FEBRUARY 2005

$2 

THE 

CHALDEANNEWS 

WWW.CHALDEANNEWS.COM 

VOL. 2 ISSUE I 

METRO DETROIT CHALDEAN COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2005 

The Bridal Issue 

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CONTENTS FEBRUARY 2005 

THE CHALDEAN NEWS VOLUME 2 ISSUE I 

features 

18 CHALDEAN TRADITIONS 

BY CRYSTAL JABIRO 

How some couples plan their Big Fat 

Chaldean Weddings 

20 SELECTING A GOWN 

BY JOYCE WISWELL 

The more you know, the better you’ll look 

22 THE DIGNIFIED DEMEANOR 

BY CHRISTINA GAPPY 

Some dos and don’ts of wedding etiquette 

26 LET THERE BE MUSIC 

BY OMAR BINNO 

Picking the right band for your wedding 

36 IMMIGRATION BIAS? 


Why Chaldeans can’t get asylum in the U.S. 

17 

departments 

8 FROM THE EDITOR 

9 IN OUR VIEW 

9 YOUR LETTERS 

10 NOTEWORTHY 

12 

12 HALHOLE 

32 

28 

14 RELIGION 

15 OBITUARIES 

16 CALC CORNER 

28 ECONOMICS AND ENTERPRISE 

The wedding planner makes it look easy 

BY VANESSA DENHA-GARMO 

30 CHAI TIME 

32 IRAQ TODAY 

34 ONE-ON-ONE 

Michigan Democratic Party’s Mark Brewer 

38 CLASSIFIEDS 

34 

ON THE COVER: 

CAKE DESIGNED BY SWEET DREAMS OF WARREN AND ORCHARD LAKE. 

WEDDING PHOTO BY WILSON SARKIS. 

40 

39 BOUSHALA 

40 EVENT 

Open House at Shenandoah

MIDDLEBELT 

from the EDITOR 

One Year Later 

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Here we are one year 

later. I know time flies; I 

really can’t believe I am 

sitting here writing the Editor’s 

Note for our one-year anniversary 

issue. I am wiping my forward 

and uttering the sound 

“phew!” 

It has been exhausting but 

fun. More so, it has been 

rewarding working so closely 

to our community and learning 

a great deal about the talents 

and expertise of so many people. 

This anniversary is a celebration for 

the entire community, because The 

Chaldean News is a newsmagazine 

designed for all of us. It is your community 

magazine that we hope everyone is 

proud of, because its stories reflect the 

current events in all of our lives. 

Instead of a cover story this issue, 

we dedicate much to weddings. As a 

recent bride, I know that you need 

guidance when planning your big 

soiree. I looked to experts and did my 

research, interviewing dozens of vendors. 

In this issue, wedding planner 

Lawrence Yaldo gives us the dos and 

don’ts of wedding etiquette, while 

Jeana Asmaro talks about Chaldean 

wedding traditions. Longtime wedding 

planner and event coordinator 

Lenne George helps 

couples put the day in 

perspective in our 

Economics and 

Enterprise piece as he 

talks about the business 

he built from referrals. 

Anna Castaldi-Roselli 

of Roma Sposa helps brides 

find the right fit when they pick a 

gown. Finally, writer Omar Binno 

talked to two hot bands in our community 

about the traditional tunes a 

Chaldean wedding just can’t go without. 

For women, our wedding day is 

something we dream about for years. I 

remember wearing my Communion 

dress pretending that my longtime 

friend, Laith Haisha, was my groom. 

We were 7 years old, taking the Holy 

Eucharist for the first time at Holy 

Trinity in San Diego. My dad drove us 

to church that morning. Years later 

Laith and I reminisced about that day 

and he said, “Can you believe your dad 

rented a limousine for us?” I had to 

chuckle and explain it was actually my 

dad’s Cadillac. 

Weddings are romantic and a festive 

time. My wedding day was more 

wonderful than dreams I had as a little 

VANESSA 

DENHA- 

GARMO 

EDITOR 

girl — because as Lenne 

explained, the beauty in the 

wedding comes in every day 

after with the love you share. 

This issue focuses on 

more than just our anniversary 

and weddings; Iraqis all over 

the world are discussing the 

elections and the plight of 

Christians in Iraq. Copy Editor 

Joyce Wiswell investigated 

the hard time Chaldeans have 

receiving asylum in the U.S. 

despite the fear in which they 

live. Is there an immigration bias? That 

is the question we set out to answer. 

We know the issue is controversial, but 

we would be remiss as journalists and 

as a true newsmagazine if we do not 

cover issues at the forefront of our 

Happy 

Birthday 

Chaldean 

News! 

community. We have received phone 

calls at our offices from Christians desperate 

to get their families out of Iraq. 

We decided to pursue the story. 

And we will continue to report, write 

and investigate all kinds of news events. 

Here we are one year later, forging 

ahead with The Chaldean News as the 

source that keeps all of us abreast of 

issues important in our lives. 

Alaha Imid Koullen 

(God Be With Us All) 

Vanessa Denha-Garmo 

vdenha@chaldeannews.com 


in our VIEW 

Keep Iraqi Voting Opportunity in Perspective 

It is true that the facts and circumstances 

surrounding the Iraqi election 

and the right of expatriates 

and their children to vote in it have 

been confusing at best. It is also true 

that the International Organization for 

Migration (IOM), which is in charge 

of the election in places outside of 

Iraq, is disorganized. 

But let us keep in mind the historic 

and monumental undertaking at hand 

— the first ever democratic election 

in a country that has been ruled by a 

fascist dictator, a general and a king 

for most of the last 50 years. In terms 

of experience and knowledge of democratic 

processes and organization, 

this first Iraqi election was like removing 

the teachers and principal from an 

elementary school and telling the students 

to organize and govern themselves. 

Even though there was substantial 

assistance from the U.S. and 

international organizations, this election 

was a work in progress. 

So when we complain about the 

selection of Southgate as the polling 

place, we should keep in mind that 

Iraqis risked their lives to go vote. 

We should keep in mind that thousands 

of insurgents, terrorists and 

thugs were plotting, with some success, 

to disrupt the election however, 

whenever and wherever they could. 

As far as distance goes, some Iraqi 

expatriates on the West Coast traveled 

for hours and stayed overnight 

both to register and then again to 

vote. 

Many Chaldeans thought the easiest 

and most convenient locations for 

voting would have been one or all of 

our churches. But the regulations 

governing this election prohibited any 

Iraqi institutions from being used as 

polling places and apparently this 

applied to our churches. We know 

that the Chaldean community in 

Southeast Michigan is the largest 

concentration of Iraqis outside of Iraq. 

The fact that the groups and organizations 

running the election seemingly 

JEFF STAHLER © REPRINTED BY PERMISSION OF NEWSPAPER ENTERPRISE ASSOCIATION INC. 

did not know this before they got here 

is more our problem than theirs. 

In the end, a short trip to Southgate 

and the opportunity to help rebuild our 

a sign of the times… 

Old Country is more a cause to celebrate 

than to complain. Keeping 

things in perspective, it wasn’t such a 

bad trip. 

your LETTERS 

THE CHALDEAN NEWS 

PUBLISHED BY 

The Chaldean News, LLC 

Tony Antone 

Vanessa Denha-Garmo 

Martin Manna 

Unhappy with Coverage 

Your report about CIAAM in the 

January issue, namely “Shenandoah 

Opens,” is inadequate and misleading. 

You totally neglected any reference 

to the Founding Fathers, those 

real bulwarks and bedrocks who started, 

nourished and developed CIAAM 

from day one to its glorious present. 

The report neglected any reference 

to the comprehensive final membership 

meeting in CIAAM premises on 

November 16, 2004, in which honoring 

plaques were awarded to three 

distinguished members with an 

engravement that reads: “In appreciation 

for your many years of service and 

commitment to CIAAM.” The three 

honorees are: Salman Sesi, Karim 

Sarafa and Joseph Nadhir. 

Martin Manna was personally 

approached and reminded of this event 

by club member Basim Binno right 

after the December issue was printed 

void of the event. Mr. Manna apologized 

and assured Mr. Binno that a full 

report thereof would be printed in the 

January issue. It did not happen. 

It is really amazing and hard to 

understand how a newsworthy 

Chaldean event like this could be 

neglected by the Chaldean News 

while the tiniest personal happenings 

are printed herein. 

Joseph Nadhir 

Sharing the Credit 

Thank you for including the Ethnic 

Bazaar at my high school in your 

January issue. We really appreciate 

the coverage, but I do not feel right 

taking full credit for the choreography 

of our dance. My peer and good 

friend Vanessa Najor played an equal 

role in the choreography as well. 

Ashley Jolagh 

Letters to the editor can be sent via 

email to vdenha@chaldeannews.com 

or to: The Chaldean News, Letters to 

the Editor, 30095 Northwestern Hwy., 

Ste 102, Farmington Hills, MI 48334 

EDITORIAL 

EDITOR IN CHIEF Vanessa Denha-Garmo 

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Joyce Wiswell 

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Omar Binno 

Samira Cholagh 

Christina Gappy 

Crystal Jabiro 

ART & PRODUCTION 

CREATIVE DIRECTOR 

DESIGNER 

PHOTOGRAPHER 

OPERATIONS 

Interlink Media 

SALES 

Interlink Media 

Sandra Jolagh 

Nick Yeldo 

Silvia Zoma 

Alex Lumelsky with SKY Creative 

Zina Bahrou with SKY Creative 

David Reed 

MICHIGAN SUBSCRIPTIONS: $20 PER YEAR 

OUT-OF-STATE SUBSCRIPTIONS: $30 PER YEAR 

THE CHALDEAN NEWS 

30095 NORTHWESTERN HIGHWAY • STE 102 FARMINGTON HILLS, MI 48334 

WWW.CHALDEANNEWS.COM 

PH: 248-932-3100 • FAX: 248-932-9161 


NOTEworthy 

Arthur Ramo 

(left), Adbulahad 

Akrawi and 

Bashir Shallal 

discuss registration 

in Southgate. 

[Local] 

CHALDEAN VOTING LIGHT 

At press time, it appeared that Chaldean-American participation 

in Iraq’s historic elections was light. 

Community members were upset about the choice of 

polling space — Southgate — and said it represented 

a bias against them, since few Chaldeans live in that 

area. However, several community organizations led the 

way to make registering and voting easier by bussing 

groups of Chaldeans to the site. The former HQ store 

is owned by Wayne County. County Executive Robert 

Ficano secured the site within 48 hours of receiving a 

call from the White House asking for help. 

In California, meanwhile, Mar Sarhad Jammo led 

lobbying efforts to have a polling site established in 

San Diego, where the majority of that state’s 

Chaldeans live. But Los Angeles remained the sole 

polling site. The Chaldean community of San Diego 

and Arizona also bussed groups to the polls. 

BANK OF MICHIGAN 

OPENS 

The Bank of Michigan opened its doors 

for business on January 10. The bank is a 

full-service financial services organization 

focused on serving small- to mediumsized 

businesses in local communities. 

The bank has more than 180 investors. 

It is currently seeking deposits and loan 

applications. 

Longtime Michigan banker George 

Mochmar has been named president and 

chief executive officer of the bank. He 

was most recently chief operating officer 

and executive vice president for First 

National Bank of America. 

The Bank of Michigan is located at 

30095 Northwestern Highway, just north 

of Inkster Road, in Farmington Hills. Call 

(248) 865-1300. 

NEW BOOK TRACES 

CHALDEAN HISTORY 

A 400-age book, Chaldeans / Kaldaee: 

Since The Early Beginning of Time / 5300 

BC - Present has been published by 

artist and scholar Amer Hanna Fatuhi. 

FEELING FLUSH 

Even the preschool set knows where to 

get the freshest news on the community. 

Just ask Sam Yono II of Bloomfield Hills. 

The 2-year-old is the son of Sam and 

Christina Yono. 

The book, which is in Arabic, is the result of more than 25 years of research, Fatuhi said. 

He hopes the work will help prove to Iraq’s new government that Chaldeans are native 

Mesopotamians who need to be protected in the Iraqi Constitution, and that their history and 

language needs to be taught in schools. 

The book costs $100 for four copies, plus shipping and handling. Contact Amer Fatuhi, 

P.O. Box 171, Hazel Park, MI 48030; (248) 414-7307. To read an interview with the author in 

Arabic, visit http://www.ankawa.com/cgibin/ikonboard/topic.cgi?forum=48&topic=32151. 

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HER PRICE WAS RIGHT 

After hearing those magic words, “come on 

down!” Sylvia Mammo, a Chaldean woman 

from Michigan, was the top prize winner on the 

Price Is Right TV game show last month. The 

episode is set to air at 11 a.m. on February 4 on 

CBS (check your local listings). 

Mammo attended a taping of the show with her 

family while on a visit to California. As regular 

watchers know, contestants are called from the studio 

audience and don’t know in advance if they’ll 

get to try for prizes. Mammo got the call and, 

though she lost an intermediate challenge, went on 

to win the grand finale, the Showcase Showdown. 

Her prizes, worth $19,690, include a trip to 

Argentina, furniture, carpeting and a grand piano. 

“I was jumping up and down the whole time. 

It’s embarrassing,” said the 21-year-old resident 

of West Bloomfield. “It was the most exciting 

thing, and the fact that my whole family got to go 

up on stage when I won made the experience 

more worthwhile.” 

‘BREAKFAST OF NATIONS’ 

FEATURES CHALDEANS 

Shenandoah Country Club was the site of 

Leadership Oakland’s Breakfast of Nations on 

January 12. The event brought together nine 

leading ethnic organizations to discuss how 

diversity can lead to profitability in business and 

in the community. 

Breakfast of Nations was designed to change 

attitudes about diversity and to encourage interaction 

between ethnic groups. Noted researcher, 

Kurt Metzger, Ph.D., Research Director, Center 

for Urban Studies and Director, Michigan 

Metropolitan Information Center, Wayne State 

University delivered the keynote presentation: 

“Community Health — How to Build Healthy, 

Diverse Communities.” His speech touched on 

the current state of diversity, patterns in the 

region and approaches of other cities. 

Participating groups included: Chaldean 

American Chamber of Commerce, Anti- 

Defamation League, Arab American Chamber of 

Commerce, Council of Asian Pacific Americans, 

Jewish Community Council, Michigan Hispanic 

Chamber of Commerce, Native American 

Business Alliance, NAACP — North and South 

Oakland Chapters and New Detroit. 

YOUTH GROUP HELPS FAMILY 

Chaldean Americans Coming Together 

(C.A.C.T.), a group for Chaldean students at 

Walled Lake Western High School, recently 

held a bake sale to raise money for a needy 

family in the area. 

“We wanted to do something charitable for 

the holidays,” explained member Darin Sitto. 

C.A.C.T. also plans a field trip to Walled 

Lake Middle School to recruit more students. 

The group meets once a month to discuss various 

issues and topics and to plan diverse 

activities. 

Fax any press releases or news items to the 

Editorial Department at 248-932-9161 

FROM THE ARCHIVES 

The Chaldean Iraqi Association of Michigan had 496 active 

members, according to its October 30, 1981 newsletter. 

Membership fees were $2,085 and annual dues were 

$400. 

The issue announces the newly elected board of directors: 

Michael J. George, president; Joseph Nadhir, 1st vice 

president; Najib Karmo, 2nd vice president, Manuel 

Meram, recording secretary; Ralph Ayar, corresponding 

secretary; Badie Bodiya, treasurer; George P. Najor, assistant 

treasurer; and, serving on the reserve board, Salim 

Sarafa, Cal Abbo and Bernie Garmo. 

Do you have an interesting historical story to share for 

From the Archives? Send information to The Chaldean 

News, 30095 Northwestern Highway, Suite 102, 

Farmington Hills, MI 48334. Please be sure to include 

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HALHOLE! 

[Births] 

Sabrina Rose 

It’s a girl for first-time parents Jimmy and Amanda Marrogy. Sabrina Rose was 

born on January 12, 2005 at 10:45 a.m. She weighted 8 lbs, 2 oz and measured 

21 inches long. Sabrina Rose is the fourth grandchild of Hikma and the 

late Hekmat Marrogy and the fifth grandchild for Manuel and Zehour Asmar. 

Bridgette Kelly 

Kelly and Inam Denha are proud to announce the birth of their first daughter, 

Bridgette Kelly. She was born on October 13, 2004 at 9:55 p.m., weighing 

in at 6 lbs, 9 oz and measuring 20 inches long. Bridgette is the 12th grandchild 

of Mrs. Intisar Denha, wife of the beloved Louis E. Denha and the 19th 

of Mrs. Jamila Samona, wife of the beloved Gorguis P. Samona. 

Sabrina Rose 

Bridgette Kelly 

Brandon Thomas 

Thomas and Connie Kenaya are proud to announce the birth of their son, 

Brandon Thomas. He was born on September 3, 2004 at 4:51 p.m. weighing 

8 lbs, 7 oz. Brandon is the first grandchild to Sabah & the late Salima 

Kenaya and Na’il & Dot Basmaji. 

Jacob Francis 

Sam Jr. and Christina Yono are happy to announce the birth of Jacob 

Francis. Jake was born on September 20, 2004 at 8:36 a.m. He weighed 

7 lbs, 7 oz and was 21 inches long. Older brother Sam II loves him very 

much. Proud grandparents are Sam and Lillian Yono and Walid and Niran 

Habboo. 

Brandon Thomas 

Jacob Francis 


Editor’s note: In honor of our wedding issue, we asked contributors 

to this month’s engagements and weddings in Halhole to share the 

story of their romance. 

[Engagement] 

Thane and Heather 

Thane Namy, son of Harry Namy & the late Najat Namy, proposed to 

Heather Marshall, daughter of John & Janice Marshall, on December 18. 

The two plan to be married at St. Rene’s Catholic Church in Sterling 

Heights with a reception following at Shenandoah Country Club in 

September. The couple were friends for more than five years before they 

began dating a year and a half ago. 

“Although I was concerned about jeopardizing our friendship, we took a 

chance anyway and now we are happy and in love,” said Heather. “He proposed 

to me in Rochester Park, on a beautiful winter evening with 

snowflakes gently falling around us.” 

[Wedding] 

Christopher and Janice 

Christopher Shamoun, son of Salah & Kheloud Shamoun, waited at the alter 

to marry Janice Najor, daughter of Nadia Najor & the late George, and niece 

of Ameer Najor on November 7, 2004. The ceremony took place at St. 

Thomas Chaldean Catholic Church. The celebration was held at Penna’s of 

Sterling. “My husband and I met through a mutual friend. I knew he was the 

one the moment I met him,” said Janice. “After dating for a while he surprised 

me with a marriage proposal on a hot-air balloon. A year and a half after that 

we became husband and wife.” 

Thane and Heather 

SHARE YOUR 

JOY 

WITH 

THE 

COMMUNITY! 

Please email or mail announcements 

with a photo to the Chaldean News at: 

vdenha@chaldeannews.com 

Chaldean News; c/o Editor 

Subject: Announcements 

30095 NW Hwy, Ste 102 


(hard copy of photos can be 

picked up after the first of the month) 

Christopher and Janice 

BLOOMFIELD 

DEVELOPMENT, INC. 

Engineering, 

Developing, 

Building & 

Construction 

Management 

CONTACT: 

FRANK ASMAR 

OR 

IMAD SITTO 

(248) 557-5454 


RELIGION 

CRANBROOK FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. 

P l a n n i n g f o r y o u r F i n a n c i a l N e e d s 

Sebastian P. Minaudo, CLU 

Innovative Solutions to reach your Financial Goals: 

•Personal Planning 

•Education Planning 

•Estate Planning 

Renee A. Denha, CFP 

•Group Health Insurance 

•Business Planning 

•Retirement Solutions 

Cranbrook Financial Group, Inc 

901 Wilshire Drive • Ste 320 

Troy, MI 48084 

(248) 362-4640 Phone • (248) 362-2140 Fax 

Cranbrook Financial Group, Inc. is independently owned and operated and is not a subsidiary or other corporate affiliate of 

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company. Milwaukee. WI (NM) and its subsidiaries or affiliates, Sebastian P. 

Minuado. Agent , NM (life insurance, annuities, and disability income insurance). Securities are offered through Northwestern 

Mutual Investment Services. LLC. 901. Wilshire Drive, Suite 300, Troy, MI 48084 (248-362-2220), which is wholly owned by 

NM and a member of the NASD and SIPC. NM and Cranbrook Financial Group, Inc. and are not broker-dealers. Cranbrook 

Financial Group Inc. or its members may represent insurance and financial companies other than NM or its affiliates. 

YOUR FORD 

A, Z & X PLAN 

HEADQUARTERS 

586-939-6000 

Ext. 3137 

36200 VAN DYKE 

Between 15 Mile & Metro Parkway 

www.crestlincmerc.com 

SHOWROOM HOURS: 

TUES, WED. & FRI: 8am - 6pm 

MON & THURS: 8am - 9pm 

PLACES OF PRAYER 

CHALDEAN CHURCHES IN AND AROUND METRO DETROIT 

THE DIOCESE OF ST. THOMAS THE APOSTLE IN THE UNITED STATES 

ST. THOMAS CHALDEAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE 

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: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10 a.m. in Sourath 

(Aramaic) and Arabic, Tuesday 5:50 p.m. in Sourath and Arabic, Saturday 5:30 

p.m. in English, Sunday 8:30 a.m. in Arabic and Sourath, 10 a.m. in English, 

12 p.m. in Sourath 

SACRED HEART CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 

310 W. Seven Mile Road, Detroit, MI 48203, 313-368-6214 

PASTOR: Rev. Jacob Yasso 

MASS SCHEDULE: Monday - Saturday 5 p.m. in Sourath, Sunday 8:30 a.m. in Arabic 

and Sourath, 10 a.m. in English, 12 p.m. in Sourath 

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: Monday - Friday 10 a.m in Sourath, Sunday 10 a.m. in Sourath 

and Arabic, 12:30 p.m. in Sourath 

ST. JOSEPH CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 

2442 E. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, MI 48083, 248-528-3676 

PASTOR: Rev. Emanuel Shaleta 

PAROCHIAL VICAR: Rev. Jirjis Abrahim 

MASS SCHEDULE: Monday - Friday 10 a.m in Sourath, Saturday 5 p.m. in Soureth, 

Sunday 8 a.m. in Soureth,10 a.m. in English, 12 p.m. Soureth, 2 p.m. in Soureth 

and Arabic 

ST. THOMAS CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH (NOTE SCHEDULE CHANGE) 

6900 Maple Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48322, 248-788-2460 

PASTOR: Rev. Frank Kalabat 

Rev. Emanuel Rayes (retired) 

MASS SCHEDULE: Monday - Friday 10 a.m. in Sourath, Saturday 5 p.m. in English, 

Sunday 9 a.m. in Arabic/Sourath, 10:30 a.m. in English, 12:30 p.m. in English 

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 

FEBRUARY CALENDAR 

KEY OBSERVATION DATES 

S M T W T F S 

1 2 3 4 5 

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 

INTERESTED IN A NEW OR 

USED CAR? JUST ASK FOR 

NADIA TOMA 

AND TREAT YOURSELF TO 

A SPECIAL OFFER OF AN 

OIL AND FILTER CHANGE. 

$ 

14 

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OIL AND 

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Up to five quarts of Motorcraft 

oil. Taxes, disposal fee and 

diesel, vehicles extra, if applicable. 

See Service Advisor for 

details. Offer valid with 

coupon. Expires 3/15/05 

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 

20 21 22 23 24 25 26 

27 28 

4 MEMORIAL OF THE FAITHFUL DECEASED 

6 MEMORIAL OF SHIMOUN SAWA 

(Presentation of Christ to the Temple) 

7 FIRST DAY OF THE GREAT FAST (LENT) 

Abstinence from meat on this day 

and all Fridays of Lent 


obituaries 

Alvin Sabah Shina 

Alvin Sabah Shina was born on October 11, 1988, the first child of 

his proud parents, Sabah and Nancy. He was very close with his 

family and relatives, and he loved to spend time and travel with 

them. In his middle school years, he was an award-winning soccer 

and hockey player. Alvin was a sophomore at West Bloomfield 

High School and was very skilled in computers. His future hopes 

included becoming a successful lawyer, marrying and having a large family. He 

unconditionally loved and cared for Shyne, his pit bull. One of his happiest 

moments was the baptism of his baby twin brother and sister. Alvin died suddenly 

the next day, January 7, 2005. He was only 16 years old. 

Alvin also spent countless hours with many friends from his school. Teachers and 

students alike mourned his death. The school designed a memory board and wrote 

messages to him. They also had a “Remembering Alvin” gathering where they 

shared stories and feelings about their beloved classmate. He was a very thoughtful, 

caring and giving person who would do anything to help someone in need. 

Alvin’s grandfather, Habib Shina, and his uncle, Zuhair Shina, preceded him in death. 

He is survived by his parents Sabah and Nancy; sisters Lavon, Alexia and Leanza; brother 

Christian; grandmother Jamila Shina and her children and their families — Zuhaira 

Shina, Hanna Shina, Izzat Shina, Sahira Tella, Suhama Seman and Thia Shina; grandfather 

and grandmother Salim and Samira Mansour (Kachkuocha) and their children and 

families — Jaklin Shina, Ziad Kachkuocha, Nermin Kachkuocha and Dalia Kachkuocha. 

The students at his school call him “an angel in disguise,” sent to silently protect 

the souls of those who remember him. The name Alvin means “loved by all,” and 

he truly was. The family would like to thank those who offered their condolences 

and support. May he rest in peace. 

Narmi Habbo Sitto 

Narmi Habbo Sitto was born December 1, 1907 in Telkaif, Iraq, and 

passed away on January 2, 2005 in Scottsdale, Arizona. She was 

known as “Nana” by her children, Marie, Margo, Najah, Sabah, 

Amir, Mouwaffak and Munther, and by her 18 grandchildren and 16 

great grandchildren. She kept her family together and close by her 

overwhelming love. Her heart and home were always open to all. 

Nana lived a good life and shared it with others. 

She is met in heaven by her husband, Namu, and oldest son, George. She was also 

predeceased by her two brothers, Yousif and Yagoub Habbo, and beloved sister Najiba 

Salmu. We remember all the happy times and Nana’s memory will live in our hearts. 

Gorguis Patrous Samona 

Gorguis Patrous Samona left us on December 3 2004, only 76 

years old. He is survived by his loving wife, Jamila Samona, and nine 

children: Imad (wife Kifah), Khairi (wife Taghrid), Thair (wife Shiela), 

Bashar (wife Ibtisam), Mazin, Peter, John, Inam (husband Kelly 

Denha), and Luke (wife Dawn). He was the grandfather of 19 and 

counting. His only daughter, Inam, was thrilled that her father had a 

chance to see her firstborn Bridgette only two months old. 

Gorguis was married in 1950 and worked hard to bring his family to America in 

1973. Seeing his family walk through the door put the biggest smile on his face. 

He grew the best watermelons in his garden and could not wait for his grandkids 

to come help him pick them. It would light up his face when his grandkids asked 

him to play cards since he was the best Kon-Kan player around. He did not know 

much English but he sure enjoyed watching “General Hospital.” 

His family would like to thank all those who share their sorrow. His memory will 

go on forever. We love you. 

Natiq Zora 

Natiq Zora passed away on January 11, 2005 at the age of 63. He 

was born in Telkeppe to the late Yosif and Victoria Zora. He immigrated 

to the United States in 1977, where he established a home 

and business with his wife, Florenca. Together they have five children: 

Bassam and his wife Nora, Alia and her husband Zahir 

Bahoora, and Ziyad, Andrea and Layth. 

Natiq’s seven grandchildren were the joy of his life and most of 

his time was spent loving and laughing with them. He was a father 

very proud of his children, always encouraging the best for them. 

Two brothers predeceased him, Akrem and Mekha. Surviving brothers are Zohair 

and Mohson in the United States and sisters Thriya, Bernadit and Wifia in Iraq. 

The family thanks all who shared in their sorrow and offered prayers. To them, 

Natiq is at peace with the Lord and forever in their hearts. 

CALL TO 

SUBSCRIBE! 

248-932-3100 


CALC corner 

NOTE from the 

PRESIDENT 

The Chaldean American 

Ladies of Charity designates 

year 2005 as “Friendship with 

Our Seniors.” During the year 

we will provide dedicated service 

and commitment to enhancing 

the quality of life of our Clair Konja 

senior citizens. Our organization’s 

mission includes developing and providing 

a multitude of services that will enable senior 

citizens to enjoy the highest quality of life. 

We also have many youth and social programs 

coming up throughout the year. We hope that 

you can be a part of this mission by volunteering 

your time at some of the many programs and 

services we have planned this year. If you wish 

to help with some of the programs or events, 

please complete the form on this page and return 

to the CALC office or you can call the CALC 

office at (248) 352-5018. Check the monthly 

CALC Corner in the Chaldean News for more 

detailed information about upcoming events. 

Chaldean American Ladies of Charity 

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION 

Membership to the CALC is $25.00 per year. If you 

would like to be a member of the Chaldean American 

Ladies of Charity, please complete the application 

below and return the application with your $25.00 

check payable to CALC in the enclosed envelope. 

Name: ____________________________________________________________ 

Address: ________________________________________________________ 

City: ____________________________ State:______ Zip ____________ 

Day Ph:______________________ Eve Ph: ________________________ 

E-Mail: ____________________________________________________________ 

I am interested in volunteering for the following activities: 

Seniors (Please specify the activities): 

____________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________ 

Nursing Home (Please specify the activities): 

____________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________ 

Social Events (Please specify the activities): 

____________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________ 

Family Programs (Please specify the activities): 

____________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________ 

21711 W. TEN MILE RD., STE. 238 

SOUTHFIELD, MICHIGAN 48075-1015 

TEL (248) 352-5018 FAX (248) 352-2455 

WWW.CALCONLINE.COM 

16 CHALDEAN NEWS FEBRUARY 2005 

CHALDEAN AMERICAN LADIES OF CHARITY 

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2005 

JANUARY 

SENIORS BINGO 

January 10 at 1:00 p.m. 

Chaldean Manor 

STRENGTHENING CHALDEAN 

FAMILIES PROGRAM 

Mondays - Weekly 6-8 p.m. 

Oak Park 

FEBRUARY 

SENIORS BINGO 

February 7 at 1:00 p.m. 




Mondays - Weekly 6-8 p.m. 

Oak Park 

ST. ANTHONY NURSING HOME 

MOVIE NIGHT & REFRESHMENTS 


Warren, MI 

RHYTHMS OF THE HEART 

HEALTH WORKSHOP 

DR. WASSIM NONA, CARDIOLOGIST 

February 14 at 7 p.m. 


TEACHING EVERYDAY ENGLISH 

(HELPFUL WORDS FOR SENIORS) 

February 15 at Noon 


PREVENTING FALLS 

EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOP 

SUHA DAYIMIYA, 

GUARDIAN ANGEL HOME CARE 



MARCH 

SENIORS BINGO 

March 7 at 1:00 p.m. 



FAMILES PROGRAM 

Mondays & Wednesdays at 6-8 p.m. 

Southfield & West Bloomfield 

ROSARY MAKING (ARTS & CRAFTS) 

(SAMIR SALLAN) 

March 12 at 11:00 p.m. 


FATHER SOLANUS 

CASEY CENTER TOUR 


Detroit, MI 


EASTER DINNER 


Warren, MI 

EASTER DINNER AND SENIORS 

DRAMA CLUB 





March 28 at Noon 


APRIL 

SENIORS BINGO 

April 4 at 1:00 p.m. 




Mondays and Wednesday 

at 6-8p.m. weekly 


STROKE - PREVENTION IS 

THE BEST TREATMENT 


(Dr. Marisa Abbo) 



MOVIE NIGHT & REFRESHMENTS 


Warren, MI 



April 19 at Noon 


CREATIVE FLORAL DESIGN 

(ARTS & CRAFTS) 

(LAWRENCE YALDO) 



MAY 



Mondays and Wednesday 

6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 


SENIORS BINGO 

May 2 at noon 


44TH ANNUAL MEETING & MASS 

May 5 at Noon 

Mother of God Church & 

Shenandoah Country Club 

SENIORS MOTHER DAY 

CELEBRATION 

AND MOTHER-DAUGHTER 

LUNCHEON 

May 9 at 1:00 p.m. 


CLOTHING DRIVE FOR THE NEEDY 

May 11, 12, 13 

Oak Park, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

HEALTH INSURANCE NEEDS & 

INFORMATION FOR THE ELDERLY 

(EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOP) 

May 16 at 1:00 p.m. 


ALL EYES ON YOU - 

HEALTHY VISION 

May 23 at 1:00 p.m. 

Dr. Rovetta Qashat, Optometrist 


JUNE 

SENIORS BINGO 

June 6 at 1:00 p.m. 




Mondays - Weekly 

6-8p.m. - St. Joseph Church-Troy 



June 14 at Noon 


SENIORS FATHER’S DAY 

CELEBRATION 

FATHER–SON LUNCHEON 

June 20 at 6:30 p.m. 


SENIORS SPRING PLANTING 

June 25 at 9:00 a.m. 


ESTATE PLANNING & WILLS 

EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOP 

(RANDALL DENHA, ESQ.) 

June 27 at 1:00 p.m. 


PROJECT CAN START 

Summer 2005, Detroit 

JULY 



July 5 at Noon 


ADVERTORIAL 

SENIORS PICNIC AND BBQ 

July 9 at noon 

Chaldean Manor Gardens 

SENIORS BINGO 

July 11 at 1:00 p.m. 





6-8p.m. - St. Joseph Church Troy 

EATING HEALTHY- 

HEALTH WORKSHOP 

(PAM THOMAS HADDAD, 

NUTRITIONIST) 

July 26 at 1:00 p.m., Chaldean Manor 

AUGUST 

SENIORS BINGO 

August 1 at 1:00 p.m. 






AGING & CARE GIVING 

(DR. NEERAN BAJOUKA) 





August 16 at Noon 


ARAB & CHALDEAN NIGHT 

WITH DETROIT TIGERS 


Comerica Park 

LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE 

(COMEDY MOVIE NIGHT) 

August 30 at 7:00p.m. 


SEPTEMBER 







September 6 at noon 


FIRE PREVENTION TIPS 

(EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOP) 

(INSPECTOR ALBO - CITY OF 

SOUTHFIELD FIRE DEPARTMENT) 



SENIORS BINGO 



CONTROLLING YOUR BLOOD 

SUGAR: A BALANCING ACT 

(FLORA J. DALLO, MPH, PHD 

KELLOGG SCHOLAR IN 

HEALTH DISPARITIES) 

September 20 at Noon 


TAKING A WALK DOWN 

MEMORY LANE 

(BERNADETTE NAJOR, PHD) 

September 28 at 7 p.m. 


OCTOBER 

SENIORS BINGO 

October 3 at noon, Chaldean Manor 

CLOTHING DRIVE FOR THE NEEDY 

October 5,6,7 

9am to 3 p.m. - Detroit 



October 11 at noon, Chaldean Manor 

THE FILE OF LIFE: CREATING A 

MINI MEDICAL HISTORY CARD 

FOR YOU AND EMERGENCY 

PERSONNEL 

October 17 at 7 p.m. 


ROLLING BLACKOUT AND 

EMERGENCIES 

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS 

(SPEAKER: TBD) 

October 24 at 1:00 p.m. 


CHILDRENS HALLOWEEN BINGO 

October 28 at 6:00 p.m. 

St. Thomas Church Hall 

COAT DRIVE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES 

October through December 2005 

NOVEMBER 

HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE 

EXTRAVAGANZA 

November 3 at 6 p.m. 

Shenandoah Country Club 

SENIORS BINGO 

November 7 at 1:00 p.m. 




November 15, 2005 at Noon 


SENIORS THANKSGIVING DINNER 

November 17, 2005 at 6 p.m. 


THANKSGIVING DINNER AT 


November 19 at 4:00 p.m. 

Warren, MI 

RESEARCHING OUR ANCESTORS 

& DESIGNING A FAMILY TREE 

November 21 & 28, 2005 

at 1:00 p.m. at Chaldean Manor 

HOLIDAY LIGHTS & THE FESTIVAL 

OF TREES AND LUNCHEON 

November 2005 

Dearborn, MI 

DECEMBER 

SENIORS BINGO 

December 5 at 1:00 p.m. 


ADVENT BY CANDLELIGHT 


Shenandoah 

WREATH MAKING FOR SENIORS 

(ARTS & CRAFTS) 



SENIORS CHRISTMAS DINNER 

December 13 at 6 p.m. 



CHRISTMAS DINNER AND 

GIVING TREE 


Warren, MI 

Reservations and 

Ticket Purchase may 

be required for certain 

social events. For further 

information regarding 

events call CALC 

office 248-352-5018


2005 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

BY WILSON SARKIS 



Chaldean weddings usually involve the entire extended 

family. Grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins all 

participate in some way with the wedding process, 

much like the celebrated antics of Nia Vardalos’s “My Big Fat 

Greek Wedding.” 

The traditional Chaldean marriage is some type of arrangement. 

This was more commonplace years ago — a bachelor’s mother 

phones a potential bride’s family and asks to meet her for tea and 

small talk. If the budding groom would like to see her again, his 

parents call her parents and ask for their permission to meet. 

The groom and bride-to-be continue to meet at her house only 

and must be accompanied by a group if they go out in public 

because they are just courting and not yet engaged. 

Arranged marriages still exist today but have changed a bit. 

Potential grooms and their families ask to see a prospective bride 

outside of the house. The two most common places to meet a 

woman are at church and work (if she works in a public place, like 

the mall). If the man would like to meet her, he has his parents 

call her parents and they arrange to meet. They continue to meet 

at the girl’s house and refrain from going out in public unless they 

are in a group or escorted by a family member. 

If all goes well in both cases, the families hold a tenatha, “the 

word.” This includes the extended family at the bride’s home. The 

groom’s father asks the bride’s father for his daughter’s hand in marriage, 

offering the traditional saying, “We would like to plant a 

flower from your garden into ours.” Sometimes, the bride’s mother 

will begin to serve tea and the groom’s family will refuse until they 

“give away” their daughter. 

When the bride’s family accepts, the groom’s family gives her 

jewelry and their extended families get acquainted. The couple still 

avoids going out alone in public until the engagement, which 

chaldean 

How some couples plan their 

makes their union formal. The engagement is important to families 

because church officials perform prayers and a blessing of the rings. 

After the engagement, it becomes acceptable for the whole community 

to know that the couple are an item. 

Many Chaldean young couples are on the dating scene. Even 

those who marry non-Chaldeans incorporate tradition in their 

weddings. Undoubtedly, there are families that do not hold tightly 

to these customs. Some families find dating 

Above: Chaldean women 

shake their hips during the Zeffa. 

Opposite page: Chaldean 

men do the khugga. 

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traditions 

Big Fat Chaldean Weddings 

BY CRYSTAL JABIRO 

acceptable and allow their sons and daughters to freely socialize. 

But according to Jeana Asmaro, a wedding coordinator with A 

Night to Remember, the single most important thing that a family 

looks at before accepting their son’s or daughter’s companion is his 

or her family’s reputation. 

“Reputations consist of the guy’s or girl’s own, and their parents 

and siblings — and at times, their aunts and uncles,” noted 

Asmaro. Some families refuse a potential marrying mate because of 

old grudges or past incidences. “It’s a shame that to this day I’ve 

seen families not accept a bride or groom because of a family 

member’s name.” This is why families discourage couples from 

going out in public until the church makes it official. 

Asmaro, who works about 40 hours a week as a Command 

Center Leader for the OnStar Division at General Motors, has 

spent three years making weddings stress-free for happy couples. 

Weddings have become her life. Her husband, Abeer, plays percussion 

and sings for the Shams Band with his brother Ameed. She 

also has a 20-month-old, Angelina Nidhal. But she has always 

enjoyed weddings, and she especially likes themed events. 

“You can get so creative,” said Asmaro. “We can do Chaldean 

customs with a theme. They make the wedding so unique.” 

Asmaro has planned many weddings for Americans, 

Palestinians, Italians and Armenians, but Chaldeans are the 

majority of her clients. They are also the ones with the most 

distinctive traditions. 

One such tradition that is hardly done anymore is the fyaka, 

or “offering.” The fyaka kicked off the weeklong wedding celebration 

in Iraq. The groom’s family would come to the bride’s 

home and offer money, property or belongings to her family, 

like a dowry. “I love seeing old Chaldean customs like this,” said 

Asmaro. Nowadays, families do the fyaka for fun and offer a 

small amount of money, a bottle of wine or even a live chicken. 

“Many people might say they don’t want a typical Chaldean 

wedding, but they don’t realize that Chaldean customs make the 

wedding different,” Asmaro said. 

Whether a couple has seen each other three times or dated for 

three years, one thing is for sure: Their decision to marry is not 

really theirs, and there is no escaping traditional music, ethnic 

food, the large guest list and Middle Eastern dances. Theirs will 

be the Big Fat Chaldean Wedding. 

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selecting a gown 

The more you know, the better you’ll look 

It’s never too early to start thinking about one of the most 

important aspects of your wedding day: the bridal gown. 

It’s best to work seven to eight months in advance, 

which leaves plenty of time for production (usually six months) 

and alterations. A dress can be delivered in as little as three 

months, but expect to pay 10-15 percent more in rush charges, 

said Anna Castaldi-Roselli, who owns Roma Sposa bridal salon in 

Birmingham. 

“The world of wedding gowns has a language all its own,” she 

pointed out. “The more you understand, the easier it is to find 

your dream dress.” 

When selecting a shop for your wedding dress, keep your eye 

on the big picture, Castaldi-Roselli advises. The person who 

helps you should act more as a consultant than a salesperson, 

wanting to hear all about your wedding and its theme, not just 

what you want to wear. And what your mother and bridesmaids 

wear is as important as your own dress. 

“If it’s not coordinated well, you can really make a big mistake,” 

Castaldi-Roselli said. “Say the mother wears a cheap polyester 

dress. When she’s standing next to you, it will not show off 

your dress as it should be.” 

When it comes to gowns, what’s hot these days are halter tops, 

strapless gowns and the portrait look, in which the gown wraps 

around the tips of your shoulders to frame your face. For a more 

modest look during the church ceremony, Castaldi-Roselli suggests 

a bolero jacket or a shoulder wrap that buttons onto the 

gown. Either can be removed for the reception. 

Hairpins or sticks are very much in style. They are usually jeweled 

and work especially well with updos. Tiaras also continue to 

be popular. When selecting one, keep in mind the shape of your 

face; if it’s long, go for a rounded top, and if it’s short, choose one 

with a point. 


Some tiaras are made with pearls and precious stones that can 

be removed after the wedding and made into earrings or a 

bracelet. Or, Castaldi-Roselli jokes, “wear it while you’re cooking 

to remind him of who is the queen.” 

Also popular are mantillas, either worn on its own or under a 

tiara. Lace is back in a big way, Castaldi-Roselli said. 

“Vintage French lace is very much in style. It’s classic and 

timeless,” she said. 

Not thrilled with your figure? The right gown will accentuate 

the positive and minimize the negative. For instance, an asymmetrical 

waistline will smooth a thick waist, while a corset bodice 

gives a V-shaped look. 

Castaldi-Roselli said brides should expect to pay at least 

$2,300 for a fine gown. Dresses in the neighborhood of $8,000 are 

not uncommon if they are designer couture and one of a kind. 

A good mantilla may cost as much as $3,000 to $4,000, but 

Castaldi-Roselli said to look at the big picture. 

“Your daughter will wear it one day,” she said. “You are making 

an investment.” 

KNOW YOUR STYLES 

BALLGOWN: A very full skirt with either a natural or 

dropped waist 

MERMAID: Hugs the bodice with a skirt that flares dramatically 

just below the knee 

SHEATH: Usually fitted in a straight, long line 

PRINCESS: Also called Redingote, usually fitted with vertical 

panels extending into an A-line 

EMPIRE: A high waist that starts right under the bust and 

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the dignified demeanor 

Finally, it’s the big wedding day, 

All people attending will look your way. 

Each detail and occurrence, the people there will rave, 

Do you know how to behave? 

Both planning and attending a wedding 

can be tough. Here are some helpful 

hints on common wedding etiquette to 

help ease the tension on the big day. 

One of the first choices for the bride and groom 

to consider is whether to hire a wedding planner. 

Lawrence Yaldo, a full-service event planner and 

owner of Elegante Production and Amazing Events florist 

shop in Troy, believes doing so is essential. The wedding planning 

staff, he said, become the couple’s “eyes and ears of the big day.” 

Some dos and don’ts of wedding etiquette 

BY CHRISTINA GAPPY 

They can also help smooth over breaches of etiquette. 

Many couples choose to have a wedding without children 

attending. The proper way to request no children, Yaldo said, is to 

declare an “adult reception” in the invitation. Couples may 

also politely inform the guests to limit the number of 

people brought along to the wedding by not including 

“...and family” when addressing the envelopes. As a 

guest, remember that only those specifically named 

on the envelope are actually invited. 

Response cards are sent along with the invitations 

so the couple can get an accurate count of 

guests. Whether you plan on coming or not, you must 

always respond. If people do not, Yaldo said the proper 

way to handle the situation is for the wedding planning staff 

DIGNIFIED DEMEANOR continued on page 24 


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Continued from page 22 

to call them directly to find out who 

will attend. 

If guests have already responded 

yes and then discover they cannot 

attend, Yaldo said they should call 

the couple themselves and explain. 

The polite thing is also to send a gift, 

usually money, along with a family 

member to congratulate the couple. 

It is also very common for guests to 

have more than one wedding on the 

same night. The proper way to handle 

the situation is for the guests to arrive 

at the first wedding early and stay 

until right before dinner, Yaldo said. 

Then arrive at the second wedding 

just in time for dinner. Often, the 

bride and groom will not even notice 

who is coming and who is going. 

Assigned seating is one of the 

most strategic and difficult tasks. The 

immediate family is usually placed in 

front of the head table and aunts and 

uncles around the dance floor. 

The most common issue at a wedding, 

Yaldo said, is when guests 

switch seats. This is in poor taste! If 

you really feel you must change your 

seat, ask the wedding planner. 

“We will accommodate them as 

best as possible and try to not be so 

noticeable of transferring guests to a 

different table,” Yaldo said. 

The couples may also find it difficult 

to choose the bridesmaids and 

groomsmen because of the extensive 

number of family members. If a couple 

feels that they have excluded someone 

from participating in the wedding, 

there are other activities people 

can be involved in, such as reciting a 

reading at the church, being an usher, 

being a greeter at the reception, or 

being an announcer for the Zeffa. 

What about the centerpiece? Is it 

okay to take it home? 

“Absolutely, a lot of hard work and 

time went into making each centerpiece, 

so I do urge the guests to take 

them home and enjoy them,” said 

Yaldo. However, keep in mind that the 

stands on some centerpieces are rental 

items, so should not be taken. Usually 

the first guest seated at the table gets to 

take the centerpiece home. Another 

option is for everyone at the table to 

share it by picking out enough flowers 

to fill a vase at home. 


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. 



let there be music 

ideos and pictures capture the wedding ceremony, but it is 

the music that sets the scene during the reception. 

Traditional dances are kept alive and many of the most popular 

songs, both old and new, are preformed by local bands. 

From new songs like “Eed wa Hoob” and “Mabrook oo Elif 

Mabrook” — sung during the Zeffa — to older songs like “Hel 

Laila Zefaina il Hilou” and “Ahya Wa Moot Al Basra” — sung 

as a way to reminisce — wedding halls resonate with the familiar 

sounds and styles of Chaldean and Arabic music. 

All the bands may perform the same songs, but each puts on 

a different show. It has become a popular wedding custom in 

recent years to hire the band that interacts the most with the 

crowd. It is not enough to be up-to-date on the latest songs or 

have the singer with the best voice. It is the singer who gets off 

stage, dances and sings among the crowd and calls the families’ 

Choosing a wedding band 

BY OMAR BINNO 

names throughout the night who is the most sought after. 

Ameed Asmaro, the singer for Al-Shams, one of the hottest 

bands in the market, said that interaction with the crowd is definitely 

the main attraction of any party. 

“This is a wedding, not a concert,” Asmaro said. “So you 

don’t have to worry so much about being the ‘best’ singer as 

much as you’re concerned with giving your audience a good 

time. People want you to mingle with them, have fun with them 

and make them feel like their wedding is special. When I go out 

there, I’m there to entertain, and to make sure that the people 

I’m entertaining are happy and are enjoying themselves.” 

Picking the band also has to do with which one is the most 

popular at the time. A common characteristic within the 

Chaldean community is the competitive streak that seems to 

run in the blood of its people. Newlyweds want a wedding that 

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will make an impression, so they want the “best” or “most popular” 

band to help make their wedding memorable. 

Majid Kakka, founder, singer and keyboardist for the internationally 

recognized Bells Band, said musicians recognized for 

their performing capabilities are what people want at their weddings. 

He wrote the song “Tair A-Saad” more than 10 years ago, 

and people still love to hear it for the Zeffa. Some other local 

bands perform it as well. 

“It’s all about quality,” Kakka said. “You 

know that people are willing to pay for you 

because of the effort and quality you put into 

your music, and into giving the people what 

they want.” 

appeals to 

The successful wedding band also remembers 

that it has two distinct audiences to 

appeal to: the younger generation and the old and old. 

timers. Therefore, a wide selection of music 

that appeals to both is performed. Young folks are often attracted 

to the sounds of the latest hip-hop and pop styles used in 

Chaldean and Arabic music, so the band that integrates these 

effectively is likely to become the most appreciated. This new 

style of westernizing Middle Eastern music is drawing the 

younger Chaldeans back to their music. 

It is the band that puts the best all-around performance, and that 

makes the couple and their families feel special, that causes the 

newlyweds to go home feeling like their wedding was “live.” 

The successful 

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ECONOMICS and ENTERPRISE 

The wedding planner makes it look easy 

BY VANESSA DENHA-GARMO 

He fell into the business by combining 

his sense of style and his 

compassion for others. Leonard 

George, known to friends and family as 

Lenne, has a hard time saying no. 

He is the founder of Lenne George 

Event Planning and he has been creating 

memorable moments for the past 

11 years as a wedding planner and 

event coordinator. 

It all started when his father, 

Michael George, asked him to help run 

the Compri Hotel in Los Angeles. Lenne 

spent a year and half working at various 

levels of the business, including director 

of sales, short-order cook, housekeeping 

and front desk — and always going 

far beyond the call of duty. 

The Host with the Most 

Sitting in his Bloomfield Hills home, his 

hospitality is the prominent presence in 

the room as he offers pomegranate 

juice, making fresh watermelon drinks 

one day, ordering salad and serving tea 

on another as he reminisces about his 

days in the hotel business. The 40- 

year-old, who resembles a cover model 

who may have graced the pages of 

GQ magazine, welcomes a guest into 

his home as if hosting a party, always 

cordial and energetic. 

After spending a year and a half on 

the West Coast, Lenne moved back 

home to manage the Compri in 

Southfield — and found himself doing 

exactly the same things as in L.A. — 

anything guests asked. “If someone 

asked me for strawberries or fine chocolates, 

I ran out and bought them,” said 

Lenne. “If they wanted their shirts 

pressed, I did it.” 

The requests expanded beyond a 

run to the grocery store or an hour in 

the laundry. The demands of the job 

took a toll and Lenne found himself 

working almost around the clock. He 

was asked to help decorate the banquet 

hall for various events by creating 

floral arrangements and food tables, 

which today is his specialty. He would 

also find other vendors or another 

venue if necessary. It wasn’t part of 

Lenne’s job description, but the former 

fashion expert couldn’t say no. The 

requests evolved and Lenne started to 

build a client list. His first Chaldean 

bridal shower was for Kim Atchoo and 

his first wedding was for Natalie 

Sheena — both close friends of Lenne. 

However, Lenne’s first passion was 

in clothing and he set out for a career 

in fashion. Even wearing a simple pair 

of jeans and white pullover, Lenne 

exudes style. 

He spent the majority of his younger 

years studying the fashion industry in 

the U.S. and Japan. He started working 

in the business at age 11 as a stock 

boy for Enroute in the Oakland Mall. 

Next, he moved onto doing alterations. 

His career evolved into owning his 

own business — F.A.C.E, an acronym 

for Fashion Accessories, Closet 

Experts. Lenne would evaluate a person’s 

closet. After ridding it of any 

fashion faux pas, he rebuilt it with clothing 

and accessories to customize that 

person’s style. 

Parties with Panache 

Much like what he did with someone’s 

wardrobe, Lenne creates a statement 

with each event he coordinates. The 

majority of his business comes from 

house parties, his favorite venue. “You 

can really personalize a party, including 

a wedding, at someone’s home,” said 

Lenne. “The saying goes, if you want 

your house clean, have a party. If you 

want your house spotless, hire me. I 

will have even the garage completely 

cleaned and stocked with appropriate 

party needs, like paper towels, cups 

and soft drinks.” 

Lenne customizes each party 

according to the hosts and each event 

has its own sense of style and mood. 

When it comes to weddings he offers 

some advice to the bride and groom. 

“The biggest decoration inside your 

room is your guest list,” said Lenne. “I 

always tell the couple that they are the 

host and they need to work the room.” 

Even before the big day, Lenne 

works closely with couples on a game 

plan. “I am involved completely when I 

take on a wedding,” he said. “I have to 

approve the bride’s gown.” 

He runs his business with a checklist. 

It’s part of his everyday life and 

suggests that couples planning a wedding 

also must be organized. 

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Lenne’s success has been built 

from word of mouth and having 

worked with a professional team of 

vendors. He relies on the work of all 

other trades to pull off a successful 

soirée. “I use Zina and Donald 

George and Scott Winfrey with 

Marquis Food Services, because they 

do a fabulous job with their catering 

company, and have an excellent staff,” 

said Lenne. “I work with Special 

Events Party Rental because you can 

rent just about anything from them.” 

His humble spirit won’t allow Lenne 

to take total credit for his premier events. 

He has worked for free and without 

recognition for the Chaldean community, 

including events for the Chaldean 

American Ladies of Charity and the 

October 2004 gala fund-raiser for the 

Chaldean Community Cultural Center. 

Every Detail in Place 

Lenne prides himself on working as part 

of a team and is famously known among 

the industry for his “walk through,” in 

which he leads the team of workers 

through the event venue delegating the 

work that needs to be done. “Motivating 

people is vital,” said Lenne. “I surround 

myself with positive people and believe 

that we motivate with positive energy.” 

Lenne’s business sense kicks in as 

he plans each event — and the planner 

can stretch a dollar. “You used to be 

able to do a topnotch wedding five 

years ago with 400 guests for 

$65,000,” said Lenne. “Today you 

can’t do the same top-of-the-line event 

for less than $85,000.” Some things a 

couple can spend less on, Lenne suggests, 

are the invitations and the cake. 

An old saying goes: “expect the 

worst but hope for the best.” 

Regardless of how well he plans, 

Lenne knows that things don’t always 

go as hoped. “I remember a wedding 

where the couple did not take my 

advice on what the size of their wedding 

cake should be. During the reception 

the cake toppled over — you 

PHOTO BY DAVID REED 

Left: Natalie (Sheena) and Emanuel Casenas at their wedding: 

Lenne George's first Chaldean wedding. 

Above: Elegant table settings are a Lenne George trademark. 

heard this big bang,” he said “I decided 

to throw a tablecloth on the floor 

and have the couple sit next to the 

cake and take a bite. We shot a picture 

and it ended up being the photo for 

their thank you notes. We turned a 

messy situation into a festive one.” 

Today, Lenne still goes far beyond 

what is expected to make sure the 

wedding day becomes the reality of 

which the bride has dreamed. 

Recently, a bride forgot to buy shoes. 

That very day, not too long before she 

walked down the aisle, Lenne ran out 

to the mall and purchased six pairs to 

choose from. 

Lenne is more than a personal wedding 

planner; he quickly becomes a 

confidant and loyal friend keeping his 

couples in check. His ability to put 

things in perspective is reflective on 

how he runs his business. 

“The wedding is not just about that 

one day,” he said. “It’s every day after 

that — your life together as a couple 

and a family.” 

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CHAI time 

Her future depends on on yours – 

CHALDEANS CONNECTING 

COMMUNITY EVENTS IN AND AROUND METRO DETROIT FEBRUARY 2005 

Kevin Claxton, MSA, class of 2004. Katelyn Claxton, class of ? 

Bachelor’s and master’s degrees 

for working adults 

Get the future you want for yourself and for your children. Complete your 

bachelor’s degree or earn your master’s at Central Michigan University in 

Metro Detroit. Our practical, career-focused adult-friendly programs will 

bring new opportunities to you – and to your family. 

Adult-friendly features for you 

• Evening and weekend classes 

• No entrance exams 

• 8-week terms 

• 8 local centers 

• Affordable tuition 

At CMU in Metro Detroit, we see people just like you make their dreams 

come true every day. Believe in yourself. Believe in the power of your 

dreams. We do. 

[Thursday, February 3 - Sunday, February 13] 

Sesame Street Live: “Out of this World” is performed at the Fox Theatre in 

Detroit. Call (313) 471-3200. 

[Friday, February 4] 

Internal Networking Group Meeting: Members of the Chaldean 

American Chamber of Commerce meet at 8 a.m. at the Chamber office. 

For information, call (248) 538-3700. 

[Tuesday, February 8] 

Auction: The remaining assets of the Southfield Manor, including carpets, 

lights and kitchen equipment, will be auctioned off starting at 10 a.m. Drop 

by the day before to preview the items. 

Golf: Members of Shenandoah Country Club are invited to an informational 

meeting with Golf Pro Tom Fortuna. Lockers will be assigned by Dale 

Schneider. 7 p.m., Shenandoah. (248) 683-6363. 

Skin Deep: Botox to Total Body Makeovers: Henry Ford physicians 

speak as part of the Hot Topics in Women’s Health Series. $10 includes 

refreshments and valet parking. 7-8:30 p.m., Jewish Community Center, 

Dan and Betty Kahn Building, 6600 W. Maple Rd., West Bloomfield. Call 

(313) 874-2182. 

[Tuesday, February 8 - Tuesday, February 15] 

Basketball: Detroit Pubic Schools Boys Basketball Championships held 

5:30 and 7:30 p.m. Cobo Arena. Tickets are $5. (313) 396-7444. 

Toll-free (877) 268-4636 

www.cmudetroit.com 

IN METRO DETROIT 

[Thursday, February 10] 

Quarterly Networking Meeting: Members of the Michigan’s 

Department of Management and Budget will meet with the Chaldean 

American Chamber of Commerce to discuss doing business with the state. 

6-8 p.m., Shenandoah Country Club. For information, call (248) 538-3700. 

Auburn Hills • Clinton Township • Dearborn • Flint 

Livonia • Southfield • Troy • Warren 

[Saturday, February 12] 

Hockey: First Annual Alumni Showdown in Hockeytown featuring the 

Detroit Red Wings Alumni vs. the Toronto Maple Leafs Alumni. 7 p.m., Joe 

Louis Arena. Tickets are $10-$20. (313) 396-7444. 

CMU is an AA/EO institution (see www.cmich.edu/aaeo). cmuoffcampus@cmich.edu 15664d 9/04 

Please let us know what is going in the community. Fax your information 

to The Chaldean News Editorial Department. Subject: Chai Time 

Fax: 248-932-9161 


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IRAQ today 

Freed Archbishop Says Kidnappers 

Didn’t Realize Who He Was 

VATICAN CITY/AP 

ACatholic archbishop kidnapped 

in Iraq was released the next 

day without payment of ransom, 

the Vatican said. The prelate said his 

kidnappers didn’t realize who he was 

when they abducted him on January 17 

in the northern city of Mosul. 

Archbishop Basile Georges 

Casmoussa was back resting in his 

home shortly after his 19-hour-long kidnapping 

ended and told Vatican Radio 

he had not been mistreated. 

`Ì suspected that they kidnapped 

me thinking I was another person,’’ 

Casmoussa told reporters in Mosul. 

``They were kind with me and told me 

that I will be released very soon.’’ 

It was not clear if Casmoussa was 

wearing clerical garb when he was 

captured just after he came out of the 

home of a parishioner that Monday 

evening in Mosul. 

Casmoussa was quoted as telling 

the Italian news agency ANSA that he 

thought Pope John Paul II’s strong 

appeal on his behalf was a ``decisive 

factor’’ in his release. The Vatican had 

called the abduction a ``despicable terrorist 

act’’ and demanded that the kidnappers 

free him immediately. 

`Ì am truly, and, like a son, grateful 

to the pope, by whom I felt strongly 

supported in this very new situation for 

me,’’ Casmoussa was quoted as telling 

ANSA. ``The kidnappers themselves 

told me this morning about his appeal, 

which I maintain was a decisive factor 

in my liberation.’’ 

The pontiff, who had prayed for the 

bishop’s release, was informed immediately 

of the good news, said papal 

spokesman Joaquin Navarro-Valls. ``He 

changed his prayer to one of thanks,’’ 

he said. 

The kidnappers initially demanded a 

$200,000 ransom but then released the 

bishop without any payment, the 

Vatican said. 

Casmoussa, a 66-year-old Iraqi, is 

from the Syrian Catholic Church, one 

of the branches of the Roman Catholic 

Church. 

A priest in Iraq said on condition of 

anonymity that the archbishop was 

walking in front of the Al-Bishara 

church in Mosul’s eastern neighborhood 

of Muhandeseen when gunmen 

“I am truly, and 

like a son, grateful 

to the pope.” 

— ARCHBISHOP CASMOUSSA 

forced him into a car and drove away. 

Mosul, in Iraq’s north, has been a 

hotspot for the violent insurgency in 

recent months. 

`Ì think that my kidnapping was a 

coincidence,’’ the archbishop told 

Vatican Radio. `Ìt doesn’t seem to me 

that they wanted to strike at the Church 

per se.’’ 

Navarro-Valls said the Vatican didn’t 

view the kidnapping as an anti- 

Christian act but part of the general climate 

of violence in Iraq. He said the 

archbishop was well-loved in the community 

. 

Basile Georges 

Casmoussa, 66, 

the Archbishop of the 

Syrian Catholic Church, 

sits in a chair after 

he arrived back to the 

church in Mosul, some 

360 kilometers, 

(225 miles) north of 

Baghdad, on Jan. 18. 

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ONE-on-ONE 

Michigan Democratic Party’s Mark Brewer 

Mark Brewer, chair for the Michigan Democratic 

Party (MPD), talked to The Chaldean News about 

what is going on in the State of Michigan as it 

impacts the Chaldean community and the Democratic 

Party. 

Chaldean News (CN): Can you tell us briefly about 

some of the initiatives from the Michigan Democratic 

Party? 

Mark Brewer (MB): Michigan Democratic Party 

policy initiatives include: 

• Election Reform, including no-restriction absentee 

voting, same-day voter registration and early voting. 

• Economic development for small business. 

• Increase in the minimum wage. 

• Ensuring that all Michiganders have affordable 

health care. 

• Quality public education. 

• Fighting against President Bush’s plan to privatize 

Social Security. 

CN: Michigan always seems to be near the bottom 

of the list in the country when it comes to receiving 

federal dollars. Why? And what can you do to help 

change that? 

MB: Senators Levin and Stabenow and our 

Democratic Congressional delegation are tirelessly 

working to make sure Michigan receives every federal 

dollar that it deserves. 

CN: The Iraqi election is an historical time. What 

has the Democratic Party done to assist the President 

with the election process to ensure a true democracy, 

considering many Iraqi-Americans were eligible to 

vote? 

MB: As a political party, we have always supported 

the aspirations of people everywhere seeking a 

free and democratic society. We fully support the Iraqi 

people, their elections and their freedom. We encouraged 

all eligible Iraqi Americans to register and vote 

in the Iraqi elections. 

CN: Jobs were one of the issues at the forefront of 

this past presidential election. What has the State of 

Michigan and the Democratic Party done to attract 

jobs? Have we done everything possible to bring jobs 

to the state? 

MB: The Granholm Administration is working to 

kick start the state’s economy. The Governor invested 

$25 million in the Technology Tri Corridor to ignite 

investment in life sciences and high-tech job-creating 

capabilities and charged the Commission on Higher 

Education with development of strategies to double 

the number of college graduates to create a highly 

educated and well-trained workforce. 

Governor Granholm’s goal is to make Michigan a 

global economic powerhouse in the 21st century. In 

2004, more than 54,000 jobs were created or 

retained as a result of targeted assistance provided 

by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. 

Overall during 2004, the Governor announced the 

creation or retention of some 130,000 jobs by all state 

agencies. 

CN: What is the Democratic Party doing to get 

involved in the rebuilding efforts of Iraq, if anything? 

MB: As a political party, we are not directly 

involved in the rebuilding process, but we believe in 

and advocate a vigorous effort to rebuild Iraq. 

CN: How can Chaldeans Americans become 

more involved in doing business with various levels of 

government? What type of outreach has the 

Michigan Democratic Party done with the Chaldean 

community? 

MB: I encourage all Chaldean Americans in 

Michigan to get involved with the Michigan 

Democratic Party as voters, members and candidates. 

The MDP has a Chaldean Democratic Club 

and Chaldean Americans can also get involved with 

their congressional district and county parties, which 

would give them the opportunity to meet and work 

with Democratic leaders in national, state and local 

With WWW.ATMWHOLESALER.COM 


governments. Information about the MDP and its 

activities can be found at its website: www.mi-democrats.com, 

or by calling (517) 371-5410. 

CN: Various elected officials in both the 

Democratic and Republican parties have appointed 

Chaldeans to their administration, yet many other 

administrations have no representatives from our 

community. How can we remedy that? Also, many 

Chaldean Americans often feel overlooked by elected 

officials or lumped into another group. Do you believe 

that state officials really understand our community 

and our needs? If not, how can we better educate 

them on who we are? 

MB: There are several ways we can remedy the 

lack of Chaldean representation and educate the public 

on the Chaldean American community. Becoming 

active in the MDP is one answer. Further, the MDP 

can promote various Chaldean American activities 

(conferences, forums) through e-mail and the 

Internet. 

In addition, this summer Governor Granholm created 

the Commission on Arab and Chaldean 

American Affairs. The commission serves in an advisory 

capacity to the Governor, alerting her to pertinent 

issues within the largest Chaldean American community 

outside of the Middle East. 

The commission will also make recommendations 

about programs and policies for the betterment of 

Arab and Chaldean Americans in Michigan and will 

help promote public awareness of Arab and 

Chaldean culture and accomplishments. 

CN: The Governor presented the “Cool Cities” 

concept that attracts “Creative Classes,” but according 

to a questionnaire of 1,300 state residents age 

18-35, they prefer comfort. They don’t want pricey 

“I encourage 

all Chaldean 

Americans in 

Michigan to 

get involved 

with the 

Michigan 

Democratic 

Party as voters, 

members and 

candidates.” 

— MARK BREWER 

downtown lofts; they want affordable housing and a 

nice place to raise a family. How has this information 

changed the Governor’s “Cool Cities” campaign? 

MB: The Granholm Administration agrees with the 

results of the survey. They understand that a vital part 

of any city is its safety and security. A place might not 

necessarily be “cool” simply because it is safe and 

secure, but it cannot become “cool” if it is not perceived 

as safe. 

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immigration bias? 

Why Chaldedans can’t get 

asylum in the U.S. 

Ask any Chaldean who 

has contact with fellow 

Christians still 

living in the homeland. They tell 

stories of persecution at the hands of 

Islamic fundamentalists, of liquor 

stores and beauty parlors attacked, of 

Christians kidnapped, of churches 

bombed. Why then are Iraq’s 

Christians having such a difficult 

time receiving asylum from the U.S. 

government? 

Many immigration attorneys 

blame both the U.S. government 

and Chaldean Church leaders. Each, 

they say, maintain the position that 

all of Iraq’s people are suffering, and 

that Christians in particular are not 

being targeted. 

“Our government is not going to 

admit that it can’t protect these people,” 

said Namir Daman, an immigration 

attorney based in Oak Park. 

“And the church is really hampering 

our efforts in obtaining across-theboard 

asylum for Christians. Church 

leaders are saying the bombings 

have only been isolated incidents 

and that the Christian situation is 

improving.” 

Steven Garmo, an immigration 

attorney in Farmington Hills, agrees. 

“The United States wants stability 

in Iraq. Without Christians, we 

may not have the stability,” he said. 

“The U.S. government doesn’t want 

Christians to leave Iraq, and neither 

does the Chaldean clergy.” 

In fact, Garmo said, Mar 

Emmanuel Delly, Iraq’s Chaldean 

patriarch, insists to the media that 

mosques are being bombed as well as 

churches. He, as well as Yonadam 

Kanna, the interim government’s 

Chaldean representative, must always 

keep politics in mind, Garmo said. 


“You have to be political in Iraq 

— you can’t just say that Christians 

are being persecuted,” said Garmo. 

“If you talk about it too much, you 

will only bring more violence, more 

Christians targeted.” 

Daman agreed politics plays a 

role, but said church leaders are 

going too far to downplay problems. 

“They are going out of their way 

to say these are only isolated incidents,” 

he said. “They say, ‘everyone 

is suffering, just give it more time.’” 

Southfield Attorney Jane Shallal 

said asylum is difficult for Chaldeans 

to achieve because a lot of the persecution 

is general in nature. 

“Asylum laws require you to be 

very case-specific,” she said. “They 

want to hear exactly who, when, 

where the persecution took place.” 

But a lot of the persecution 

Christians are undergoing is more 

subtle, such as social ostranization or 

women being pressured to cover 

their head with a hijab. The kidnappings 

of Christians, she said, can be 

viewed as the work of thugs after 

money rather than an organized persecution. 

WHAT TO DO? 

Shallal recommends that Chaldeans 

coming from Iraq and hoping to seek 

asylum bring as much collaborating 

evidence as possible, including — if 

they exist — medical records for 

injuries from torture, psychiatric 

records from treatment for post-traumatic 

syndrome and affidavits of witnesses 

and family members. 

It’s often easier to enter the country 

on a three-year employment visa, 

she said, which can be extended for 

another three years. After that, if 

BIAS continued on page 39 


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BUSINESSES FOR SALE 

NEW PAWN SHOP FOR SALE 

Pawn brokers license and business for 

sale with or without building. Located in 

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BUSINESS FOR SALE 

Food Court restaurant for sale in 

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PROPERTY FOR SALE 

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Did You Know? 

The Chaldean News 

classifieds listings 

keep your phone 

ringing off the hook! 

CLASSIFIED ORDER FORM 

Four ways to place your ad! 

1. Online at www.chaldeannews.com 2. Fax (248) 932-9161 3. Phone (248) 932-3100 

4. Send it to: The Chaldean News, 30095 NW. Hwy., Ste. 102, Farm. Hills, MI 48334 

RATES: $6 PER LINE; 5-LINE MINIMUM. 

NAME _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

STREET ADDRESS______________________________________________________________________________________________ 

CITY ________________________________________________________________ STATE ________ ZIP ____________________ 

PHONE ____________________________________________________________ E-MAIL _____________________________________________ 

AMOUNT ENCLOSED ________________________________ 

CATEGORY (CHECK ONLY ONE): 

House for Sale 

House for Rent 

Condo for Sale 

Condo/Apartment for Rent 

Vacation Property for Sale 

Vacation Rentals 

PRINT THE EXACT TEXT OF YOUR AD (ATTACH A SEPARATE SHEET IF NECESSARY): 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Rates are subject to change without notice. The Chaldean News reserves the right to reject, edit or revise any 

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including reasonable costs of collection, attorney’s fees, litigation costs and interest on the unpaid balance. 

I agree to these terms. 

Office Space to Share 

Lost and Found 

Merchandise for Sale 

Automobiles for Sale 

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Cemetery Lots 

Wanted to Buy 

Pets 

Help Wanted 

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PRINTED NAME ______________________________________________________________ DATE _________________________ 

All classifieds must be pre-paid. Call (248) 932-3100 for more information. 

Deadline: 20th of each month for the next month’s issue. 

HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL 

VACANCY 

Qualifications: 

Lahser 

High School 

3456 Lahser Rd 

Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 

Minimum 5 years teaching experience/valid Michigan teaching 

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Minimum master’s degree from regionally accredited college or 

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oushala 

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BY SAMIRA YAKO CHOLAGH 

Ingredients 

1 quart half and half milk 

1 quart heavy whipping cream 

5 tablespoons cornstarch 

Instructions 

Mix 1 cup of half and half with cornstarch 

and whisk until smooth. 

Place in a heavy saucepan. 

Add remaining half and half and heavy 

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BIAS 

Continued from page 36 

the employer is willing, such immigrants 

can get labor certification 

and get legal permanent residence. 

This is only a viable option for people 

with professional degrees, she 

said, but it’s easier than going for 

asylum. 

Daman said Iraqi Christians who 

feel they are in danger should leave 

the country for Jordan, Lebanon or 

another neighboring nation and 

apply at its United Nations office for 

refuge status. Temporary residence is 

guaranteed, he said, until the person 

finds a country that will allow the 

person to move there permanently. 

Garmo recommends that Iraqi 

Chaldeans consider immigrating to 

Canada. 

“Many people forget that Canada 

has a very flexible immigrations system 

— significantly more flexible 

than the U.S.,” he said. 

Daman, who is currently representing 

about 100 Chaldeans in Metro 

Detroit and 20 in the Chicago area, 

said no one has been deported back to 

Iraq yet. But he worries that once the 

U.S. government believes the situation 

in Iraq is stabilized, that may happen. 

LOOKING DOWN THE ROAD 

The attorneys agree that immigration 

officials have become a bit more sympathetic 

to Iraqi Christians since the 

coordinated church bombings in 

August 2004. 

“Asylum officers have not been very 

knowledgable about the plight of 

Christians in Iraq,” said Shallal. “Only 

recently, since the church bombings, is 

there really understanding. So now 

Chaldeans can use religious persecution 

to seek asylum rather than political 

persecution.” 

But, Garmo said, it’s still an uphill 

battle. 

“Since the church bombings it has 

become a little easier,” Garmo agreed, 

“but the immigration judges in Detroit 

continue to believe and listen to the 

U.S. government, State Department 

and our own church elders in Iraq, who 

say Christians are not being persecuted.” 

Mar Ibrahim N. Ibrahim, bishop 

of the St. Thomas Chaldean Church 

Diocese, declined to comment on 

the issue. 


event 

open house at 

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January 7 marked a day 

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Above: 

Mighael Halabu (left), 

Renee Foumia and 

Sommer Kassab 

Left to right: 

Walid Habboo (left) 

and Jan Abbo 

Lauren Kathawa 

(left), Mar Ibrahim N. 

Ibrahim, Thaira and 

Raad Kathawa 

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