge and administrative services for people who do not have time to fi nish their “to-do” list. “I always heard people saying that they had no time to run their own errands – so I started helping people and decided to make it a business.”

BeST ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD: No matter how big or small, you make it happen. Always believe in who are you and what you can do.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: Always listen to others’ advice and keep an open mind. Even if your business starts out slow, keep pushing to build it.

Jumana JudehPresidentJudeh & Associates22952 Outer DriveDearborn, MI 48124(313) 277-1986JudehOnline.com

“I enjoy taking risks and working hard and I have no tolerance for any corporate leadership that settles for the status quo,” says Jumana Judeh, MAI, whose commercial appraisal fi rm specializes in tax appeal, litigation, bank-ruptcy, probate and lending. She also offers real estate

consulting services including feasibility studies and market analyses.

BeST ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD: I will never forget what a friend who is a success-ful business owner told me when I was contemplating starting my own business: “I looked around the industry and saw that no one had more education, experience and drive than me, so why not me?”

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: You will always have to work harder than the other person, outsmart your competition, and never ever have an ounce of doubt in your ability to succeed. Do not think for a second that the phone will ring without a strategy that targets a specifi c consumer base.

Renee Ann JadanManager – Individualist/Savvy/VIACNordstrom27640 Novi RoadNovi, MI 48377(248) 504-5700 x 1369Nordstrom.com

As the leader of a team that provides exceptional custom-er service to individuals building their wardrobe, Renee Ann Jadan must stay current with the latest and upcom-ing fashions. “The most gratifying moment is when you see the excitement on the customer’s face as they put on the clothing you have chosen for them,” she says.

BeST PIece OF ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD: Do your homework and be confi dent. It will pay off!

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: Be patient, work hard and ask lots of questions. Always look at others’ strengths and see what you can learn from them.

carmen Husaynu MaffezzoliBrokerRCM Enterprises, LLC22226 Nearbrook CourtFarmington Hills, MI 48335(248) 514-8918RcmWorldBiz.com

RCM Enterprises is an Internet shopping portal that competes with companies like Amazon.

“We’re rapidly expanding, and our competitive advantage is paying cash back to customers,” says Carmen Husaynu Maffezzoli. “I want to provide for my family and create something that will last and become a family legacy.”

BeST ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD: Own your own business so you can have more control over your destiny.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: Look for a business opportu-nity that uses leverage and provides a residual income source. You’ll continue to be paid long after the initial work is done.

Kristina KasedMA, LLPCNorthPoint Professional Counseling23895 Novi Road, Suite 300Novi, MI 48375(248) 939-1866Northpoint-Counseling.com

“Being a Chaldean woman myself, I am familiar with our culture, morals and values, and I would hope that people feel comfortable

coming to me since we have similarities,” says Kristina Kased, a counselor who provides customized treatment for children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups. “It is my passion to help people, and what better people to help than those of our community?

BeST ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD: With God, all things are possible.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: Never give up and never have doubt. Entering the career world can be intimidating and challenging, but with the right attitude and confi dence, nothing is impos-sible. It is all about your attitude, and with enough positive en-ergy you can achieve whatever you want. The sky is the limit.

Wesson KassabOwner, Sizzl-in Subs and Salads2051 N. Wixom RoadWixom, MI 48393(248) 960-0009Sizzle-InSubsAndSalads.com

“It’s nice to know that I’ve been blessed with a talent, that I could support my family, and I love my fl exible schedule,” says Wesson Kassab of her ‘50s-style diner that serves up affordable, tasty food and a fun atmosphere. “It makes me happy when others enjoy my cooking.”

BeST PIece OF ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD: You can only be great at what you do if you love your job. Success is not only measured by how much money you make, it is also measured by what you’ve accomplished.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: If you’re confi dent in your idea and you have a business plan to see it through, then challenge yourself and give it your 110 percent.

spotlight on

Women inBusiness

16 CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL / WINTER 2010

Stephanie OramOwnerAccessories by Stephanie6777 W. Maple RoadWest Bloomfi eld, MI 48322(248) 661-4322FashionsByStef.com

“Boutique chic” is how Stephanie Oram describes her specialty jewelry/gift shop, located inside Henry Ford West Bloomfi eld Hospital. “My goal is to create pieces that express my adoration for exquisite materials while representing my personal style and

love for everything fashionable.”

BeST PIece OF ADVIce SHe’S

ReceIVeD: A wise Chinese man once said, “A person without a smiling face must not open a shop.”

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: Look at the big picture. Creating a modern business plan will help you think through the hard issues. Tell your friends and family about your self-employment. You never know what contacts they might have, and those close to you will want to help.

FALL / WINTER 2010 CHALDEAN COMMERCE 1�

Kristen SagmaniPresident COACHP.O. Box 252735West Bloomfi eld, MI 48325(248) 522-2441CoachInfo.org

Kristen Sagmani is the founder, president and program director of Chaldean Outreach And

Community Hope (COACH) – an unpaid volunteer position that “involves more hours than my profes-sion requires,” she says. “What I love most is the gift of giving.” The organization helps Iraqi refugees adjust to their new lives in America.

BeST ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD: You can only lead others where you yourself are prepared to go. Be the example you want to set. If you cannot accom-plish that much, you are not the leader you hoped you were.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: Stay strong and don’t give up! Be persistent and consistent. Show the world what you are made of. Many times I have just wanted to throw in the towel and give up. Then I think, what if my parents did that 40 years ago as immigrants?

Dora genevieve Hermiz SokolowskiAttorney and Counselor at LawThe Lex Firm, PC26711 Northwestern Highway, Suite 200Southfi eld, MI 48033(248) 353-7800TheLexFirm.com

“I always defended my four little sisters along with kids from school who were considered nerds or picked on,” says Dora Genevieve Hermiz Sokolowski, who handles litigation and transactional needs. “I still do the same, just now with bigger stakes and a law license.”

BeST ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD: My dad used to say, “He judges to whom the end belongs.” Meaning, God judges each one of us according to how we live our life at its end. We have no business judging others. That’s God’s job.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: You need tough skin to handle trial by error and criticism, but take it all to heart and build on mistakes. When you follow money, there is never enough; when you follow what you love, the money comes because you end up becoming the master of your trade.

Sathab Abbo OusachiImmigration AttorneyEllis Porter PLC2701 Troy Center DriveSuite 410Troy, MI 48084(248) 519-9900EllisPorter.com

“The ability to positively impact people’s lives by uniting families, advocat-ing on their behalf, help-

ing them reach their career goals and delivering an-swers and hope to what is otherwise a complex area of the law to navigate” is how Sathab Abbo Ousachi describes her work as an immigration attorney.

BeST PIece OF ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD:

Be a good person.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: Remain steadfast and true to what defi nes you and your goals, never lose sight of your career passion, and most im-portantly, exercise humility and a desire to help others in everything you do.

Ann Sandiha-HwierOwner Beauty By Ann Spa & Salon1146 East West Maple RoadWalled Lake, MI 48309(248) 926-5324BeautyByAnnSpaAndSalon.com

“I love being able to manage everything myself,” says Ann Sandiha-Hwier, whose one-stop beauty shop offers laser hair removal, electrolysis hair removal, skin care, hair and nail services, and more.

BeST ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD: Go with my instincts to follow my dream.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: Go out and work hard to follow your dreams.

Lynne Meredith SchreiberChief Creative Offi cer and OwnerYour People LLC25444 Southwood DriveSouthfi eld, MI 48075(248) 376-0406YourPpl.com

“As a single mother, I love the fl exibility self-employ-ment allows – I can participate in my children’s school and extracurricular functions without hesitation,” says Lynne Meredith Schreiber, who owns a full-service business development, public relations and market-ing guidance fi rm for small to medium businesses, including startups. “Also, being self-employed brings a higher level of satisfaction to everything I do.”

BeST ADVIce SHe’S ReceIVeD: “Set a higher ideal to work toward,” from Swami Parthasarathy, an Indian philosopher.

HeR ADVIce TO SHARe: Believe in yourself. Believe in your work. Never say “can’t.” Find mentors and nurture those relationships. You will only be as successful as you can envision yourself being. Be grateful. Be humble. Always strive to be “of service.”

18 CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL / WINTER 2010

feature

Chaldean business owners “have made an impact on the city of Detroit more than any other group,” Mayor Dave Bing told attendees

at a luncheon on November 3 hosted by the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce.

“I do respect your community very much – you are entrepreneurs like me,” Bing said at the Fifth Annual Business Conference, held at the Regency Manor in Southfield.

Bing noted that Chaldean store owners “didn’t run away” as Detroit began its decline but have historically been taken for granted.

“I’ve got to give you every opportunity to expand your businesses and knock down government barriers,” he said. “You are a very integral part of the city. You’re the ones that make this economy grow.”

John Loussia, co-chair of the Detroit Independent Grocers, said he appreciated the remarks – the first time, he said, that a Detroit mayor has praised Chal-

dean store owners in public and in front of the press.“In the past there have been nice comments only when

there was no media around, so that’s a pretty good change in itself,” said Loussia, who owns Value Wholesale in Oak Park. “Mayor Bing seems to be a man of his word and will try absolutely hard to be responsible. It seems like he’s reaching out to everybody; he knows that for this city and state to come back, everyone needs to be involved.”

Bing acknowledged that Detroit has historically of-fered incentives to lure in large chain stores like Meijer, but done virtually nothing to help existing businesses. The mayor called that a “mistake” and said, “the same

incentives being offered to people to come here need to be offered to the people who are here” – a com-ment greeted by applause.

Bing said he wants to build up the riverfront and see more growth along the Midtown Woodward Cor-ridor. “Those of you interested in investments, that’s the area to look,” he said.

“I thought it was a positive speech. I do feel op-timistic about Detroit itself but we really need manu-facturing to create jobs and bring more people into the city,” said Norman Yaldoo, owner of University Foods in Detroit. “Mayor Bing has been a business-man himself for many years so he understands what we face on a daily basis. I believe he is true to his word. He said we’ve left an imprint on the city, now we’re waiting for the good times to come around.”

Bing also addressed crime, noting that due to paperwork, travel time and court appearances, the average police officer is only on the street three and a half hours during an eight-hour shift. “We’ve got to get our officers into the neighborhoods where the crimes are committed,” he said, adding that he believes response times are improving.

The mayor, a former basketball star and success-ful business owner, noted that he has a tough job as the head of Detroit. “People ask me, ‘do you like what you do?’ he said. “I tell them, ‘hell no – but I am seeing a change.’”

Above: Mayor Dave Bing addresses the luncheon attendees.

Left: Ron Acho, Frank Jonna, Jimmy Jonna and Anmar Sarafa chat it up.

Bing Lauds Grocers, Pledges Cooperation

“You are a very integral part of the city. You’re the ones that make this economy grow.”

– Detroit Mayor Dave Bing

NEW

mem

bersNew Corporate MembersDeTROIT POPcORn cOMPAnY Evan Singer, Vice President 14950 Telegraph RoadRedford, MI 48239 T (800) 642-CORN F (313) 387-4600esinger@detroitpopcorn.com www.detroitpopcorn.com Concession equipment, supply and food dealer providing supplies, sales, rentals, service, slush machines, syrups, nachos and party rentals

eLLIS PORTeR PLc Sathab Abbo Ousachi, Marc A. Topoleski & Shaju J. Jacob 2701 Troy Center Drive, Suite 410 Troy, MI 48084T (248) 519-9900F (248) 519-9901Sathab.Ousachi@ellisporter.com www.ellisporter.com Immigration law firm

HeRTz ScHRAM, PcJay Yasso, Partner 1760 South Telegraph Road, Suite 300Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302T (248) 355-5000F (248) 335-3346jyasso@hertzschram.com www.hertzschram.com Southeast Michigan business, criminal law, estate and securities law firm

MeADOWBROOK InSuRAnce AgencY Justin D. Johnson, Vice President 26255 American DriveSouthfield, MI 48034T (248) 358-1100F (248) 281-0785Justin.johnson@meadowbrook.com www.meadowbrookagency.com Full-line retail insurance agency with access to all major insurance carriers

VeRIzOn WIReLeSS Shatha Zaia, National Business Account Executive26935 Northwestern Highway, Suite 100Southfield, MI 48033 T (248) 508-1098F (614) 560-2704 Shatha.zaia@verizonwireless.com zaiash@gl.verizonwireless.com www.verizonwireless.com Wireless provider that owns and operates the largest mobile telecommunications network in the United States

WIReLeSS TOYzNate Hamama, President of Sales 21955 Northwestern HighwaySouthfield, MI 48034 T (248) 426-8200F (248) 351-0544nate@wirelesstoyz.com www.wirelesstoyz.com Cellular and satellite retailer with locations nationwide

New Partner MembersSuPeRVALu Steve Caramagno 1003 Bellbrook Avenue Xenia, OH 45385 T (937) 374-7611 F (937) 374-7751Steve.x.caramagno@wnewell.com www.supervalu.com Grocery retail and supply chain service provider

WILLIAMS KHeRKHeR Steven J. Kherkher, Partner 8441 Gulf Freeway, Suite 600Houston, TX 77017 T (800) 220-9341F (713) 643-6226 skherkher@williamskherkher.com www.williamskherkher.com Mass tort, mesothelioma and personal injury law firm

New Business MembersAKT PeeRLeSS enVIROnMenTAL & eneRgY SeRVIceSAnthony Kashat, President 22725 Orchard Lake RoadFarmington, MI 48336T (248) 615-1333F (248) 615-1334kashata@aktpeerless.com www.aktpeerless.com Consulting firm dealing providing environmental, redevelopment and energy services

AMeRIcA’S BeST Inn gRAnD RAPIDS HOTeL Mason Yaldo, President 35 28th Street S. W. Grand Rapids, MI 49548 T (800) 237-8466 F (616) 452-0046masonyaldo25@yahoo.com www.americasbestinn.com Clean, comfortable and affordable lodging

AnMAR THWenI, c.P.A. P.c. Anmar Thweni, President 31513 Northwestern HighwayFarmington Hills, MI 48334T (248) 855-5017 F (248) 334-6014atcpa@sbcglobal.net Certified public accounting firm

ARBOnne AnD uTILITIeS cHOIceS InTeRnATIOnAL Dawn Klock, Representative1551 Cass Lake RoadKeego Harbor, MI 48320T (734) 334-3240dawnklock@yahoo.com Network marketing and sales

Az InVeSTMenTS, LLc Michael Zeer, Member 30230 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 250 Farmington Hills, MI 48334T (248) 419-1253 F (248) 683-3540 mikezeer@aol.com Utility and natural gas sales

BAKeR’S DeLIgHT, Inc. Fida Faranso, President 33896 Dequindre Road Sterling Heights, MI 48310 T (586) 268-8000F (248) 776-4436Bakersdelight586@yahoo.com Unique cake decorating, candy making supplies and classes

BASSAM HADDAD cARPenTRY Bassam Haddad, Owner 29539 Ravenscroft Farmington Hills, MI 48331T (248) 730-0381 Carpentry, handyman, kitchens

BeAuMOnT PHARMAcY WeST BLOOMFIeLDHeather Gallozi-Akrawi, R. Ph. 6900 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 104West Bloomfield, MI 48322T (248) 855-5505F (248) 855-5504beaumontrxwb@yahoo.com Full-service pharmacy BeAuTY BY Ann SPA & SALOn Ann Sandiha-Hwier, Owner 1143 E. West Maple Rod Walled Lake, MI 48390T (248) 926-5324 F (248) 926-5322 info@beautybyannspasalon.com www.beautybyannspaandsalon.com One-stop beauty shop

BeLLA LIquOR & WIne gALLeRY Ihsan Atto, Owner50978 Romeo Plank Road Macomb Township, MI 48044T (586) 226-0066info@attousa.com www.bellaliquorwinegallery.com Convenience store with an extensive range of liquor, beer and wine

c & I SeALcOATIngS, Inc. John Collias, President 5559 Fox Chase Lane Clarkston, MI 48346T (248) 623-0912 F (248) 623-7966 c_isealcoat@yahoo.com Asphalt driveway and parking lot maintenance

cHuRcHILLS cIgAR SHOP OF WeST BLOOMFIeLD Nash Zaitouna, Owner 6635 Orchard Lake Road West Bloomfield, MI 48322T (248) 855-0300 nash@churchillsltd.com Cigar shop and lounge

cuSTOM DeSIgn SecuRITY Dale Pacynski, President 31411 W. Eight Mile Road Livonia, MI 48152 T (248) 442-2233F (248) 442-7140 dale@evolutionavs.com www.evolutionavs.com Residential and commercial security and surveillance equipment provider and service

DAWn SHAOunI STATe FARM Dawn Shaouni, Agent 89 W. South BoulevardTroy, MI 48085 T (248) 879-8901 F (248) 879-8912 Dawn.shaouni.myar@statefarm.com Provides insurance and financial services

DIVA DeSIgn JeWeLRY Vatche Minassian, Owner 23077 Greenfield Road, Suite 353Southfield, MI 48075 T (248) 424-7337F (248) 424-7210Vami918@aol.com Wholesale and custom jewelry, diamond and gold sales

eLITe DenTAL cARe Leena M. Bahu, DDS 6765 Orchard Lake Road West Bloomfield, MI 48322T (248) 851-6166 F (248) 851-0012Lmbahu01@yahoo.com www.elitedentalcaredds.com Comprehensive dental care for all ages

eLITe eRRAnDS eTc. Marcine Karmo, Owner P.O. Box 251432 West Bloomfield, MI 48325 T (248) 798-4048F (248) 356-3936 info@eliteerrandsetc.comwww.eliteerrandsetc.com Errand and concierge service assisting clients with personal shopping services, administrative services and more

DR. eLLen PLASTIc & RecOnSTRucTIVe SuRgeRY Ellen A. Janetzke, MD390 Park Street, Suite 201 Birmingham, MI 48009T (248) 258-5100 info@drellen.com Plastic surgery, body contouring injectables

eSSence cLOTHIng Jennifer Curis & Vanessa Kejbou Foumia, Co-Owners6690 B Orchard Lake RoadWest Bloomfield, MI 48322T (248) 539-1905F (248) 539-8011 shopessence@sbcglobal.netWomen’s clothing and accessory store with an eclectic mix of merchandise for all ages

exOTIc MARBLe & gRAnITe Harmez Allos, Owner 14293 23 Mile Road, Suite BShelby Township, MI 48315T (586) 532-1965F (586) 532-1969Exoticgranite58@yahoo.com www.exotic-granite.com Custom granite and marble design and installation

FLAgSTAR BAnK Olivia V. Poota, Assistant Branch Manager 33390 14 Mile Road West Bloomfield, MI 48322T (248) 539-3987F (248) 539-7929 olivia.poota@flagstar.com Full-service banking institution

FRAMeABLe FAceS PHOTOgRAPHYAlly Cohen / Doug Cohen6369A Orchard Lake RoadWest Bloomfield, MI 48322T (248) 790-7317F (248) 671-5073ally@frameablefaces.comwww.frameablefaces.comPhotography (portrait), family, newborn, maternity & high school seniors

FROMMeR & ASSOcIATeS Larry Frommer, Vice President 31860 Northwestern HighwayFarmington Hills, MI 48334T (248) 855-0080F (248) 855-0405 larry.frommer@fommercapital.com www.frommercapital.com Comprehensive financial services firm dealing with life insurance, disability insurance, long term care insurance, property and casualty insurance

gHAzWAn ATTO, MD, Pc Ghazwan Atto, MD2211 Fort Street Wyandotte, MI 48192 T (734) 246-5705F (734) 246-5750 Internal medicine

J-MAcK InVeSTIgATIOnS & SecuRITY Kevin Cronin, Vice President P.O. Box 645 St. Clair Shores, MI 48080 T (586) 293-6500F (313) 483-3737 Kevin@jmackagency.com www.JMackAgency.com Investigative and security solutions

JAMeS Y. RAYIS, PcJames Rayis, Principal 401 South Old Woodward Avenue, Suite 201 Birmingham, MI 48009T (248) 203-0225 F (248) 203-0205jyr@hardylewis.com International law firm

JAPPAYA LAW, PLc Shawn Jappaya, J.D., CPA7125 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 222West Bloomfield, MI 48322T (248) 626-6800F (248) 626-6805sjappaya@jappayalaw.com www.jappayalaw.com Full service law firm offering a wide range of legal services with an emphasis on business and tax-related matters

JARVIS PROPeRTY ReSTORATIOn Bill Jarvis, President 41800 Executive DriveHarrison Township, MI 48045 T (866) 452-7847F (586) 954-4707 bjarvis@jarvisconstruction.com www.jarvisconstruction.com Total fire, wind and water damage re-pairs and insurance restoration

K-KAS, Inc. Kenny Kasyouhanan, Manager 8184 Dixie HighwayNewport, MI 48166T (248) 866-1656Kenkas616@gmail.com Convenience store

LAWRence TecHnOLOgIcAL unIVeRSITY Stephen E. Brown, Vice President of Uni-versity Advancement 21000 W. 10 Mile Road Southfield, MI 48075T (800) CALL-LTUF (248) 204-2207sbrown@ltu.edu www.ltu.edu Private university for higher education offering four-year, graduate and certifi-cate degrees

LIeBeRMAn, gIeS & cOHen, PLLcSteven J. Cohen, Member30500 Northwestern Highway, Suite 307 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 539-5500 F (248) 539-5581steve@lgcpllc.com www.lgcpllc.com Law firm that represents individuals and businesses in all areas of debtor and creditor rights law, including bankruptcy, insolvency and out-of-court workouts

LuAY HADDAD, MDLuay Haddad, MD5575 Haverhill Street West Bloomfield, MI 48322T (248) 914-0117 lhadda@med.wayne.edu Psychiatry

MAnSOuR & MAnSOuR, P.c.Victor Mansour, President/Attorney32000 Northwestern Highway, Suite 180Farmington Hills, MI 48334T (248) 932-3322F (248) 855-8304 victor@mansourlawpc.com www.mansourlawpc.com Law firm

NEW

mem

bers

20 CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL / WINTER 2010

MASq BeAuTY Summerita Ayar & Marisa Qarana, Co-Owners798 N. Old Woodward AvenueBirmingham, MI 48009T (248) 723-MASQ F (248) 723-6278summerita@masqbeauty.com www.MASQbeauty.com Full-service brow and makeup boutique, cosmetics and accessories

MASTeRcRAFT HeATIng & cOOLIng Steven Bez, Vice President 26641 Grand RiverRedford, MI 48240T (313) 533-5700F (313) 533-5737smbezzer@yahoo.com Heating, cooling and plumbing

MIcHIgAn eAR nOSe & THROAT ASSOcIATeS Sam John Bahu, MD 44200 Woodward Avenue, Suite 201Pontiac, MI 48341 T (248) 334-9490F (248) 636-1170info@michiganent.com www.michiganent.com Board-certified physicians specializing in the treatment of diseases of the head and neck, plastic and reconstructive sur-gery and hearing restoration

RAY cLeAnIng SeWeR & PLuMBIng SeRVIceWelson Polis, Owner 3998 Capitol Avenue Warren, MI 48091T (586) 563-4602 Plumbing, sewer cleaning, water damage repair

ROMuLuS MARKeT PLAce Shabib Kasgorgis, Owner 36521 Goddard Road Romulus, MI 48174T (734) 941-4300F (734) 941-4334www.romulusmarketplace.com Supermarket featuring quality meat, dairy and produce

SeSI DeSIgn gROuPJoseph Sesi, Art Director 26100 American Drive, Suite 410Southfield, MI 48034T (248) 421-7895F (248) 327-6238joe@sesidesign.com www.sesidesign.com Graphic design, marketing, advertising and printing

SMILe AMeRIcA DenTAL cenTeR Nidaa Abdal, DDS30890 W. 10 Mile RoadFarmington Hills, MI 48336T (248) 478-0900nabdaldds@yahoo.com www.smileamericadds.com Comprehensive dentistry

THegARBAgeMAn.cOM Sherman Rogers, President4751 22 Mile Road Shelby Township, MI 48317T (877) 311-6598 F (586) 254-9936 Sherman@all-waste.com www.thegarbageman.com Front load and roll-off container provider for waste disposal

TRADeFIRST.cOM Nancy Forte, Account Executive 23200 Coolidge HighwayOak Park, MI 48237T (248) 544-1350F (248) 544-1546nclavel@tradefirst.com www.tradefirst.com Business to business bartering and trade company

WIReLeSS uSAEd Najor & Louie Gomma, Owners 30780 Grand River Avenue Farmington, MI 48336T (248) 395-2222F (248) 615-2255 najorawadisinc@earthlink.net Communication services and retail

New Non-Profit Members cOAcH (cHALDeAn OuTReAcH AnD cOMMunITY HOPe) Kristen Sagmani, President P.O. Box 252735 West Bloomfield, MI 48325T (248) 522-2441Kristen@coachinfo.org www.coachinfo.org Non-profit organization with the mission to unite and educate within and beyond the Chaldean community

PReSBYTeRIAn VILLAgeS OF MIcHIgAn Roger L. Myers, President/CEO26200 Lahser Road, Suite 300Southfield, MI 48033T (248) 281-2020F (248) 281-2062 rmyers@pvm.org www.pvm.org Senior living guided by Christian heritage, serving older adults of all faiths and creating new possibilities for quality senior living

New individual Members VenuS ABRAHIM venusa@graphinity.com

WALLY ABRO wallyabro@yahoo.com

WenDY AcHO achowendy@yahoo.com

SAnDRA K. ALexAnDeR skalexander@resnicklaw.net

WISAM BATOW Wisam.kachi@apollocompanies.com

JOAnn BRAnDOn joannbrandon@comcast.net

RAMzI cHRAIM rchraim@ford.com

FLORence DALLO, PH.D. dallo@oakland.edu

JAY DuBRInKSY jayd@university-lending.com

MIcHeLe ecOnOMOu-uReSTe m_eu@wbtwp.com

SuzAnne FARAnSO suzannefaranso@yahoo.com

cOReY FARRIScfm7777@yahoo.com

MIcHAeL gARAVAgLIA mjg1962@gmail.com

cHRISTOPHeR HAJJAR chajjar@aol.com

MIKe HAJJAR mikehajjar333@gmail.com

JOSePH M. HeISLeRjoseph.heisler@prudential.com

nADA JAMOuA jamouan@yahoo.com

STeVen KAPLAn s_kaplan@wbtwp.com

KRISTInA KASeD tinak430@yahoo.com

LAWRence KInAIA larryk49@gmail.com

ROBeRT KOuzA robert.kouza@plantemoran.com

TALAL MuKHTARtmukhtar@aol.com

STePHAnIe TeRI nAJOR stnajor@glpinsurance.com

guS SHAMOOn gusshamoon@gmail.com

STeVe SuOLAKA stsuaka@yahoo.com

WILLIAM THOMAS williambill.thomas@gmail.com

TeRI WeIngARDen

BILL WYLOnIS bwylonis@yahoo.com

nAJWA YOnO nyono11@aol.com

SILVIA zOMA

FALL / WINTER 2010 CHALDEAN COMMERCE 21

Renewed Corporate Members ATLAS OIL cOMPAnYDon Glenn, Vice President of Sales & Marketing 24501 Ecorse RoadTaylor, MI 48180T (313) 292-5500F (313) 731-1591dglenn@atlasoil.com www.atlasoil.com Leading oil distribution company

BLue cROSS BLue SHIeLD OF MIcHIgAn Equilla Wainwright, Vice President of Diversity & Community Responsibility 600 E. Lafayette BoulevardDetroit, MI 48226T (313) 225-9000F (313) 987-9310ewainwright@bcbsm.com www.bcbsm.com Health and dental insurance carrier

cAeSARS WInDSOR HOTeL & cASInO Danial Ibrahim, Manager of Regional Marketing 377 Riverside Drive East Windsor, ON, N9A 7H7 Canada T (800) 991-7777F (519) 258-6043Ibrahim@caesarswindsor.com www.caesarswindsor.com Luxurious hotel and casino

DeAn FOODS / cOunTRY FReSH Kevin Begin, General Manager 31770 Enterprise DriveLivonia, MI 48150T (734) 261-7980F (734) 261-2633 Kevin_begin@deanfoods.com www.enjoycountryfresh.com Food and beverage manufacturing and distribution

DeTROIT MeDIcAL cenTeR Lynn M. Torossian, President 1 William Carls Drive Commerce Township, MI 48382T (248) 937-3300ltorossian@dmc.org www.dmc.org Medical system known for research, education and technology

DOLLAR cASTLe, Inc. Eddie Denha, Founder & CEO 7031 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 201West Bloomfield, MI 48322T (866) 682-7379F (248) 539-1778info@dollarcastle.com www.dollarcastle.com Dollar store franchise

DOMInO’S PIzzA LLcMike Mettler, Director of Franchise Recruiting & Sales 30 Frank Lloyd Wright DriveAnn Arbor, MI 48105T (734) 930-3030

F (734) 930-3324 mettler@dominos.com www.dominos.com International pizza delivery corporation headquarters

HenRY FORD WeST BLOOMFIeLD HOSPITAL Gerard van Grinsven, President & CEO 6777 W. Maple RoadWest Bloomfield, MI 48322T (248) 661-7223 F (248) 661-7274mcandel@hfhs.org www.hfhs.org State-of-art hospital with more than 1,000 physicians and researchers in 40-plus specialties

SHeRWOOD FOOD DISTRIBuTORS Earl D. Ishbia, CEO 12499 Evergreen Road Detroit, MI 48228T (313) 659-7300F (313) 659-7501eishbia@sherwoodfoods.comwww.sherwoodfoods.com Wholesaler of meat, poultry and other foods

VARnuM, RIDDeRIng, ScHMIDT & HOWLeTT, LLPMichael J. Romaya, Associate 39500 High Pointe Boulevard, Suite 350Novi, MI 48375T (248) 567-7400F (248) 567-7440mjromaya@varnumlaw.com www.varnumlaw.com Regional business law firm providing services in a full range of practice areas

WAYne STATe unIVeRSITY Ahmad M. Ezzeddine, Ph. D., Associate Vice President for Educational Outreach 656 W. KirbyDetroit, MI 48202T (313) 577-4450F (313) 577-7744a.m.ezzeddine@wayne.edu www.educationaoutreach.wayne.edu Higher education institution

Renewed Business Members A & L MARKeT Neal Ayar, Owner 10826 Joy RoadDetroit, MI 48204T (313) 834-2920 aandlmarket@sbcglobal.net Supermarket with quality meat, dairy goods and fresh produce

AcceSSORIeS BY STePHAnIe Stephanie Oram, Owner 6777 W. Maple RoadWest Bloomfield, MI 48322T (248) 661-4322stephanie@fashionsbystef.com

www.fashionsbystef.com One-of-a-kind fashion, jewelry and accessories

AIRVOIce WIReLeSS, LLc Jim Bahri, Owner 2425 Franklin Road Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302T (888) 944-2355F (248) 239-0182 jbahri@airvoicewireless.comwww.airvoiceunlimited.com Prepaid wireless carrier

ALKAMAnO P. c., cPA Jason Alkamano, CPA & President 32000 Northwestern Highway, Suite 180Farmington Hills, MI 48334T (248) 865-8500F (248) 865-8501 jason@alkamano.com www.alkamano.com Certified public accountant firm

AMeRIcAn RenTALS, Inc. Stacy Hart, Sales Executive 4901 W Grand River Avenue Lansing, MI 48906T (800) 637-1110F (517) 323-7446 stacyhart@wereintents.comwww.wereintents.com Tent and party rentals for all occasions

ATLAS MARKeT Neil Abro, Owner 2645 W. Davison Detroit, MI 48238T (313) 868-2000 F (313) 868-2004 Atlas0610@aol.com Supermarket with quality meat, dairy goods and fresh produce

AuTOSMART AMeRIcA Bassim Robin, CEO 14444 E. Eight Mile Road Detroit, MI 48305T (313) 372-2522F (313) 372-2989bassim@autosmartamerica.com www.autosmartamerica.com Pre-owned automotive dealer

BAHOuRA BARRIngeR, PLcEvan Bahoura, CPA, Partner31800 Northwestern Highway, Suite 210Farmington Hills, MI 48334T (248) 539-7799F (248) 539-7885ebahoura@b2plc.com www.b2plc.com Certified public accounting firm

cAPITAL SALeS cOMPAnY Sam Haddad, Owner 1471 E. Nine Mile Road Hazel Park, MI 48030 T (248) 542-4400F (248) 542- 2100csccapital@aol.com Independent food wholesale and dis-tributor of retail products

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cenTRAL ALARM SIgnAL, Inc. Robert Hakim, President 13400 W. Seven Mile Road Detroit, MI 48235T (800) 99-PANIC F (313) 864-8903 roberth@99panic.com www.99panic.comProfessional commercial and residential security services

cHOcOLATeS BY Renee Stephanie Acho-Tartoni, Owner 118 E. Main Street Northville, MI 48167 T (248) 349-6362F (248) 349-6666info@chocolatesbyrenee.com www.chocolatesbyrenee.com Quality handmade chocolates, assortments and designs

cLAWSOn PHARMAcY Gabe Zawaideh, R. Ph., Owner 560 W. 14 Mile RoadClawson, MI 48017 T (248) 280-0115 F (248) 280-1026 gzawaideh@gmail.com Health and medicine pharmacy

cOnSuMeRS PARTY SHOPPe Mario Sattam, Owner 20040 W. McNichols Road Detroit, MI 48219 T (313) 531-3031 F (313) 531-3160consumersbeverage@gmail.com Convenience store with an extensive range of liquor, beer and wine

cORRIgAn OIL cO. Timothy H. Corrigan, Vice President 775 N. 2nd Street Brighton, MI 48116 T (810) 229-6323F (810) 229-4970 tim@corriganoil.com www.corriganoil.com Distributor of light- and heavy-duty fuels and lubricants in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana

DAVID ReeD PHOTOgRAPHY David Reed1323 W. Farnum Avenue Royal Oak, MI 48067T (248) 548-6340davidsimages@wowway.com Professional photography services

DenHA MeDIA & cOMMunIcATIOnS Vanessa Denha-Garmo, President (248) 702-8687denhamedia@gmail.com Public relations, marketing and video productions

eLITe PARKIng SOLuTIOnS OF MIcHIgAnRichard Abbo, President 3609 Wendrick DriveWest Bloomfield, MI 48323T (248) 821-7424rabbo@eliteparkingsolutions.com

www.eliteparkingsolutions.com Valet parking and parking lot management services

eASTeRn AuTO cOMPAnY, Inc. Nabil & Lars Cholagh 26350 W. Eight Mile Road Southfield, MI 48033T (248) 350-2820F (248) 350-2723easternautocompany@gmail.com High-tech auto shop specializing in European luxury and high-perfor-mance vehicles

execuTIVe LAnguAge SeRVIceS, Inc. Rita Denha, Director 21800 W. 10 Mile Road, Suite 117Southfield, MI 48076T (248) 357-0625 F (248) 357-1143rita@execlangser.com www.executivelanguageservicesinc.com Language interpretation and translation services

FARMeR JOHn FOOD cenTeR Sam Sattam, Owner 9731 Harper Avenue Detroit, MI 48213 T (313) 921-0015 F (313) 921-0162 farmer.johns@yahoo.com Supermarket with quality meat, dairy goods and fresh produce

FeRnDALe cOLLISIOn & AuTO RePAIR cenTeR, Inc. Dennis Zoma, Owner 180 Vester StreetFerndale, MI 48220 T (248) 545-1920F (248) 545-8797dennis@ferndalecollision.comwww.ferndalecollision.com Full-service auto body and collision repair

FIRST InDePenDence BAnK Natalie Conyers, Director of Sales & Marketing 44 Michigan Avenue Detroit, MI 48226 T (313) 256-8400F (313) 256-8203natalieconyers@firstindependence.com www.firstindependence.com Community banking for businesses and individuals

FOOD PALAce SuPeRMARKeT Randy Kassab, Owner 4809 E. Seven Mile RoadDetroit, MI 48234T (313) 892-1940F (313) 892-2769 randel921@yahoo.com Supermarket with quality meat, dairy goods and fresh produce

gAV & ASSOcIATeS Ghassan N. Abdelnour, Co-Owner 31471 Northwestern Highway, Suite 2 Farmington Hills, MI 48334T (248) 985-9101

F (248) 985-9105 Ghassan@gavassociates.com www.gavassociates.com Full-service architectural firm

gARMO & ASSOcIATeS, P. c. Steven. N Garmo, Partner 28230 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 210 Farmington Hills, MI 48334T (248) 626-0050F (248) 626-0051steve@garmo.comsteve@garmo.com www.garmo.com Immigration law firm

gASSO gROuP, LLc Najah Gasso, Managing Member 20320 W. Eight Mile Road Southfield, MI 48075 T (248) 353-4754F (248) 353-1266najahgasso@comcast.netCommercial and real estate development

HAMPTOn Inn – cOMMeRce TOWnSHIP Basil Bacall, Owner 169 Loop RoadCommerce Township, MI 48390T (248) 624-8100 F (248) 624-0500Dttni_hampton@hilton.com Quality, value-priced hotel in Oakland County

HOLBROOK InSuRAnce AgencY Alicia Holbrook, Agent 29856 Northwestern Highway Southfield, MI 48034T (248) 996-9188aliciaholbrook@holbrookia.com www.holbrookia.com Independent insurance agency dealing with more than a dozen carriers

InTeRnATIOnAL OuTDOOR, Inc. Randy Oram, General Manager 28423 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 200Farmington Hills, MI 48334T (248) 489-8989F (248) 489-8990randy@iobillboard.com www.iobillboard.comAdvertising company specializing in bulletin billboards

InTRASTATe DISTRIBuTORS, Inc. Tim Dabish, President 6400 E. Eight Mile RoadDetroit, MI 48234T (313) 892-3000F (313) 892-2104office@townclub.com www.townclub.com Beverage wholesale corporation

InVeSTIcO DeVeLOPMenT cORPNed Hakim, Principal 22580 Telegraph RoadFarmington Hills, MI 48033T (248) 356-1230 F (248) 356-0163 info@investicodev.com www.investicodev.comReal estate development and management

FALL / WINTER 2010 CHALDEAN COMMERCE 23

JOnnA cOnSTRucTIOn cOMPAnY, LLc Frank Jonna, CEO 39533 Woodward Avenue, Suite 150Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302T (248) 352-1550F (248) 352-8764fgjonna@jonnaco.com www.jonnacompanies.com Construction services including general contracting, construction management, and design build

JuDeH & ASSOcIATeS Jumana Judeh, President22952 Outer DriveDearborn, MI 48124T (313) 277-1986F (313) 277-8634jumanaj@judehonline.com www.judehonline.com Real estate valuation and consulting firm

KuLLen & KASSAB, P. c. Burt Kassab, Vice President31000 Northwestern Highway, Suite 100Farmington Hills, MI 48334T (238) 538-2200F (248) 538-2201bkassab@k2lawyers.com www.k2lawyers.com Law firm specializing in commercial trans-actions and litigation

LAnDMARK cOMMeRcIAL ReAL eSTATe SeRVIceS John Kello, Partner27995 Halsted Road, Suite 150 Farmington Hills, MI 48331T (248) 488-2620F (248) 488-2611jkello@landmarkcres.com www.landmarkcres.com Retail real estate brokerage firm

THe LARK Adrian Lark, General Manager 6430 Farmington Road West Bloomfield, MI 48322 T (248) 661-4466 F (248) 661-8891 office@thelark.com www.thelark.com High-end eclectic, Parisian dining

LAW OFFIceS OF DORAID S. MARKuS Doraid S. Markus, Partner 29800 Telegraph Road Southfield, MI 48034 T (248) 353-6500F (248) 353-2514dsmarkus@yahoo.com Criminal law firm

LeVeL One BAnK Pat Fehring, President & CEO 30201 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 250Farmington Hills, MI 48334T (248) 737-0300F (248) 737-7195pfehring@levelonebank.com www.levelonebanking.com Locally owned, full-service commercial and consumer bank

LeVIne, BenJAMIn, Pc Lorenzo A. D’Agostini, Attorney 27700 Northwestern Highway 100 Galleria Officentre, Suite 411Southfield, MI 48034T (248) 352-5700 T (248) 352-1312 ladagostini@levinebenjamin.com www.levinebenjamin.com Social Security disability, workers compen-sation, and civil personal injury law firm

LIBeRTY InTeRnATIOnAL WHOLeSALeMike Dikhow, President 21535 Hoover RoadWarren, MI 48089 T (586) 755-3629 F (586) 755-3149libertwhsl@aol.com www.libertywholesale.com Full-service grocery distributor

LODgIng enTeRPRISeS Faiq Konja, President & CEO 4257 Margate LaneBloomfield Hills, MI 48302T (248) 865-8802 ftkonja@aol.com Full-service hotel and lodging

LuxOR LIquORClint Kassab, Owner10425 W. McNichols RoadDetroit, MI 48221T (313) 341-0071luxorliquors@sbcglobal.net Convenience store with an extensive range of liquor, beer and wine

MAInSTReeT MARKeTPLAce, Inc. Robert Kassab, Owner 3171 Union Lake RoadCommerce Township, MI 48382 T (248) 363-2611F (248) 363-7223Fax911@aol.com Market featuring an extensive selection of quality meat, dairy goods and fresh produce

MATcHALDeAn, LLcTheresa Sitto, Matchmaker7 W. Square Lake Road Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302T (248) 758-2303matchmaker@matchaldean.com www.matchaldean.com Matchmaking services

MeP engIneeRS Steve Metti, Principal30903 W. 10 Mile Road, Suite BFarmington Hills, MI 48336T (248) 488-9822F (248) 488-9811steve@msceonline.com www.msceonline.com Engineering, architectural and planning services

MeTcOM, Inc. Thomas R. Warnez, President & CEO21643 E. Nine Mile RoadSt. Clair Shores, MI 48080T (586) 772-8860F (586) 772-9054twarnez@metcom-inc.comwww.metcom-inc.com Single source consumables procurement management company

MeTRO SuPeRMARKeT, Inc. Jim Farida, Owner 6461 W. Warren Avenue Detroit, MI 48210 T (313) 894-0200F (313) 894-5858Supermarket with quality meat, dairy goods and fresh produce

OAKLAnD unIVeRSITYRonald Sudol, Dean, College of Arts & Sciences217 Varner Hall Rochester, MI 48309T (248) 370-2140T (248) 370-4280sudol@oakland.edu www.oakland.edu Higher education institution

OMnI InVeSTMenT & DeVeLOPMenT gROuP, LLc Nicholas Faranso, President280 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Suite 107Birmingham, MI 48009T (248) 203-1430F (248) 203-1431 nick@omniidg.com www.omniidg.com Financial advisory services

One SOuRce TALenT Anthony Toma, President3250 W. Big Beaver Road, Suite 526Troy, MI 48084 T (248) 816-7900F (248) 816-7910Anthony@onesourcetalent.com www.onesourcetalent.com Talent agency providing consulting ser-vices for fashion and acting communities OuTDOOR AccenTS Mark Garmo, Owner 2245 Keith RoadWest Bloomfield, MI 48324T (248) 366-3052F (248) 685-2900mark.garmo@outdooraccentsinc.comwww.outdooraccentsinc.com Full-service landscape construction company PARKWAY FOODS Louay Nona, Owner 13210 E. Jefferson AvenueDetroit, MI 48215T (313) 823-2444 parkwayfoods@yahoo.com Supermarket with quality meat, dairy goods and fresh produce

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RKA PeTROLeuM cOMPAnIeS, Inc. Kerry Rehbine, Retail Branding Rep28340 Wick RoadRomulus, MI 48174T (734) 946-2199F (734) 946-4772 krehbine@rkapetroleum.com www.rkapetroleum.com Fuel management and petroleum company

ROBInS DISTRIBuTORS, Inc. Michael Robin, CEO 5800 E. Eight Mile RoadDetroit, MI 48234T (313) 891-6830F (313) 891-3024Michaelrobin4@aol.com www.grandpapas.net Distributors of Better Made® potato chips and Grandpapa’s® snacks

ROuMeL SHeenA, cPA, Pc Roumel Sheena, CPA 29500 Telegraph Road, Suite 100 Southfield, MI 48034T (248) 304-8888F (248) 304-8889roumel@roumelsheenacpa.com www.roumelsheenacpa.com Certified public accounting firm specializing in tax and accounting services for all types of businesses

RunnIng RIgHT HeATIng & cOOLIng, LLc Ronald Garmo, PresidentP.O. Box 252152West Bloomfield, MI 48325T (248) 884-1704 F (248) 855-5008runningright@gmail.com www.runningrighthvacr.info Residential and commercial HVAC service and repair

RYAn’S FOODS Ryan Kathawa, Owner 5858 W. Vernor HighwayDetroit, MI 48209 T (313) 843-7440F (313) 843-5350rskathawa@aol.com Supermarket with quality meat, dairy goods and fresh produce SeVen STAR FOOD cenTeR, Inc. Mickey Khemmoro, Owner 11500 E. McNicholsDetroit, MI 48205T (313) 372-8430 F (313) 372-3850Mkhem62@sbcglobal.net Supermarket with quality meat, dairy goods and fresh produce

SHenAnDOAH cOunTRY cLuB Lee Sharkas, Interim General Manager 5600 Walnut Lake Road West Bloomfield, MI 48323T (248) 683-6363F (248) 682-3957lsharkas@shenandoahcc.net www.shenandoahcc.net Banquet hall, conference center and golf course

SHIMOun, YALDO, KASHAT & ASSOcIATeS, PcSal Shimoun, CPA31000 Northwestern Highway, Suite 110Farmington Hills, MI 48334T (248) 851-7900F (248) 851-3955 sshimoun@sycpas.com www.sycpas.com Certified public accounting firm

SOcKS gALORe WHOLeSALe, Inc. Chris Toma, Owner 13105 Capital StreetOak Park, MI 48237T (248) 545-7625F (248) 545-7855socksgalore@sbcglobal.net Wholesale distributor of textiles, socks, t-shirts and ladies hosiery

SOuTHFIeLD FuneRAL HOMe Jerry Yono, Owner 18338 W. 12 Mile RoadSouthfield, MI 48076T (248) 569-8080F (248) 569-3454rabbo@southfieldfuneralhome.com www.southfieldfuneralhome.com Complete funeral services

SPARTAn SeALcOATIng, Inc. Kevin Westlake, President 9690 Andersonville RoadClarkston, MI 48348T (248) 625-1576F (248) 625- 2760kwestlake@spartansealcoating.com www.spartansealcoating.com Pavement maintenance needs of commercial, industrial, and municipal institutions

SuPeRLAnD MARKeT Rebe Najor, Owner 17021 Schoolcraft Detroit, MI 48227T (313) 835-2132F (313) 835-5849superlandmarket@sbcglobal.net Supermarket with quality meat, dairy goods and fresh produce

TAnneR FRIeDMAn Don Tanner, Partner 32255 Northwestern Highway, Suite 298Farmington Hills, MI 48334T (248) 626-0006F (248) 626-0005dtanner@tannerfriedman.comwww.tannerfriedman.com Public relations firm

TOMA & ASSOcIATeS, cPA, Pc Peter Toma, President 28852 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 110Farmington Hills, MI 48334T (248) 254-3500F (248) 254-3501petertoma@tomacpa.com www.tomacpa.com Certified public accounting and consulting firm

TRADeWeLL DISTRIBuTORS Sahir Gappy, President 12821 NorthendOak Park, MI 48237T (248) 542-7924F (248) 542-9924tradewelldist@yahoo.com One of the largest independent food wholesalers and distributors in Metro Detroit

uHY ADVISORSPatrick Gregory, Managing Director 26200 American Drive, Suite 500Southfield, MI 48034T (248) 355-4487F (248) 355-1084 pgregory@uhy-us.comwww.uhy-us.com Tax and business consultants

unITeD WIReLeSS Sarmad Shayota, Owner 32066 Van Dyke Avenue Warren, MI 48093T (586) 446-9400F (586) 446-9480 sshayota@unitedwetalk.com www.unitedwetalk.com Cellular accessories sales and wholesale

VeRA VAuLT, Inc. Ed Babbie, President 280 W. Maple Road, Suite 212Birmingham, MI 48009T (248) 499-0422F (248) 565-4445ebabbie@veravault.comwww.veravault.com Data protection services for businesses

VIcTOR SAROKI & ASSOcIATeS ARcHITecTS, Pc Victor Saroki, President 430 N. Old Woodward AvenueBirmingham, MI 48009T (248) 258-5707F (248) 258-5515 vsaroki@victorsaroki.com www.victorsaroki.com Architectural firm

VIneYARD’S MARKeTPLAce Ron Asmar, Owner 32418 Northwestern Highway Farmington Hills, MI 48334 T (248) 855-9463F (248) 855-0070ron@vineyarddeli.com www.vineyarddeli.com Café, deli and catering

WIReLeSS VISIOn, LLc Saber Ammori, President 21 E. Long Lake Road, Suite 102Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304T (248) 865-0900F (248) 865-0901sammori@wirelessvision.com www.wirelessvision.com Operates 100 exclusive T-Mobile retail stores

FALL / WINTER 2010 CHALDEAN COMMERCE 25

2010 MEMBER SAVINGS NON-MEMBER MEMBER

MeMBeRSHIP In THe DeTROIT RegIOnAL cHAMBeR $80 FREEJAnuARY 28: Quarterly Networking Meeting $45 FREEFeBRuARY 25: Industry Outlook: Franchising at Regency Manor $45 FREEMARcH 10: Intelligence Career Night FREE FREEAPRIL 16: Annual Awards Dinner at Shenandoah Members get fi rst notice to buy tickets to this sell-out event

MAY 11: Chaldean Day in Lansing $45 FREEMAY 12: Quarterly Networking Meeting $45 FREEJune 11-13: Annual Chaldean Festival in Southfi eld Members save $100-$200 on booth rentals

June 24: Annual Golf Outing at Shenandoah Members get fi rst notice to buy tickets to this sell-out event

AuguST 25: Quarterly Networking Meeting $45 FREESePTeMBeR 15: Industry Outlook $45 FREEnOVeMBeR 3: Annual Business Conference Luncheon at Shenandoah $60 $50nOVeMBeR 10: Annual Elections and Quarterly Networking Meeting $45 FREEDeceMBeR 9: Annual Member Holiday Party $45 FREE

TOTAL: $500 $50

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WOnDeR FOODS Fadi Hermiz, Owner 10450 Shoemaker Street Detroit, MI 48213T (313) 923-2675frank48071@yahoo.com Supermarket with quality meat, dairy goods and fresh produce

YOuR PeOPLe LLc Lynne Meredith Schreiber, CCO25444 Southwood DriveSouthfi eld, MI 48075T (248) 376-0406F (248) 443-8794 lynne@yourppl.com www.yourppl.com Community building, marketing and public relations

Renewed Non-Profi t Members cHALDeAn AMeRIcAn LADIeS OF cHARITY LeeAnn Kirma, President 32000 Northwestern Highway, Suite 150Farmington Hills, MI 48334T (248) 538-8300F (248) 538-8320info@calconline.org www.calconline.com Chaldean-American women working together to provide help to those in need

IRAqI DeMOcRATIc unIOn OF AMeRIcA Nabil Roumayah, President T (248) 227-2521info@idu.net www.idu.net Established to enhance the Iraqi community’s status and show solidarity with the Iraqi people’s struggle for freedom, democracy and human rights

JeWISH VOcATIOnAL SeRVIceS DeTROIT Donnell Cravens, MPRI Coordinator/Administrator29699 Southfi eld RoadSouthfi eld, MI 48076T (248) 559-5000 F (248) 559-5001 dcravens@jvsdet.org www.jvs.org Non-profi t organization offering career development and employment services to Metro Detroit

LuTHeRAn SOcIAL SeRVIceS OF MIcHIgAn Rafat Ita, Sponsorship & Resource Coordinator 21700 Northwestern Highway, Suite 1300Southfi eld, MI 48075T (248) 423-2790F (248) 423-3023ita@lssm.org www.lssm.org Communities of service that meet the needs of people, upholding human dignity, advocating equality and justice

Renewed individual MembersLARRY BROWn lb5646@yahoo.com

JALAL J. DALLO jjdallo@dallolaw.com

MARcIA geRSHenSOn gershensonm@oakgov.com

AnDY guTMAn gutman@farbman.com

SAnDRA HAnnA hanna@nsf.org

SAMI HAnnAWA

SHAROn HAnnAWA

zenIA HAnnAWA

Renee JADAn renee.jadan@nordstrom.com

KeVIn JAPPAYA kjappaya@thomasduke.com

REN

EWED

mem

bers

26 CHALDEAN COMMERCE FALL / WINTER 2010

to begin at 7 a.m. and expanding wine and beer tasting functions, but had other problems in the bill, such as allowing restaurants and other food establishments to sell and deliver alcohol at off-premise locations, which could hurt small businesses.

That veto left a hole in the budget as the state was looking for extra money from a special license to sell liquor on Sunday. In early November, a revised bill passed both the House and Senate per the governor’s recommendation, and she signed it into law.

U.S. Senate to Vote on Paycheck Fairness Act Some time during the lame duck session, the U.S. Congress will vote on S3772, also known as the Paycheck Fairness Act, sponsored by Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nevada). The bill would allow workers who feel they been victims of gender-based wage discrimination to sue for unlimited compensatory and punitive damages — ultimately benefi ting trial lawyers. Critics believe such legislation could hamper retailers in deciding new store locations and conditions of the local economy as it relates to setting wage rates. Moreover, the bill would speed up the process in class action lawsuits by requiring employees to “opt-out” of the class, and mandates training and outreach efforts by the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) and the U.S. Department of Labor.

Johnny Oram is a chamber board member.

SIMOn JOnnA sjonna@marcusmillichap.com

JOSePH KASSAB jkassabict@aol.com

JAcOuB MAnSOuR jacoubmansour@yahoo.com

PAuL S. MOnA paulmona10@aol.com

MAnueL nAJJAR

FARIS nALu faris0822@aol.com

DAVID SenAWI dsenawi@hymanlippitt.com

RITA SITTO rsitto@stratacomm.net

cHAnneLLe KIzY-WHITe ckizy@kizylaw.com

LEgisLATiVE UPDATE contiuned from page 10

The Paycheck fairness Act would allow workers who feel they been victims of gender-based wage discrimination to sue for unlimited compensatory and punitive damages

FALL / WINTER 2010 CHALDEAN COMMERCE 2�

The Chaldean

Chamber:

You Can’t Afford

NOT to Join!

Members Also Receive:

2010 MEMBER SAVINGS NON-MEMBER MEMBER

MeMBeRSHIP In THe DeTROIT RegIOnAL cHAMBeR $80 FREEJAnuARY 28: Quarterly Networking Meeting $45 FREEFeBRuARY 25: Industry Outlook: Franchising at Regency Manor $45 FREEMARcH 10: Intelligence Career Night FREE FREEAPRIL 16: Annual Awards Dinner at Shenandoah Members get fi rst notice to buy tickets to this sell-out event

MAY 11: Chaldean Day in Lansing $45 FREEMAY 12: Quarterly Networking Meeting $45 FREEJune 11-13: Annual Chaldean Festival in Southfi eld Members save $100-$200 on booth rentals

June 24: Annual Golf Outing at Shenandoah Members get fi rst notice to buy tickets to this sell-out event

AuguST 25: Quarterly Networking Meeting $45 FREESePTeMBeR 15: Industry Outlook $45 FREEnOVeMBeR 3: Annual Business Conference Luncheon at Shenandoah $60 $50nOVeMBeR 10: Annual Elections and Quarterly Networking Meeting $45 FREEDeceMBeR 9: Annual Member Holiday Party $45 FREE

TOTAL: $500 $50

Membership makes sense.Membership makes sense.Membership

(and lots of dollars, too)(and lots of dollars, too)

exclusive invitations to other area chamber networking events

Business listing in the chamber on-line directory

Business listing in chaldean commerce

quarterly printed newsletters

Monthly e-newsletters

exclusive Member-to-Member discounts on everything from insurance to offi ce supplies

exclusive Member-to-Member * exclusive

invitations Member-to-Member * Business listing in the * * *

TOTAL MEMBER SAVINGS $450

*

Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce29850 northwestern Highway, Suite 250Southfield, MI 48034

PRSRT STDUS POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT NO. 83

FARMINGTON HILLS, MI

Calendar of events

JAnuARY 27Quarterly

Networking Meeting

FeBRuARY 17Industry Outlook

APRIL 1Eighth Annual Awards Dinner

MAY 10 Annual Chaldean

Day in Lansing

SePTeMBeR 14Industry Outlook

OcTOBeR 29Annual Business

Luncheon

nOVeMBeR 9Annual Meeting &

Board Election

DeceMBeR 8Annual

Christmas Party

MAY 12 Quarterly

Networking Meeting

June 10-12Sixth Annual

Chaldean Festival

June 23Eighth Annual

Golf Outing

JuLY 27Quarterly

Networking Meeting