MARCH 2017

VOL. 13 ISSUE II
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INSIDE
ARTISTIC THERAPY
BUSTLING
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LIFELONG DEGREE
WHY
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PRIORITY?
PRESIDENT’S EXECUTIVE
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2 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

MARCH 2017 CHALDEAN NEWS 3

4 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

CONTENTS MARCH 2017
THE CHALDEAN NEWS VOLUME 12 ISSUE XII
12 24
38
departments
6 FROM THE EDITOR
BY VANESS DENHA GARMO
Media Minded
7 YOUR LETTERS
8 IN MY VIEW
BY MICHAEL SARAFA
There’s a crack in everything
10 WHERE DO YOU STAND?
BY MICHAEL SARAFA
Is President Trump right to give
priority immigration status to
Christians of the Middle East?
12 NOTEWORTHY
14 IRAQ TODAY
16 CHAI TIME
18 RELIGION
19 OBITUARIES
30 ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
BY WEAM NAMOU
Artistic Therapy
32 ECONOMICS AND ENTERPRISE
BY PAUL NATINSKY
Brothers bring spark to electrical
contracting business
on the cover
22 WHY CHRISTIAN PRIORITY?
BY VANESSA DENHA GARMO
Executive Order consistent with campaign message
features
24 BUSTLING BIRMINGHAM
BY LISA CIPRIANO
Big on business and small town charm
26 LIFELONG DEGREE
BY WEAM NAMOU
A Ph.D in Arab studies and Doctorate in Life experiences
27 MEN OF FAITH
BY KRIS HARRIS
The Genesis of men sharing their faith with others
28 HONORED BY THE CHAMBER
31 CHALDEAN ON THE STREET
What do you think of President Trump
giving Christians priority status?
34 DOCTOR IS IN
36 CLASSFIED LISTINGS
38 EVENT
Inside The Museum
ON THE COVER:
PHOTO BY PABLO
MARTINEZ MONSIVAIS/AP
MARCH 2017 CHALDEAN NEWS 5

from the EDITOR
PUBLISHED BY
The Chaldean News, LLC
Media Minded
EDITORIAL
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Vanessa Denha-Garmo
MANAGING EDITORS
Denha Media Group
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Weam Namou
Haleem Sheena
Paul Natinsky
Lisa Cipraino
Kris Harris
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When I was studying
journalism
at Wayne State
University for my undergraduate
degree, I wrote
a paper about the media
and their relationship
with past presidents. At
the time, Bill Clinton was
our President. I referenced
a book called, The Press
and the Presidency: From
George Washington to
Ronald Reagan, authored
by Sarah Mile Watts and John William
Tebbel. I have been thinking
about that paper and the book in
particular a lot lately. The two only
wrote the one edition, but I can’t
help but think a second edition
is long over-due. My paper ended
with Clinton giving an overview
of how the media has covered the
presidency over the years, and how
the authors explore the shifting and
often dangerous press-president relations.
As we look at the infancy
of the Trump’s presidency, we can
at least surmise that his is a lovehate
relationship with the media.
I have been in the media, and
working with the media for more
than 20 years. It is truly a part of
my fabric. I think my emotions are
mixed between love and hate, respect
and disgust with the media today.
Having been in it for so long, I
know first-hand the challenges and
the responsibility. A professor once
said that if we were to pursue this
profession, we would be the most
powerful people in the world. That
statement has proven to be true a
million-times over. There is great
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VANESSA
DENHA-GARMO
EDITOR IN CHIEF
CO-PUBLISHER
power in the pen and with
those who have access to
the airwaves.
Today, the media are
not the only powerful
people and this presidency
is proving it. With social
media platforms, anyone
with a large following,
including the President,
can garner just as much
and sometimes even more
attention that any single
media outlet can provide.
It has always been my belief
that Barak Obama became the 44th
President of the United States, despite
his lack of experience and
virtually no name recognition,
only because he utilized the biggest
platform in the world – The Oprah
Winfrey Show. I don’t believe there
was a more powerful public forum
he could use than the one the
Queen of Talk provided.
That show has since ended and
social media has emerged, foreverchanging
the media climate. We
all are adapting, fighting and struggling
with the “new” media. Some
issues only get the fair coverage
they deserve on social platforms.
Or, perhaps you can tell the real
story on your own platform if the
news isn’t covering it.
As far as we can tell, this President
will spend the next four
years in a tumultuous relationship
with the media. I think he is in a
“dammed if you do, dammed if you
don’t” situation. Both sides are to
blame. The old saying goes, it takes
two to tango. They are both engaged
in this dance. His untamed
tongue has triggered some of the attacks
and biased reporting, by some
media outlets, has prompted the
President to tangle via tweets.
Among the many controversial
stories in the news today was
the President’s executive order to
ban entrance of refugees or anyone
from seven Arab Countries. I am
one that doesn’t believe it is a Muslim
ban although, I do have question
as to why certain countries
were not included. However, I do
support the priority status Christians
were given for many reasons.
My opinion on that can be found
on our website.
For the purpose of this edition,
we give you the cover story that focuses
on an interview from Senator
David Trott on the issue, as well as
a side bar on his opinion about it.
We have spent that last 13 years
covering the plight of Christians
in Iraq. I co-produced the documentary
Marked on the topic. We,
as Chaldeans, know first-hand the
suffering of our brothers and sisters
in the Middle East. We must support
any effort to help them. That
was the main reason I agreed to go
on Fox 2 Detroit’s Let it Rip with
Huel Perkins and Charlie Langton.
Despite being challenged by
Congresswoman Debbie Dingell,
in her often emotional style that
the platform itself creates, I stood
my ground. This was not about
banning Muslims. It is about protecting
our country and supporting
anyone persecuted.
Regardless of the platform, the
real power is in truth. Not political
and personal agendas or media
biases. It is speaking truth, which
I always believe comes out eventually,
so why not tell it in the beginning.
You don’t need a pen that drips
powerful ink, or have a voice that
is heard by millions. You need only
to use whatever platform you stand
on to utter words of honesty and integrity.
It’s about you being mindful
of the media not about the media
controlling your mind.
Alaha Imid Koullen
(God Be With Us All)
Vanessa Denha-Garmo
vanessa@denhamedia.com
Follow her on Twitter @
vanessadenha
Follow Chaldean News on Twitter @
chaldeannews
Recent Development
On Tuesday, February 21st, Sterling
Heights’ city council voted
unanimously 7-0 to approve building
a Mosque. In the April issue,
we will take a deeper look into the
relationship between Chaldeans
and Muslims in the United States.
6 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

your LETTERS
Contrasting View
The “slanting” fallacy involves describing
a position in negative terms
instead of arguing against it. Sarafa’s
piece concerning Cardinal Burke is
slant-riddled (In My View, February
2016). Using words such as “extreme,”
“traditionalism,” “moralism,”
“rigid,” “byzantine,” “arcane,” “absurd,”
and “anti-Francis,” his piece
evokes a knee-jerk reaction intended
to cloud rational judgment. Ironically,
Sarafa accuses the Cardinal of “ranting,”
though Sarafa’s own article reads
like a tantrum and is misinformed.
Burke sees himself as Francis’
supporter and protector, not his “opponent.”
He is concerned to prevent
moral mayhem; a true pastor, he believes,
ensures moral accountability,
not accommodation. That formal
correction of a pontiff “has not been
used in centuries” does not illegitimate
it; suggesting that a policy such
as this should be revoked if it is seldom
transgressed, or rarely applied, is
irrational.
The Church is “stupid,” Sarafa
thinks, not to support contraceptive
measures in “depraved places.” However,
if “ends justify means,” we open
ourselves to moral violations that not
even Sarafa would accept. Or perhaps
he would--since he seems ignorant of
the philosophical foundations of the
Church’s sexual morality, claiming
that it is a set of “assertions” without a
basis in “common sense and decency.”
Utterly against charity, and astonishing
illogical, is his ad hominem
suggestion that advanced
age renders a person’s moral or philosophical
positions untenable (he
notes repeatedly that the dubia were
composed by “octogenarians” — “the
old”)! One wonders if Sarafa’s opinions,
too, will expire as he seasons.
In the penultimate paragraph of
the article we see both hysteria and
calumny. Sarafa actually suggests
that the Cardinal is a cross-dresser.
Sarafa’s article offends liberals,
conservatives, charity itself, and
most of all reason. Instead of jumping
on the bandwagon and criticizing
a Cardinal who clearly has fortitude
surpassing 99% of us Catholics, let’s
look to Burke as a moral exemplar
and defender of truth.
– Dr. Elizabeth Salas, Ph.D and
Assistant Professor of Philosophy,
Sacred Heart Major Seminary
Tying the Knot
I think if Jesus showed up today marriage
and family would be very much
on His mind. The family is the core
unit of society and if this unravels,
society unravels. Divorce contributes
to this. I do not judge anyone who is
divorced because I know it is a very
difficult and painful situation with a
lot of heartache. We should not judge
them just as it is not our place to
judge anyone. We leave that to God
who is the only one who can judge
perfectly. Divorcees have the option
of annulment before remarriage. Annulment
is necessary because marriage
is God’s law, not man’s. If an
annulment is granted individuals can
remarry and receive communion,
no problem. What if an annulment
is not granted? That is truly difficult
and sad and I don’t have an answer
but Our Blessed Mother has said that
if we pray and fast we will find a solution
to every problem even if we believe
non exists. If someone chooses
to remarry w/o an annulment God
will not banish them. He will love
them and stay close to them. Receiving
communion will not help them
but going to Mass will.
– Vickie Sarafa
Concern for Others
This letter was sent to Archdiocese of
Detroit, in response to the Michigan
Catholic’s Feb. 10th cover story.
Greetings Father Grau and Mr. Blaul:
It was good seeing the concern
for refugees by the Archbishop, but
I saw very little mention of resettling
and aiding our Christian brothers
and sisters being severely persecuted
in the Middle East! This disturbed
me greatly, especially after reading
the article linked below. National
security is a must! article. All of my
Catholic relatives and friends in the
A of D feel the same. See 20 “..Thoroughly
Vetted..” Muslim Refugees
Who Committed Acts of Terrorism
Inside the United States After Being
Approved for Entry.
– Nick Sayers
MARCH 2017 CHALDEAN NEWS 7

in my VIEW
‘There’s a crack in everything’
There’s a story from
Buddhism about
a young man who
had lost his leg and was
struggling emotionally.
He went to a Buddhist
monastery seeking guidance
and refuge. He was
extremely angry at life
and always drew pictures
of cracked vases. Over
time, he found inner
peace at the monastery.
While his outlook on life began to
change and improve, he still drew
broken vases. His master asked him
one day: “Why do you still draw
a crack in the vases? Are you not
whole?” He replied, “yes, and so are
the vases. That’s how the light gets
in.”
One of the central themes of
Pope Francis’ pontificate is that of
“hope.” He often quotes the book
MICHAEL G.
SARAFA
SPECIAL TO THE
CHALDEAN NEWS
of Roman that “hope does
not disappoint.” But,
rather, optimism disappoints.
This may seem
rather gloomy but Francis
conducts his ministry
from a place of realism.
I think this Pope understands
intuitively that
true faith often comes
from a starting point of
difficulties and challenges.
The Pope has been
critical in the past of “those who
hide in the Church” or are “couch
Christians.”
In a recent homily, he said this:
“No one learns to hope alone and
those who isolate themselves in
their wellbeing know no hope;
their only hope is in welfare and
that is not hope: it is false security”.
Instead, the Pope says that “those
who hope are those who experience
trials, uncertainty and their own
limitations every day.”
Enter Leonard Cohen, the poet,
composer and musician who recently
died. Cohen was born Jewish,
studied Buddhism and drew
much from the Christian faith for
his music and poems. I’ve taken the
One of the central
themes of Pope
Francis’ pontificate
is that of “hope.”
occasion of his death to familiarize
myself with his work. He started
his career as a writer and much later
began composing and performing
his own material. He became
known as sort of a philosopher and
much of his focus was on religion,
spirituality, politics and love. One
of his compositions, called Anthem,
seems to draw from his connection
to several religions including
a reference to holy doves. The
refrain goes like this:
Ring the bells that still can ring
Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack, a crack in everything
That’s how the light gets in
The entire poem and musical arrangement
can be heard on YouTube
if you search “Cohen Anthem.” It’s
really nice. It struck a chord with
me and might with you too.
If your life is a little cracked, or
you’re not feeling entirely whole, remember,
that’s how the light gets in.
Then, recognizing one’s own limitations
and uncertainties, ring that
bells that still can ring and move
forward.
8 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

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MARCH 2017 CHALDEAN NEWS 9

where do you STAND?
Is President Trump right to give priority immigration
status to Christians of the Middle East?
BY MIKE SARAFA
This month’s cover story explains President
Trump’s follow through on his campaign
pledge. Trump pledged to give Middle Eastern
Christians priority when crafting immigration
policies for the Unites States, including his attempted
ban on immigration from certain Muslim
countries. This pledge—now turned policy—is
controversial to say the least. It has been championed
by those representing the afflicted groups,
but roundly condemned by those who object to religious
preferences in these matters.
Where do you stand?
To analyze a complex problem such as this, it
might be helpful to draw upon a basic theory in
college logic courses. Remember Aristotle and the
syllogism? Wikipedia defines a syllogism as a major
premise, supported by a minor premise to deduce a
conclusion. Thus, in Wikipedia’s example; all men
are mortal; Socrates is a man; therefore Socrates is
mortal.
I have constructed four syllogisms that assume
various points of view that might be useful in bringing
some clarity to this issue. But the bottom line is
that the major premise is often formed by one’s own
opinion of perspective regarding the facts. Still, some
facts are well known which is potentially problematic
for some conclusions. They are not constructed very
neatly, but you’ll get the point. Here they are:
All terrorists are Muslim.
Muslim immigrants could be terrorists.
Therefore immigration from Muslim countries
should be stopped.
Christians in the Middle East are persecuted.
Persecuted people deserve special treatment.
Therefore, Christians deserve special treatment.
The influx of immigrants is bad.
U.S Policy allows too much immigration.
Therefore U.S immigration policy is bad.
Americans have common Judeo-Christian values.
Christians of the Middle East share those values.
Therefore, more Christians should be welcomed to
the U.S.
There seems to be two underlying premises to
Trump’s views: one is that crime is up nationally;
second, illegal immigration is up. Therefore, illegal
immigrants must commit crime. Unfortunately,
for the Trump administration, there are no facts
that bear any of that out.
On the other hand, the fate of Christianity in
the Middle East has been moving in the wrong
direction for a generation. With ISIS, it came to
head. Christians were given a choice to convert,
leave or die. Christian towns were emptied then
plundered. Churches destroyed.
There is a case for preferences for Christian immigration.
It runs up against American ideals of
fairness and equity. It is between these two roads
that this issue travels. How it ends up and whether
it is right, is up to us as a society and government
to decide.
10 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

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MARCH 2017 CHALDEAN NEWS 11

noteworthy
Reclaiming Iraq
Thursday, January 26, 2017 will be remembered as an historical day for the people of Telkaipe. The celebration was attended by his Excellency Mar Louis Sako,
Patriarch of the Chaldeans world-wide in addition to Bishop Basillio Yaldo and bishop Michael Al-Makdasi and Bishop Habib Nofali and other priests and nuns.
The celebration was for the installation of the cross back on top of the dome of Sacred Heart Chaldean Church in Telkaipe after being liberated from the rule of
ISIS. Young men form the town of Telkaipe climbed to the top of the dome and installed a wooden cross until a big permanent one is made an affixed on top.
The people of the town rejoiced at the sounds of the church bells being heard again. Local government authorities along with the Kurdish Peshmerga were among
the attendance. “It was a truly historical moment,” said Shokie Konja from the Chaldean Voice. Konja flew to Iraq specifically to witness this event, “to raise the
Chaldean flag on the roof of the church and to regain our Christian city of Telkaipe was so emotional. It was an honor to share in this solidarity and to represent
not only the Chaldean Voice but the community in Michigan.”
He’s got Game
George Kassa and team won the
World Championships in the Rainbow
Six Siege World Championship
Competition. His team, Continuum,
represented the United
States. Twelve teams from around
the globe competed for the coveted
title, six from PC, and six from Xbox.
Competing in Montreal, the winning
team took home the title and
a $200,000 prize. Throughout the
past year of the Rainbow Six ESL
Pro League, four teams stood out and
were invited, the other 8 had to earn
a spot in the Six Invitational. They
have fought, competed, and claimed
championships that have earned
them this incredible opportunity. On
February 3-5th, 2017 in Montreal,
these four teams competed against
eight qualifier winners for Rainbow
Six Siege’s biggest event ever. The
3-day event matched the six PC
teams against each other. The wining
team from PC was Continuum.
A Right to Life
prolife educational outreach within
the Chaldean community.
If you have not seen this clip either
on the Right to Life of Michigan’s
website (www.rtl.org) or on television,
then you’ll want to watch the Shauna
Prewitt piece on this link: https://rtl.
org/compassion/play_all.html
Going Sola
A new concept in the salon business
has attracted Chaldean entrepreneurs.
Contacts: Renadah Arabo
248-974-7391 or Rahnda Loussia 248.
346. 6611 rahnda@solasalon.com
People on the Move
Dr. Nafso, Dr. Samano,
and Dr. Kejbou
at Bloomfield Hills
Dental Associates
are proud to welcome
Dr. Anthony
Yaldo to the practice.
Dr. Yaldo is a recent graduate
of the University of Detroit Mercy
School of Dentistry. He is committed
to providing an exceptional dental
experience in a comfortable atmosphere
for every patient. Dr. Yaldo is
dedicated to helping patients attain
their ideal smile and is thrilled to join
the practice.
One of the Best
96.3 WDVD’s Blaine Fowler Morning
Show’s “Blaine’s Best” honors
extraordinary women in the community
who do special things for
others, who are selfless and give of
themselves all the time. Hundreds of
women were nominated by listeners,
but only 10 were chosen. Melody
Arabo was one of the 10 selected as
“Blaine’s Best”, and was nominated
by her friend Brandy. She awarded
the honor for her work as a school
teacher, winning Michigan’s Teacher
of the Year award, writing a children’s
book about combating bullying, and
her work with other schools around
the state to find out what they were
doing to help end it. Her focus as a
teacher has always been about what’s
best for kids and the environment in
which they learn. She teaches her
students to be lifelong learners, but
more importantly, how to be compassionate
and empathetic to others,
and that’s why she was chosen as one
of “Blaine’s Best”.
For the 3rd year in a row, Right to
Life Michigan has teamed up with the
Chaldean Diocese and community
members to host an annual fundraiser
called “Min Sharetha.” The Benefit
Reception is on Thursday, June
1, 2017 at the Shenandoah Country
Club. Shauna is the keynote speaker.
Her story is powerful. Her prolife witness
heroic. Her talk will be inspiring
to all who attend this annual event in
support of Right to Life of Michigan’s
People in the News
KW Domain welcomes
new associate
Kim Salman.
They are very
excited to have
her join their Birmingham
family
and thrilled at the
opportunity to have their businesses
grow together.
People in the
Spotlight
Mark & Marilyn Kassa attended the
59th Annual Grammy’s in Los Angeles.
The event took place at the
STAPLES Center and was broadcast
LIVE on Sunday, February 12th.
12 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

noteworthy
Industry Outlook: Women Leaders in the Chaldean Community
Christine Jonna
Piligian
Judge Hala Jarbou
Dr. Marisa Abbo
Renee Lossia-Acho
In the April issue of the Chaldean
News, we will feature a recap of
the Chaldean American Chamber
of Commerce’s Industry Outlook:
Women Leaders in the Chaldean
Community.
Industry Outlook events vary in
topics and industry focus, but always
provide information and insight for
today’s professionals. This event will
feature a format that it hasn’t used in
many years. “We are very excited to
have an all-women panel,” said Mary
Kirma, Events Coordinator with
Chaldean Chamber. “It has been
nearly 10 years since we’ve had an
event like this, so we’re thrilled to
have them share their success stories
with our members.”
The March 1st event is at The
Bird & The Bread in Birmingham.
Guest speakers include Dr. Marisa
Abbo, Medical Director of Covenant
Community Care, Renee
Lossia-Acho, Owner and Investor of
KW Domain Luxury Homes International,
Judge Hala Jarbou, Oakland
County Circuit Court, and Christine
Jonna Piligian, Chairman and President
of Jonna Realty Ventures, Inc.
Vanessa Denha Garmo, Co-
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief for
the Chaldean News and Founder of
Denha Media Group, will moderate
the event. “I thought it was a great
idea to have women panelists,” said
Denha Garmo. “I am really looking
forward to moderating an event that
will spotlight some of the best and
brightest women in our community.”
Speaker Dr. Marisa Abbo received
her Bachelors in Psychology
from Wayne State University and
her Masters in Social Work from
the University of Michigan. She
changed career paths to pursue her
childhood dream of becoming a doctor
and works for a faith based federally
qualified health center in Royal
Oak that cares for the uninsured and
underinsured.
Renee Lossia Acho emerged
quickly as an industry leader using
her skillful, creative, and consultative
approach to marketing and sales.
Renee ranks in the top 1% of realtors
nationally and was the 2015 Entrepreneur
of the Year for the Women’s
Council of Realtors as well as named
a 2016 Esteemed Women of Michigan
Honoree.
Judge Hala Jarbou graduated from
Wayne State University Law School
and was appointed as an Oakland
County Circuit Court Judge in October
2015. She was assigned to the
Civil/Criminal Division and is a
member of the Chaldean American
Ladies of Charity.
Christine Jonna Piligian joined
Jonna Construction Company in
1972 and in 1981, she saw an opportunity
to expand the family business
into real estate. Since the formation
of Jonna Realty Ventures, Inc., the
company has evolved into a fullservice
real estate development and
property management company.
“All of the speakers bring years of
experience to the panel,” explained
Kirma. “So members will have an opportunity
to obtain a unique perspective
on the industry.”
MARCH 2017 CHALDEAN NEWS 13

IRAQ today
Iraqis risk all to spy on Islamic State militants in Mosul
BY QASSIM ABDUL-ZAHRA AND SUSANNAH GEORGE
Cell phones vary widely in Mosul, Iraq.
MOSUL, Iraq (AP) The Iraqi intelligence
agent knew something was
wrong. An Islamic State group member
working for him as an informant
in the city of Mosul called him on his
mobile, but he didn’t identify himself
by the code name they always used in
their communications. Then the informant
started talking to him about
selling his car.
The agent played along.
Days later, the informant called
back and explained: The militants
had seen the number on his phone
and, always on the hunt for spies,
demanded he call it. So he did and
pretended he was talking to the guy
who sold him his car.
Iraqi intelligence has some 300
people working as informants inside
the city of Mosul, part of an enormous
information-gathering operation
unfolding on the sidelines of
the intense urban fighting for Mosul,
according to officials. They have
pinpointed militants’ positions and
movements, warned of car bombs or
hidden explosives and helped fill a
list of names of IS supporters.
The work is extremely dangerous.
IS militants in Mosul are known
to kill at the slightest suspicion of
espionage. People caught speaking
on mobile phones have been shot by
snipers or killed and hung from lampposts,
according to accounts from the
city. And when Iraqi forces recapture
a neighborhood, informants face getting
caught up in residents’ revenge
attacks against militants.
More than half a dozen Iraqi intelligence
officials interviewed by
The Associated Press described their
operations. They said trust of the security
forces among Mosul’s residents
has been key to their efforts. However,
reports of long, arbitrary detentions
of men and boys suspected of
IS-links risks undermining that trust.
During the Mosul operation, intelligence
agencies have built a database
of some 18,000 names of suspected
IS fighters, according to two
Iraqi intelligence officials in Baghdad
who have access to the database.
Male residents of retaken parts of
the city are checked against the list,
leading so far to the arrest of 900
people, they said.
All the officials spoke on condition
of anonymity as they were not
authorized to talk to the press. They
also refused to give details on the
informants for fear of endangering
them.
The informants have a variety of
motives. Some do it for money, since
some agents pay for information.
Others do it out of hatred of IS.
One operative was an Iraqi IS member
who was beaten because he was
caught smoking _ a crime under the
militants’ rule.
“That was the first spark,’’ said a
Baghdad-based intelligence official
in contact with the man. As time
went on, the man grew disillusioned.
So he started feeding information to
intelligence officials.
Another is a 70-year-old man who
escaped the militants’ suspicions because
of his age, the official said. But
then after his neighborhood was retaken
by Iraqi forces, neighbors blew
up his house in anger at IS, unaware
he was secretly betraying the group.
After months of fighting, troops
have taken Mosul’s eastern half and
are about to move into the west.
The intelligence gathering effort has
been crucial there since Iraqi forces
were under pressure for precision to
avoid casualties among the hundreds
of thousands of civilians still in the
city.
On a recent day on the outskirts
of Mosul, an Iraqi major involved in
planning the western assault scrolled
through messaging apps on his phone.
The screen was filled with short texts,
dropped pins and links to satellite
maps. The messages read simply:
“sniper position,’’ “mortar team,’’ and
“Daesh base,’’ using the Arabic acronym
for the militant group.
He and intelligence officials said
During the Mosul
operation, intelligence
agencies
have built a da tabase
of some 18,000
names of sus pected
IS fighters.
they vet and cross-check information.
Still, the process has been
plagued with problems.
A colonel in the intelligence services
in Baghdad said dozens of trusted
informants have turned out to be
double agents for IS. He recounted
one case of one who provided information
for weeks about fighters and
headquarters behind IS lines. Last
month, he sent in a tip about a roadside
bomb.
The colonel vetted the tip and
AP PHOTO/ KHALID MOHAMMED
sent one of his men in Mosul to investigate.
The soldier and the source
were not heard from again.
“We think the source handed him
over to Daesh,’’ he said.
Another intelligence official said
he knew of some half dozen informants
discovered and killed by IS
and still more who stopped sending
information, their fate unknown.
Key to success has been the concerted
effort by security forces to
keep support of Mosul’s Sunnis, who
have resented domination by the
Shiite-led government in Baghdad.
They long complained of discrimination
and of abuses by security forces,
something that helped fuel the rise of
the Islamic State group. During the
Mosul offensive, troops have gone
out of their way to help residents and
prevent sectarian tensions.
On a recent operation in eastern
Mosul, Lt. Col. Muhanad al-Timimi
and his men were greeted warmly by
residents of the Andalus neighborhood.
They went door to door asking
about IS militants.
One resident, Muhammed
Ghanim, led the soldiers to a house
with a pile of mortars in the garden.
“This was where they had their
base,’’ he said.
Another, Amar Baroudi, gave
the soldiers tea _ and names of more
than 20 Iraqis fighting for IS.
“These people were ignorant and
very cruel to us.’’ he said of the militants.
“Now I’m proud to help the
security forces find them and punish
them.’’
That goodwill can be easily
strained.
Human Rights Watch says it has
information indicating thousands
have likely been arrested in the
Mosul operation. The vast majority
have not been allowed to access a
lawyer or inform their families where
they are, said Belkis Wille, the senior
Iraq researcher for HRW.
Wille said initially families from
Mosul who had a loved one detained
by Iraqi forces trusted they would
quickly be screened and released, but
as months dragged on with no news,
that mood is changing.
“They had this window to regain
the trust,’’ Wille said, “but they’re
losing that opportunity.’’
14 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

Tony Markoz | Realtor
Real Estate Done Right!
Residential & Commercial | Sell | Buy | Rent
Speak Arabic & Chaldean
متخصصونن في بيیع ووشرااء ووتأجيیر االعقاررااتت االسكنيیة وواالتجارريیة ووتقديیم
االأستشاررااتت في مجالل االأستثمارر‎٬‎‏،‏ نتكلم لغتكم االكلداانيیة وواالعربيیة.‏
Tony Markoz
markoz_group@yahoo.com
248-GOT-HOME
248-468-4663
Find the Markoz Group on Facebook
700 East Big Beaver Rd. #E, Troy, MI 48083
MARCH 2017 CHALDEAN NEWS 15

CHAI time
CHALDEANS CONNECTING
COMMUNITY EVENTS IN AND AROUND METRO DETROIT MARCH 2017
Wednesday, March 1
Event: The Chaldean Americans Chamber of Commerce Presents Industry
Outlook: Women Leaders in Chaldean Community. The event will
be held at Bird & The Bread, located at 210 S. Old Woodward Ave.,
Birmingham, MI 48009. It will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. The program
will be moderated by Vanessa Denha Garmo. Appetizers, wine and beer
will be served. Guest speakers include: Dr. Marisa Abbo from Covenant
Community Care, Renee Lossia-Acho from KW Domain Luxury
Homes International, Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Hala Jarbou
and Christine Jonna Piligian from Jonna Realty Ventures, Inc. This is a
free event for members only. If you would like to attend, please contact
Mary Kirma at 248.996. 8340.
Wednesday, March 1
Faith: At ECRC is the monthly Arabic Program with Karam Bahnam.
This program allows us to come together to give praise to God through
live music and songs, as well as to meditate on one thought from many
perspective with the goal of learning our faith and nourishing our souls.
This takes place at ECRC at 7 p.m.
LEGAL ASSISTANCE
Wednesday, March 1 and Wednesday, March 15th
The Legal Aid and Defender Association and the Oakland County Law
Library have partnered together to offer free legal aid clinics to low
income individuals at the Oakland County Law Library. The clinics are
held from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. every other Wednesday. Attendees
may register in the Law Library any time before 3:00 p.m.
The March 1st clinic will have an Arabic and Chaldean speaking
attorney available.
The clinics focus on civil law issues only for individuals and families.
Attorneys will inform individuals about court procedures and forms,
advise them of their rights, and in some cases represent them in court.
The clinics are available to residents of Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne
Counties.
Wednesday, March 1 – Sunday, April 30
Nature: Butterflies Are Blooming, Meijer Gardens in GR; www.meijergardens.org.
The annual Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming
exhibition at Meijer Gardens is the largest temporary tropical butterfly
exhibition in the nation. About 7,000 tropical butterflies from around the
world fly freely in the Tropical Conservatory.
Thursday, March 2
Faith: Join ECRC at Holy Martyrs Church for a Theology course with
Hubert Sanders. Come early for Mass at 7:00 p.m. Holy Martyrs Church
is located at 43700 Merrill Sterling Heights, MI 48314
Thursday, March 2 and Friday March 3
Fair: The Royal Oak Farmer’s Market Spring Art Fair at
the Royal Oak Farmer’s Market. Fair hours are 11 a.m. -
8 p.m. each day. This show will feature 75 jury-selected
artists, gourmet food trucks, and beer/wine. Admission
is free. For more information, visit info@theguild.org.
Saturday, March 4
Performance: It’s the Eisenhower Dance Ensemble 7:30 PM at the Detroit
Opera House located at 1526 Broadway Detroit, Michigan 48226
Monday, March 6, 13, 20, 27
Faith: At ECRC on Maple Rd and Inkster is Theology 101 at 7:00 p.m.
It is a Weekly course with Jeff Kassab, a Theology Major at Sacred Heart
Seminary.
Tuesday, March 7, 14, 21, 28
Faith: It is weekly Bible Study from 7 to 8 p.m. with his Excellency Bishop
Francis Kalabat. It takes place every Tuesday at ECRC on Maple and
Inkster in Bloomfield.
Saturday, March 11
Event: It is the Motor City Blues Festival taking place at the Fox Theatre
Detroit - Detroit, MI at 8 p.m.
Tuesday, March 21
Show: The Price is Right Live at the Fox Theater in
Detroit at 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, March 23 thru Sunday, March 26
Performance: Disney On Ice: Follow Your Heart at the
Show: Palace of Auburn Hills, Auburn Hills, MI. Show times are at 3:30
p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Friday, March 31
Music: Ignite the Spirit is being held 7 to 9 p.m. Join ECRC each month
and enjoy a night of Eucharistic Adoration, meditation, and song. You
are invited to praise the Lord through his gift of music and to grow in a
deeper love and intimacy with Him!
16 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

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MARCH 2017 CHALDEAN NEWS 17

eligion
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
25603 Berg Road, Southfield, MI 48033; (248) 351-0440
Bishop: Francis Kalabat
Retired Bishop: Ibrahim N. Ibrahim
HOLY CROSS CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
32500 Middlebelt Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48334; (248) 626-5055
Rector: Msgr. Zouhair Toma Kejbou
Mass Schedule: Weekdays, noon in Chaldean; Saturdays, 4:30 p.m. in English;
Sundays, 10 a.m. in Chaldean and Arabic, noon in English, 6 p.m., in Arabic
HOLY MARTYRS CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
43700 Merrill, Sterling Heights, MI 48312; (586) 803-3114
Rector: Fr. Manuel Boji
Parochial Vicar: Fr. Andrew Seba
Bible Study: Mondays, 7 p.m. in Chaldean; Thursdays, 8 p.m. Seed of Faith
in English;
Saturdays, 7 p.m. Witness to Faith in Arabic
Youth Groups: Wednesdays, 7 p.m. for High Schoolers
Mass Schedule: Weekdays, 9 a.m. in Chaldean; Saturdays, 5 p.m. in English;
Sundays: 9 a.m. in Chaldean and Arabic, 10:30 a.m. in English, Morning
Prayer at noon, High Mass at 12:30 p.m. in Chaldean; 6 p.m. in English
MAR ADDAI CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
24010 Coolidge Highway, Oak Park, MI 48237; (248) 547-4648
Pastor: Fr. Stephen Kallabat
Retired Priest: Fr. Suleiman Denha
Adoration: Last Friday of the month, 4 p.m. Adoration; 5 p.m. Stations of the
Cross; 6 p.m. Mass; Wednesdays, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Bible Study: Fridays, 8-10 p.m. in Arabic and Chaldean
Youth Groups: Thursdays, 7:30-9 p.m. Jesus Christ University High School
and College Mass Schedule: Weekdays, noon; Sundays, 10 a.m. in Chaldean
and Arabic, 12:30 p.m. High Mass in Chaldean
MOTHER OF GOD CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
25585 Berg Road, Southfield, MI 48034; (248) 356-0565
Administrator: Fr. Pierre Konja
Retired Priest: Fr. Emanuel Rayes
Bible Study: Mondays, 7-9 p.m. in English; Wednesdays, 7 p.m. for college
students in English
Mass Schedule: Weekdays, 10 a.m.; Tuesdays, 8:45 p.m. in English; Saturdays,
4 p.m. in English; Sundays: 8:30 a.m. in Arabic, 10 a.m. in English,
noon in Chaldean, 7 p.m. in English
OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
11200 12 Mile Road, Warren, MI 48093; (586) 804-2114
Pastor: Fr. Fadi Philip
Parochial Vicar: Hermiz Haddad
Bible Study: Thursday, 8 p.m. for ages 18-45; Friday, 8 p.m. in Arabic.
Teens 4 Mary Youth Group: Saturdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Confession: 1 hour before mass or by appointment.
Adoration: Thursday, 5-7 p.m. Chapel open 24/7 for adoration.
Mass Schedule: Monday-Wednesday, 10 a.m. in Chaldean; Thursday, 1 p.m.
in English and 7 p.m. in Chaldean; Friday 7 p.m. in Chaldean; Sunday, 10
a.m. in Arabic and 12:30 p.m. in Chaldean.
SACRED HEART CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
30590 Dequindre Road, Warren, MI 48092; (586) 393-5809
Pastor: Fr. Sameem Belius
Mass Schedule: Sundays, 10 a.m. in Arabic, 12:30 p.m. in Chaldean
ST. GEORGE CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
45700 Dequindre Road, Shelby Township, MI 48317; (586) 254-7221
Pastor: Fr. Wisam Matti
Parochial Vicar: Fr. Matthew Zetouna
Youth Groups: Disciples for Christ for teen boys, Tuesdays, 7 p.m.; Circle of
Friends for teen girls; Thursdays, 6 p.m.; Bible Study for college students,
Wednesdays 8 p.m.
Bible Study: Wednesdays, 8 p.m. in English; Fridays, 8 p.m. in Arabic
Mass Schedule: Weekdays, 10 a.m. in Chaldean; Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Adoration;
8-10 p.m. Confession; Saturdays, 6:30 p.m. in English (school year);
6:30 p.m. in Chaldean (summer); Sunday: 8:30 a.m. in Chaldean, 10 a.m. in
Arabic, 11:30 a.m. in English, 1:15 p.m. in Chaldean; 7:30 p.m. in English
Submission Guidelines The Chaldean News welcomes submissions
of obituaries. They should include the deceased’s name, date of birth
and death, and names of immediate survivors. Please also include some
details about the person’s life including career and hobbies. Due to space
constraints, obituaries can not exceed 300 words. We reserve the right
to edit those that are longer. Send pictures as a high-resolution jpeg
attachment. E-mail obits to info@chaldeannews.com, or through the mail at
30850 Telegraph Road, Suite 220, Bingham Farms, MI 48025.
ST. JOSEPH CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
2442 E. Big Beaver Road, Troy, MI 48083; (248) 528-3676
Pastor: Fr. Rudy Zoma
Parochial Vicar: Fr. Bryan Kassa
Bible Study: Mondays, 7 p.m. in Arabic; Tuesdays, 7 p.m. in English; Thursdays,
7 p.m. Chaldeans Loving Christ Youth Group for High Schoolers
Mass Schedule: Weekdays, 10 a.m. in Chaldean except Wednesdays, 10 a.m.
in Arabic
Saturdays, 6 p.m. in English and Chaldean; Sundays, 9 a.m. in Arabic, 10:30
a.m. in English, noon in Chaldean, 2 p.m. in Chaldean and Arabic, 7 p.m. in
Chaldean
Baptisms: 3 p.m. on Sundays.
ST. PAUL CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
5150 E. Maple Avenue, Grand Blanc, MI 48439; (810) 820-8439
Pastor: Fr. Ayad Hanna
Mass Schedule: Weekdays, 6 p.m.; Sundays, 12:30 p.m.
ST. THOMAS CHALDEAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
6900 Maple Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48322; (248) 788-2460
Administrator: Fr. Bashar Sitto
Parochial Vicars: Fr. Jirgus Abrahim, Fr. Anthony Kathawa
Retired Priest: Fr. Emanuel Rayes
Bible Study: Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. in Arabic
Youth Groups: Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. Girls Challenge Club for Middle Schoolers;
Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Chaldeans Loving Christ for High Schoolers;
Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. Boys Conquest Club for Middle Schoolers
Other: First Thursday and Friday of each month, 10 a.m. Holy Hour; 11
a.m. Mass in Chaldean; Wednesdays from midnight to Thursdays midnight,
adoration in the Baptismal Room; Saturdays 3 p.m. Night Vespers (Ramsha)
in Chaldean
Mass Schedule: Weekdays, 10 a.m. in Chaldean; Saturdays, 5 p.m. in
English;
Sundays, 9 a.m. in English, 10:30 a.m. in English, 12:30 p.m. in Chaldean, 2
p.m. in Arabic; 6 p.m.
Grotto is open for Adoration 24/7 for prayer and reflection
CHALDEAN SISTERS/DAUGHTERS OF MARY OUR LADY OF THE
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION ORDER
Superior: Benynia Shikwana
5159 Corners Drive
West Bloomfield, MI 48322; (248) 615-2951
CHALDEAN SISTERS/DAUGHTERS OF MARY HOUSE OF FORMATION
24900 Middlebelt Road
Farmington Hills, MI 48336; (248) 987-6731
ST. GEORGE CONVENT
Superior: Mubaraka Garmo
43261 Chardennay
Sterling Heights, MI 48314; (586) 203-8846
EASTERN CATHOLIC RE-EVANGELIZATION CENTER (ECRC)
4875 Maple Road, Bloomfield Township, MI 48301; (248) 538-9903
Director: Patrice Abona
Daily Mass: Monday-Friday 8 a.m.
Thursdays: 5:30 Adoration and 6:30 Mass
First Friday of the month: 6:30 p.m. Adoration, Confession and Mass
Bible Study in Arabic: Wednesdays 7 p.m.
Bible Study in English: Tuesdays 7 p.m.
ST. GEORGE SHRINE AT CAMP CHALDEAN
1391 Kellogg Road, Brighton, MI 48114; (888) 822-2267
Campgrounds Manager: Sami Herfy
ST. MARY HOLY APOSTOLIC
CATHOLIC ASSYRIAN CHURCH OF THE EAST
4320 E. 14 Mile Road, Warren, MI 48092; (586) 825-0290
Rector: Fr. Benjamin Benjamin
Mass Schedule: Sundays, 9 a.m. in Assyrian; noon in Assyrian and English
ST. TOMA SYRIAC CATHOLIC CHURCH
25600 Drake Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48335; (248) 478-0835
Pastor: Fr. Toma Behnama
Fr. Safaa Habash
Mass Schedule: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 6 p.m.; Sunday 12 p.m. All in
Syriac, Arabic and English
CHRIST THE KING SYRIAC CATHOLIC CHURCH
2300 John R, Troy, MI 48083; (248) 818-2886
_
_
About Lent…
The purpose of Lent is to be a
season of fasting, self-denial,
Christian growth, penitence,
conversion, and simplicity.
Lent, which comes from
the Teutonic (Germanic) word
for springtime, can be viewed
as a spiritual spring cleaning: a
time for taking spiritual inventory
and then cleaning out those
things which hinder our corporate
and personal relationships
with Jesus Christ and our service
to him.
A Prayer for Lent
Your Word reveals to us
a simple truth,
that sin entered this world
through human folly
in believing we could be like you,
and permeated history
through envy, selfishness
and greed.
Yet sin, which holds us tight
within its grasp
cannot resist a heart
that is touched
by your grace through
Jesus Christ,
cannot contend with Living Water
pouring into hearts and souls.
Your Word reveals to us
a simple truth,
that sin is defeated
and we can become
the people we were
always meant to be,
by your grace through
Jesus Christ.
18 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

obituaries
Faeza Gaggo Kada
Faeza Gaggo Kada 4/1/51-1/21/17
was a loved woman by all those who
knew her. It’s been said over and
over that her purpose was to make
all those around her happy and she
never failed; she always found her joy
through all of her loved ones. She lit
up a room with her smile and sense
of humor. Whether you knew her for
a day or for a lifetime, she welcomed
and genuinely loved you with open
arms. The gates of heaven opened
up gracefully for her on 01/21/2017.
She now remains in our hearts as an
indescribable woman who gained
her wings and they will be forever
wrapped around us from above. She
was a loving mother, wife, sister, aunt,
grandmother and friend. She will be
missed dearly by her beloved husband
Samir Kada and her kids Rafi
(Rita), Randi (Sally), Reta (Wally),
Samir (Angie), Randa (Jeff) and her
17 beautiful grandchildren. Rest In
Peace Nani, we love you!
“...If we live, we live for the Lord;
and if we die, we die for the Lord. So,
whether we live or die, we belong to
the Lord.” Romans 14:8
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MARCH 2017 CHALDEAN NEWS 19

We protect your
Home, Auto, Business
and your Loved ones.
obituaries
RECENTLY DECEASED COMMUNITY MEMBERS
Al Jamoua
Retirement Planner
Personal and
Business IRA
George Lossia
June 3, 1948 –
Feb. 5, 2017
Emil Saleem Sitto
July 1, 1954 –
Jan. 31, 2017
Bassem Hilanto
April 1, 1954 –
Jan. 31, 2017
248-816-2056 office | 248-224-3362 cell
al.jamoua@fbinsmi.com
2240 Livernois Rd., Troy
FarmBureauInsurance.com
Thair Yousif
Denha
Jan. 6, 1959 –
Jan. 28, 2017
Adel
NaimNaimi
Oct. 11, 1967 –
Jan. 27, 2017
Basima
Hannosh Abbo
July 15, 1942 –
Jan. 24, 2017
Ramzi
Odish Odish
July 1, 1940 –
Jan. 21, 2017
Hazim
Zia Attisha
Jan. 27, 1952 –
Jan. 19, 2017
Mikhail
Basho Salmo
Feb. 1, 1927 –
Jan. 19, 2017
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20 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

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MARCH 2017 CHALDEAN NEWS 21

PHOTO/IGOR ZEHL (CTK VIA AP IMAGES)
why christian priority?
President’s Executive Order consistent with campaign message
BY VANESSA DENHA GARMO
Although Congress was not aware of President
Donald Trump’s executive order
banning immigration from seven Muslim
countries prior to him signing it, his order was
consistent with the campaign promises — just one
of the many things noted by Congressman David
Trott (R) from the 11th District as the opposition
to the President continues.
Shortly after President Trump signed the executive
order, he announced that persecuted Christians
would be given priority status while trying to enter
into the United States. That statement escalated
the controversy. “There is no doubt that citizens
of Iraq and Syria, regardless of their religion, are
being persecuted, however Christians and other
religious minorities are not just being persecuted,
they are facing extinction,” said Trott. “This was
proved in 2015 when the House of Representatives
voted unanimously that religious minorities in Iraq
and Syria were undergoing genocide at the hands
of ISIS. Secretary Kerry subsequently stated that
he agreed that these groups were facing genocide.”
This acknowledgment does not to take away
from the fact that other religious and ethnic groups
are facing persecution, but in fact is a realistic
view at what is going on, on the ground in Iraq
and Syria. “Any serious refugee policy coming from
the United States has to prioritize religious minorities,”
said Trott. “These minority groups in Iraq and
Syria simply have nowhere else to go and are facing
complete expulsion.”
The United States has a history of making it
easier for the worlds most vulnerable to seek refuge
in the United States: The “Lautenberg Amendment”
was a provision of the FY1990 Foreign Operations
Appropriations Act. It required the Attorney
General to designate categories of former
Soviet and Indochinese nationals for whom less
evidence is needed to prove refugee status.
The Lautenberg Amendment has been regularly
extended in appropriations act and has also
included a new provision known as the “Specter
22 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

New legislation introduced
In this developing story, on January 13th, House
Resolution-565 was introduced. Its purpose is,
“to recognize that Christians and Yazidis in Iraq,
Syria, Pakistan, Iran, and Libya are targets of
genocide, and to provide for the expedited processing
of immigrant and refugee visas for such
individuals, and for other purposes.”
The bill, introduced by U.S. Rep. Dana
Rohrabacher, R-California, was co-sponsored by
Mike Bishop, R-Rochester Hills.
As reported by Oakland Press columnist
Mark Cavitt’s recent article, “The bill would
declare these two minority groups as targets of
genocide in Iraq, Syria, Pakistan, Iran, and Libya,”
said a spokesperson for Rep. Bishop. “ISIS
has risen to power and is engaged in genocide
Amendment.” The Specter Amendment requires
the designation of categories of Iranian nationals,
specifically religious minorities, for whom less evidence
is needed to prove refugee status.
“Also, there is a certain category for refugees
called “priority 2”, which is comprised of cases
involving persons from specific groups of special
humanitarian concern to the United States (e.g.;
religious minorities in Iran),” said Trott. “Currently
this group includes members of religious minorities;
Iraqi’s associated with the United States, and
Cuban political activists, amongst other groups.
Considering the realities on the ground, I believe it
is appropriate to include Christians and other religious
minorities in Iraq and Syria in this category.”
President Trump is doing everything he said he
was going to do yet people in the country are reacting
with such surprise and opposition. “President
Trump was adamant on the campaign trail, saying
that the United States had to do more to help religious
minorities in the Middle East,” said Trott.
Since being elected to Congress in 2014, Trott
has been a leader in Congress, advocating for then
President Obama to name a Special Advisor for
Religious Minorities in the Middle East, calling
on the Obama administration to call what was
going on to Christians and religious minorities in
the Middle East a genocide, introducing legislation
that calls on the United Nations to play a bigger
role in the crisis in the Middle East, and also supporting
legislation that would include Christians
and other genocide survivors in the “Priority Two”
(“P-2”) designation that would state that Christians
and other genocide survivors from religious
and ethnic minority communities are of “special
humanitarian concern to the United States” and
therefore able to access an overseas application interview
for the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program
without needing a referral from the UN.
“Once the President finally named a Special Advisor
for Religious Minorities in the Middle East, I
brought him on his first official domestic trip, to personally
meet with the local Chaldean community,
against those they deem unworthy – including
Christians and Yazidis. It would also create an
expedited processing of immigrant and refugee
visas for these individuals.”
HR-565 is cited as the “Save Christians
from Genocide Act”. “The rise and wrath of
ISIS is very real, and we must urgently act to
help those who have become targets because
of their faith,” said Bishop. “While the screening
process will not change, House Resolution
565 is a step in the right direction because expedited
review of these individuals can save
their lives. I’ve discussed this issue with the
Chaldean community in recent weeks, and I
am hopeful we can make a difference with this
legislation.”
not just to hear about the plight that Chaldean families
are facing in Iraq, but to see the great, proud,
successful community that we have in Southeast
Michigan,” said Trott. “I thought it was important
for the Obama administration to see first-hand just
how connected local Chaldeans-Americans are
with their heritage and history in Iraq. Providentially,
on January 27, 2017, the same day that Trump
signed his Executive Order on immigration, I sent a
letter to President Trump, with 10 other bi-partisan
members of Congress, urging him to prioritize the
plight of religious minorities in Iraq and Syria in
his foreign policy. For far too long under the previous
administration these groups were neglected and
only considered an afterthought.”
Since uprisings began in Syria in 2011, the
United States admitted a total of 14,460 Syrian
refugees. A little more than 1% of the almost
15,000 Syrian refugees admitted were religious minorities.
“This is an astonishingly disproportionate
number, which is why I commend President Trump
on prioritizing the need for religious minorities in
the U.S. refugee process,” said Trott.
The President was also clear on the need to
protect the country’s borders and keep American
safe from terrorists. “The scenes of refugees fleeing
their homes across the Middle East are heartbreaking
and, I believe, all people should be treated with
dignity and respect,” said Trott. “While I am still
reviewing the scope of the President’s Executive
Order, I believe temporarily pausing individuals
from countries compromised by terrorism is a reasonable
approach until we can properly vet visitors
from these nations.”
Trott continued to say that the reality is we currently
do not have the intelligence and resources to
properly vet these individuals, and admitting them
without proper screening puts our national security
and American lives at risk. “During this temporary
stay, the federal government must develop a robust
vetting process that allows us to continue to be
a welcoming nation, while protecting American
families and our national security,” he noted.
OPINION
Sewn into the fabric of
Southeast Michigan is
the culture of Metro Detroit’s
120,000 Chaldean Americans.
In fact, they represent
the largest concentration of
Chaldeans outside of Iraq.
While this community Rep. Dave Trott
has such a vibrant presence
in Michigan, religious freedom has become an increasingly
problematic international issue. In the
United States, religious freedom is a cornerstone
of our democracy, but it is also a fundamental human
right that should be safeguarded for all global
citizens, not just in their ancestral homelands, but
anywhere in the world.
Since coming to Congress, I have aspired to
be a voice for religious minorities in the United
States and across the globe, especially the Chaldean
community in Southeast Michigan. I was
proud to host the State Department Special Advisor
for Religious Minorities in the Middle East
in my district on his first official domestic trip, to
personally meet with the local Chaldean community,
not just to hear about the plight that Chaldean
families are facing in Iraq, but to see the
great, proud, successful community that we have
in Southeast Michigan. I thought it was important
for the Obama administration to see first-hand
just how connected local Chaldeans-Americans
are with their heritage and history in Iraq.
Additionally, I introduced legislation calling
for increased United Nations support for
religious minorities and penned a letter to the
USAID Administrator encouraging better facilitation
of aid from U.S. NGOs to embattled
populations in the Middle East.
For the last eight years, and during my first
term in Congress, we had an Administration
that was reluctant to recognize or address the
concerns of the Chaldean-American community.
However, I am hopeful that this new Administration
will be eager to work together to better
represent them.
Already this year, I started my second term
by endorsing legislation that would give religious
minorities in Iraq and Syria priority refugee status
and writing a letter to President Trump urging
him to prioritize them in the formulation of
his foreign policy.
There is no doubt that citizens of Iraq and
Syria, regardless of their religion, are being persecuted.
However, Christians and other religious
minorities are not just being persecuted, they are
facing extinction. This fact was underscored in
2015 when the House voted unanimously that
religious minorities in Iraq and Syria were undergoing
genocide at the hands of ISIS.
We cannot afford to stand idly by while the
very existence of these indigenous people is in
peril. I will continue to be a strong voice for this
community and will never stop fighting for them.
I want to reiterate once again what an honor
is it to serve Michigan’s 11th District and the
Chaldean-American community in the United
States House of Representatives. If you have any
questions or comments on the work I’m doing or
how I can better serve you, please always feel free
to contact my offices in Troy or Washington, D.C.
MARCH 2017 CHALDEAN NEWS 23

PHOTO BY
bustling birmingham
Big on business and small town charm
BY LISA CIPRIANO
There is a whole lot of business
packed in the 4.73 square
miles of Birmingham. The
relatively small Oakland County city,
with a small town feel, is home to
300 retailers. In fact, it boasts about
1.5 million square feet of retail commercial
space and 2.2 million square
feet of office space in its downtown
area alone.
“I don’t think a lot of people realize
how much commercial activity
we have going on,” said Birmingham
Mayor Mark Nickita. “We’re almost
fully occupied.”
The proud mayor thinks it speaks
volumes about his little city. “I think
that alone says that we’re business
friendly enough for all of those businesses
to want to be there,” Nickita
said. “And, I think that we’ve been
helpful as a city, to allow them to
thrive in the way that they individually
are able to.”
What makes Birmingham different
from other local business hubs is
that it’s pedestrian friendly, which allows
businesses to benefit from each
other. In fact, the city was named the
fifth most successful walkable suburb
in the U.S. by the Wall Street Journal
in 2010.
“You can walk to lunch, walk to
go see a movie, go buy a pair of shoes
and then walk to other businesses,”
explained Nickita. “We are very pedestrian
orientated and try to make
it as walkable as possible. We try to
make it as comfortable as possible
for people to make their way around
without a car by adding a number of
crosswalks and sidewalks.”
Birmingham’s businesses are
housed in a mixture of historic buildings,
modern retail and office developments.
Architect Victor Saroki
is not only a Birmingham business
owner, but he’s a big part of creating
the retail and office space that’s
helped keep business booming in Birmingham.
Over the past 33 years, Sarocki
Architecture has done more than 70
buildings in Birmingham, in addition
to custom homes in the city. “We’ve
done the Townsend Hotel, the Birmingham
Theatre, the District Lofts,
the Willitz, which is a mixed use
condominium development, and our
own office building in Birmingham
“I don’t think a lot of people realize
how much commercial activity we
have going on.”
– MARK NICKITA, BIRMINGHAM MAYOR
just to name a few,” added Saroki.
Sarocki says he was always interested
in urban development, and
chose to set-up shop in Birmingham
over much bigger cities like Detroit
and Chicago. “It’s a great community
to do that,” Saroki said. “It’s very balanced
with entertainment and shopping.
It’s upscale, walkable and we’ve
got a lot of mixed-use buildings
where people live right downtown. It
was the perfect choice.”
Saroki says the range of people
who live, work and play Birmingham
are a huge asset to doing business
there. “We have business owners, we
have developers, homeowners and
we have a phenomenal base of relationships,”
he said. “I call them the
who’s who of southeast Michigan.
They bring a lot to the table.”
Saroki also attributes his personal
success in Birmingham to the ease
of working with the city’s government.
“They are pro-business and totally
business friendly, “Saroki added.
“They get it and strive hard to find
the appropriate balance for their
24 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

usiness owners and residents.”
Attorney Randall Denha is a another
example of a business owner
that was able to spread his wings and
thrive in Birmingham. He began his
career as a partner at a large firm in
Troy. When he went out on his own
in 2010, he began by leasing office
space in Birmingham. Denha quickly
made the city his business’s permanent
home, after finding his own
building and developing it to suit his
needs. He eventually built a development
on Merrill St. that Denha &
Associates PLLC and various other
companies occupy now.
Denha chose Birmingham because
it’s centrally located near his
client base. He also wanted to be
somewhere where he, personally,
could enjoy a good work/life balance
in a walkable community with great
parks. “I don’t need to get in my car
to go shop and dine and everything
else,” explained Denha.
What he didn’t realize was how
much his clients would enjoy Birmingham,
too “They want to come
to Birmingham,” Denha said. “No
longer do they want me to go to
them. They are asking to come to the
office. Birmingham sells itself.”
Denha agrees with Saroki that
the city’s government is very conducive
to the success of its businesses,
by giving them more bang for their
buck. “They advertise for you,” noted
Denha. “Between the local chamber
of commerce and business magazines,
they’re circulating enough exposure
for you to where you feel wanted and
welcomed.”
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MARCH 2017 CHALDEAN NEWS 25

lifelong degree
A Ph.D. in Arab Studies and Doctorate in Life Experiences
BY WEAM NAMOU
Born in Basra, Professor Yasmeen
Hanoosh left Iraq in
1995, at the age of 17 to come
to the United States. Despite knowing
very little English, she was able
to attain, within 13 years, a Ph.D. in
Arab Studies from the University of
Michigan and she is currently an associate
professor of Arabic language
and literature at Portland State University.
When she first moved to America,
Hanoosh lived in the City of Southfield
and went to Southfield Lathrup
High School where she set herself up
for her first great challenge.
“I went to the library and looked
at the books and I just wanted to read
all of them,” she said. “But they were
in English, and I could barely read
English.”
She picked up one book and said
to herself that if she could read it
from cover to cover, then she has
accomplished a great thing in life. It
took her an hour to read each page
because she had to look up so many
unfamiliar words in the dictionary.
“It was a gradual and painful process
that took months to get through,
but I went through it, and I basically
taught myself English,” she said.
Aside from having to learn English,
Hanoosh encountered other difficulties
in her new home.
“Those were very interesting
times,” she said. “One usually expects
the culture shock to be with
the American culture. My bigger
shock was the Chaldean community
in America. It was neither the
Hollywood community that I saw on
television, nor the Chaldeans I knew
in Iraq.”
Hanoosh had come from a war
zone. At the end of the Iraq-Iran war,
her family’s home was bombed. They
later endured the Gulf War and the
sanctions.
“There, people were concerned
with life or death,” she said. “Here,
they were more concerned with the
symbolic meaning of Chaldeans.”
For her, these issues, although
valid, seemed irrelevant. It took her
Yasmeen takes a break.
decades to understand their relevancy
in the West.
“There was a lot of indirect pressure
to identify as non-Arab and that
became the focus, using big crosses to
indicate we’re not Arab, we’re Chaldeans,
and this became the discourse
of victimology. It’s a defensive kind
of identity. The Christians in Iraq
didn’t have the luxury to think about
these things because they had to figure
out how to survive while bombs
were going overhead. ”
At Southfield Lathrup, Hanoosh
had to cope with issues she didn’t
have to deal with in Iraq, such as selfesteem
and a sense of belonging. She
was literally a world away from Basra,
where she was confident with herself.
“Chaldeans felt they were not
white, or black, or any other group,
so they had all sorts of concerns
about their conduct,” she said. “In
Iraq, what women and men had to
do or not do was a given.”
She feels incredibly lucky to have
stumbled upon people who supported
her in her pursuits and fostered
it by sending her in the right directions.
Meanwhile, she also had to
contend with her family who didn’t
understand why she had chosen the
path she chose and were suspicious
whether it had any rewards.
“In our community, the pressure
to conform is very strong and there’s
little appreciation or understanding
of other pursuits of the mind,” she
said. “The easier solution would have
been to give up.”
But that was not in Hanoosh’s
nature. Her ambitiousness led her
to set incredibly difficult tasks for
herself. She accomplished them by
working hard and not socializing.
She achieved great status with her
degrees, several publications and a
number of honors, grants and fellowships,
including the International
Studies and Foreign Language grant
from the U.S. Department of Education,
Florence-Gould Foundation
Award, and the National Endowment
for the Arts Translation Award.
With all this success, she finally became
“legitimate.”
“My family didn’t support me to
pursue that path until they saw the
results,” she said. “Then they appreciated
the hard work.”
Today, Professor Hanoosh directs
the Arab program at Portland State
University (PSU), which teaches the
Arabic language and Middle Eastern
culture.
“In my own research, I work on
the more marginal themes within
these subjects and I pursue projects
to help the refugees,” she said.
One of her efforts is the Arab refugee
assistance program, an exchange
program that helps Iraqi refugees acclimate
to Oregon with help from
PSU students. It also helps expose
students of Arabic at PSU to the real
culture that they’re trying to study.
“There isn’t an established Chaldean
and Arabic community to help
them here,” she said. “I look at Michigan
as an example of how we can
help them integrate. There’s nothing
like that here.”
This year, Hanoosh is also leading
a community conversation throughout
Oregon through the Institute for
the Humanities’ Conversation Project.
The topic is “Arab Refugees in
our Midst: Terrorism, Bigotry and
Freedom.”
Given the adversity she went
through, Professor Hanoosh advices
the young women in the community
not to get discouraged from following
their path.
“Don’t let the larger mainstream
expectations direct your life,” she
said. “There’s a lot of diversity within
our community. There are Chaldeans
all over this country, all over this
world, pursuing their heart’s desire
and that’s oaky. When we don’t pursue
knowledge, we don’t find about
this diversity. When you pursue your
own desires, you will stumble upon
these people.”
26 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

men of faith
The genesis of men sharing their faith with others
BY KRIS HARRIS
The Genesis 4:9 Men’s Group started a little
over a year ago. However, what started
out as a few men getting together in faith,
has turned into something quite remarkable. The
group was formed with the intention to get together,
outside of church, to share faith and everyday
life in a comfortable environment. “It was some
men, church-going, Jesus lovin’ men, who came
together organically with the Holy Spirit in our
hearts,” said Fr. Pierre Administrator at Mother of
God Chaldean Church in Southfield.
One of the driving forces was to provide an
environment where men could open up and talk
freely about real issues that they face, individually,
as well as issues they see in the
community. “Men, and particularly Chaldean
men, are just not open and there are
a lot of problems in our community (like)
gambling, alcohol, drugs, marijuana, and
they’ll never admit it’s a problem,” said
Jeff Kassab, founding member. “Or, they
won’t discuss it with anybody, because
they feel we’re Middle-eastern men and
we don’t open up to people like that. Well,
we wanted to address these issues and realized
we needed a Spiritual Director, so we
approached Fr. Pierre and he’s was really
gung-ho about it. So with his support and
the support of Bishop Francis, we tried it.”
With a Spiritual Director in place, the
founders decided to meet and discuss the
importance of making the group inviting,
and without pressure, so that the men
would feel comfortable. “It was literally
over dinner and we asked, ‘what can we do for
the men in our community?’ We wanted to make
it masculine and not complicated, but very, very
simple,” explained Fr. Pierre. “You’re not going to
be asked a question or called upon to talk, so it’s
more to encourage and challenge your faith, and to
hear a topic that is relevant to you and your life.”
That dinner was just more than a year ago and
since that time, the group has flourished. “At our
first conference, we had about 50 men and it was
guys that already come to church and our own
group of friends that we reached out,” explained
Kassab. “But in a year and half, this will be our
seventh one, we’ve had up to about 150 men. So,
definitely the holy spirit has been working.”
The name, Genesis 4:9 Men’s Group, comes
from the bible and specifically the passage, “Am I
my brother’s keeper?” “You are your brother’s keeper,”
said founding member Bashar Kirma. “Whether
by blood or by close friendship that’s developed,
brotherhood is more. So, you may not know it and
you may not need it, but your brother needs you.”
The group meets at Mother of God Church on
the third Friday of every odd month, and brings
together men from all around the community. “It’s
men from the eastside and westside, some older,
some younger, some who are married and others
who are single, which was exactly the goal,” said Fr.
Pierre. “We weren’t looking for an age group, but
for all the men in our community. All are welcome
to come pray with us.”
The meetings welcome a speaker and have a
topic of discussion. However, the founders knew
that format would not last long. “After the first
Jeff Kassab, Fr. Ben Luedtke, and Bashar Kirma
three, we thought that this could be repetitious, so
we looked at how we could change it up and to
get guys to continue to come,” Kassab said. “We
thought after the meeting, when we have some social
time, we’d bring in some food and drink that’s
donated with the help from the community. It’s a
great fellowship night and it’s quality time for men
to discuss things that are bothering us. We always
reinforce to the men that we are there to empower
each other in this spiritual battle we are in.”
The founders original intention was to also
encourage men to form their own, smaller groups,
that would meet every other month. On the odd
months, when they didn’t meet, everyone would
come together for a Genesis 4:9 Men’s Group conference.
“The overall goal for the group was for men to
create their own prayer groups,” said Fr. Pierre. “It’s
important for every Christian to do something outside
of Sunday mass and for men, it can easier and
more comfortable to invite others to your house
for dinner and conversation. For the boots on the
ground guy, he can host a men’s group at his house
and can be really active in his faith and active in
inviting others to Jesus.”
The Genesis 4:9 Men’s Group helps members,
who are interested in hosting one of the smaller
groups, but aren’t sure where to start. “A lot men
aren’t sure how to do it, so the first one we’ll help
them set up,” explained Kassab. “I helped someone
last month, and there was only three of them, but
they weren’t sure what to do, so I told them I’d be
over to help. And I explained that this isn’t what
you have to do, but that these were suggestions,
and you need to do wherever the spirit takes you
that day.”
Although the conferences were the catalyst, the
founders saw that more could be achieved in these
smaller groups. “We are more about starting that
prayer group than we are about the men’s conference,”
explained Kassab. “Because that prayer group
is something that’s special between a group of guys.
They can sit at home, in a comfortable place, and
discuss things and pray. That hour, hour and half,
alone I think is a big in our community.”
The reaction and success seen in these
smaller groups have been a welcomed surprise.
“What we’re really seeing is the fruit
is not in the big men’s conference, but in
the smaller, private gatherings that are
happening,” said Kirma. “Men are thanking
us for the help starting their own group.
They feel it’s been beneficial because they
can resolve real issues. The life changing
moments, and we’ve seen them, have happened
in these private group meetings.”
One of the springboards in forming
Genesis 4:9, was a book written by Fr. Larry
Richards called, “Be A Man.” In the book,
Fr. Richards talks about being the man that
God created us to be. “In commercials and
in the media, the man is portrayed as the
weaker person, unintelligent and has no
idea what to do,” said Kirma. “Just name
the show and you see the man as the joke,
and Fr. Larry’s book goes against that. Men have
forgotten how to be men, and on top of that, men
have forgotten how to be men of God, so I think it
was a very instrumental book.”
The next conference will be on Friday, March
17th and a dynamic speaker is scheduled to speak.
“For our next conference, we got connected with
another mens’ group from the Latin church called,
Invictus Christi, so we have Darren O’Brien from
that group that will come and speak to us,” said
Kassab. “So, we’re excited.”
Men should remember that you won’t receive
any pressure from the group and that you need
only to bring an interest in the role your faith plays
in your life. “There’s no string attached,” said Fr.
Pierre. “You’re not signing up for anything. You
can come one month and not come the next. It’s
a very comfortable atmosphere and they should be
encouraged that men of their faith care about them
and want them to have a deep relationship with
Jesus.”
MARCH 2017 CHALDEAN NEWS 27

honored by the chamber
The Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce
has three award winners this year. The
awards are for Business Person of the Year,
Humanitarian of the Year, and a special tribute award
for work in aiding the Iraqi American Community.
This year’s Business Person of the Year awardwinner
is Victor Saroki. The Business Person of
the Year award spotlights individuals who are “good
corporate citizens.” They must be a distinguished
business community member or organizations who
has provided service to the Chaldean community
in areas that improve the Chaldean community’s
health and wellness, image and representative
voice in the United States and/or abroad.
Saroki was nominated by Michael Romayo
and Raad Kathawa. In their letter to the Chamber,
they noted that, “Mr. Saroki has done the
architectural and interior design work for the
Shenandoah Country Club, St. Thomas Chaldean
Catholic Church, the Chaldean Community
Foundation building, and is currently
working with Bishop Emeritus Ibrahim in the
design of the Bishop’s Library. Mr. Saroki is a
man of his word. He is trust-worthy, hard-working,
and client-centered. His dignified presence
and speech add credibility to any organization
to which he belongs. Mr. Saroki gives the Chaldean
Community a positive face to the greater
population in Southeast Michigan.”
Victor Saroki, FAIA, is the president of
Saroki Architecture, an award-winning architecture
and interiors firm in Birmingham,
Michigan, since 1983. He was admitted to the
College of Fellows of the American Institute
of Architects (AIA) in 2000 and with over 30
years in business, the firm has earned more than
60 design awards including the AIA Michigan
Firm of the Year in 2007.
A graduate of the College of Architecture & Design
at Lawrence Technological University, Saroki
received a Bachelor of Science in 1979, a Bachelor
of Architecture in 1980, and was conferred an Honorary
Doctorate of Architecture in 2008. Focusing
on the firm, he oversees all of the diverse work with
projects including retail, hospitality, mixed-use,
multiple residential, and custom residential.
Extending his expertise to the community, he has
served as a past board member with the America’s
Thanksgiving Day Parade, The Birmingham Community
House, and the Birmingham YMCA. Saroki
currently serves on the Board of Trustees at LTU and
is past president of AIA Michigan and AIA Detroit.
He also serves on the Board of Directors for the
Chaldean Community Cultural Center.
Saroki and his wife, Michelle, started the firm
together in 1983, and Michelle still plays an active
role in marketing the firm. They currently live in
Birmingham and have two children: Alex is an associate
architect at the firm, and Adriana attends
the University of Michigan.
This year’s Humanitarian of the Year awardwinner
is St. John’s Providence Health System.
The nomination was submitted by Dr. Nahid
Elyas and the Chaldean American Association for
Health Professionals (CAAHP). The CAAHP’s
nomination was seconded by Saif Kasmikha from
Midwest Legal Partners, LLC.
The Humanitarian Award spotlights community
members or organizations that have also shown
exemplary service to the Chaldean community
in areas that improve the Chaldean community’s
health and wellness, image and representative
voice in the United States and/or abroad.
In the letters received, it was noted that, “St.
John Providence (SJP) is committed to delivering
compassionate, personalized care to all with special
Victor Saroki
Almanhal Al Safi
attention to persons living in poverty and those
most vulnerable. This philosophy of care underscores
their heritage as a faith-based health system
offering patients so much more than medicine.”
It was also noted that, “each year St. John
Providence provides an estimated $200 million in
uncompensated care to our community annually.
Through partnerships, coalitions, and program development
and support, St. John Providence has
created innovative programs to increase access to
healthcare services and empower individuals to
make informed health choices. The Chaldean
community has benefited greatly from programs
and efforts of St. John Providence to make our
community a healthier and better place.”
To ensure culturally competent care of the
Chaldean community, St. John Providence (SJP)
provides or sponsors numerous programs and services,
within the hospital setting, and in the Chaldean
community. This outreach includes the
sponsorship of two weekly radio programs that
highlight health topics using various Chaldean and
other highly quality SJP physicians and clinicians.
These shows have been instrumental in increasing
the community’s awareness and understanding
of practicing preventive health. In recent years,
SJP has made available in-patient services to the
Chaldean patients and their families that includes,
Middle Eastern food options on the menu, Arabic
TV channels in patient rooms, Arabic signage
throughout Oakland Hospital, and MARTI, which
is an electronic mobile translation services for the
patients with language limitations.
SJP has hosted an annual cultural diversity day
with employees to educate them on the Chaldean
culture. As the baby-friendly designated health
system, SJMOH established a mom-to-mom support
group and breast feeding classes for Chaldean
women. This project promotes breastfeeding
as an important element in the healthy development
of the baby and mother. St. John
Macomb Oakland Hospital has established a
prenatal and child birth education classes, specifically
aimed to pregnant women and mothers
in the Chaldean community. SJP has also provided
mental health services through Eastwood
Clinics, which are geared towards treatment of
recent immigrants who may have post and premigration
challenges.
St. John Providence has worked tirelessly to
help the Chaldean community both locally and
abroad. They have been the only health system
who has donated time, staff, services and money
to ensure local projects can be successfully implemented
to help the community. They donate
$75,000 of lab work yearly to support Project
Bismutha, which is a program that provides free
medical care to low income and indigent members
of the Chaldean community. They have
partnered with MERCI (Medical Emergency
Relief for Christian Iraqis) in providing medical services
and supplies to the displaced Iraqi Christians.
They work to promote education for both the Chaldean
layperson and Chaldean medical community.
St. John Providence has been the major sponsor
of the annual Chaldean American Association for
Health Professionals (CAAHP) CME conference
since its inception. The annual event educates clinicians
on innovations in health care, which has a
direct correlation with the provision of high quality
care. St. John Providence also sponsors community
teaching events to help patients communicate with
their medical providers, understand their condition,
medications and treatment, as well as refer patients
to resources within the community. They have
also partnered with CAAHP to sponsor an annual
health screening program at the local churches to
promote preventive care.
The third awardee recognized is Almanhal Al
Safi, the Consul General for Iraq in Detroit. He received
a special tribute from the Chamber for his
work in aiding the Iraqi American Community.
28 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

WHAT’S YOUR NUMBER?
There are special numbers that we always look forward to.
We picked them. We own them. We love them. We play them.
They’re our Daily 3&4 numbers.
Try your luck on Michigan Lottery Daily 3&4 games. Daily 3 wagers are 50¢ and $1, and you can
win up to $500; a $1 wager for Daily 4 has a top prize of $5,000. Drawings are twice a day, seven
days a week at 12:59 pm and 7:29 pm. So, visit your favorite Lottery retailer and play Daily 3&4.
Odds of winning: Daily 3: Straight: 1 in 1,000; 3-Way Box: 1 in 333; 6-Way Box: 1 in 167; 1-Off Straight: 1 in 1,000; 1-Off One Digit: 1 in 167. Daily 4: Straight: 1 in 10,000; 4-Way Box: 1 in 2,500; 6-Way Box: 1 in 1,666;
12-Way Box: 1 in 833; 24-Way Box: 1 in 416; 1-Off Straight: 1 in 10,000; 1-Off One Digit: 1 in 1,250. Knowing your limits is always the best bet. Call the Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline for confidential help at 1-800-270-7117.
MARCH 2017 CHALDEAN NEWS 29

ARTS & entertainment
Artistic
Therapy
BY WEAM NAMOU
Cassidy Kassab
Always having been drawn to
service and art, Cassidy Kassab
found a way to naturally
combine her two passions into the
career of art therapy. The 25-year-old
Michigan native received her BA in
Studio Art from Oakland University
and is currently working on her MA
in Art Therapy at the School of the
Art Institute of Chicago.
“You can use art in the healing
profession,” Kassab said.
Art therapy is a method of psychotherapy,
involving the encouragement
of free self-expression, through
painting and other artistic ways. Clients,
facilitated by the art therapist,
use the creative process and the resulting
artwork to explore their feelings,
reconcile emotional conflicts,
foster self-awareness, manage behavior,
reduce anxiety, and increase
self-esteem. A goal in
art therapy is to improve or
restore a client’s functioning
and his or her sense of
well-being.
“People don’t go into
this field to make money,”
she said. “They go into it
because it’s truly who they
are, it’s a calling. You have
to want to serve people.”
Although contemporary
art therapy is a fairly new
practice, art has been used
since the beginning of human history
as a medium for communicating
thoughts and ideas. The oldest cave
painting was found in El Castillo cave
in Cantabria, Spain and dates back
40,000 years to the Aurignacian period.
Though researches are uncertain
as the exact purpose of the cave drawings,
it has been theorized that they
were likely used as part of religious
ceremonies or to reach out to others
in the area.
The youngest of four children,
Kassab was born in Rochester to
Sam and Faye. Being open-minded
and having a healthcare business
themselves, her parents were very
supportive of her career choice, although
they didn’t fully
understand it.
“Eventually, they understood
that it’s a counseling
profession,” she said. “It’s
important to acknowledge
that our Chaldean Assyrian
Babylonian ancestors have
an extensive history of an
art practice. It’s unfortunate
that art is not as respected
or as valued in our culture,
and in a lot of cultures, not
just in the Middle East.
That’s because art is a luxury.”
She explained that when people
come from Iraq to the United States,
for instance, their life’s circumstances
cause them to focus on ways they
could feed and support their family,
raise their children and put them
through college. Those who finally
have the opportunity to go to college,
will often choose careers that will
help support their family.
But Kassab points out that, regardless
of the vocation one chooses, creativity
is an important skill than can
increase one’s IQ, helps calm the brain,
and has many other beneficial factors.
According to Hennessey & Amabile
(2010), creativity is a concept
Clockwise from top left: Passion; Padre Pio; Sacred Heart; Art on display; Agnus Dei.
of individual differences, which is
intended to explain why some people
have higher potential to provide
new solutions to old problems than
others. It leads people to change the
way they think about things and is
conceived as the driving force that
moves civilization forward.
Kassab’s main passion is digital
media and graphic illustration, but
she also works with mixed media
including ink, watercolor, oil, and
acrylic paint. She works heavily with
religious and spiritual concepts, as
well as political and human rights
activism. Her most recent body of
work is entitled Building Relationship
where she created a survey and
submitted it to all the therapists and
clients at DePaul Family and Community
Services, asking them, “What
is it that helps you feel connected to
your client or therapist?”
The therapists and clients responded
similarly. Their main interests
in having a strong relationship
included comfort, humor, understanding
and empathy, strength and
perseverance together, and affirmation
and validation.
Kassab said the most challenging
part of art therapy is burnout, which
happens with a lot of mental health
professionals.
“You’re not only using your mind
and skills, but all of your senses to
deliver a service,” she said. “It can
at times be emotionally draining, so
I learned to take care of myself in
a very intense way in order to constantly
be available, with compassion,
toward those I work with.”
Kassab plans to return to her
community in Michigan, after she
graduates this May, and start a type
of arts ministry.
“I’m interested in creating a program
for refugees and doing traumabased
work for children and adolescence,”
she said. “When you are
dealing with trauma, it’s very difficult
to assimilate to a new country based
on what you experienced.”
To serve this community best, she
wants to learn Arabic and Sureth so
she can better communicate with the
refugees.
“They say that if you can understand
poetry in another language,
you can provide therapy,” she said.
“That’s because if you can understand
the nuances of the poem, then
you can understand the nuances of
another culture.”
30 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

chaldean on the STREET
What do you think of President Trump
giving Christians Priority Status?
President Trump’s decision on immigration has caused some controversy and there
have been strong opinions from many communities around the country. We caught
up with members of our community to get their reaction.
Dillon Sana, 24, Ann Arbor:
I truly believe that one cannot make
generalizations about any group of
people for any reason, this includes
religion. If Trump wants to secure our
borders and make the immigration process
safer, then he should impose the
“temporary ban” on ALL immigrants
coming to the country. Evil can come
from anywhere, regardless of religion.
Azal Arabo, 20, White Lake:
As a Chaldean I can appreciate the
president making our people a priority.
I love that he’s looking out for Catholics
but being that Isis has killed more muslims
than Catholics, I think it should be
an even ratio of muslims to Catholics
because they are also seeking refuge
from Isis. People are people despite
their religion.
Noor Matti, 32, Erbil, Iraq:
Depleting our population from its homeland
is not a long term solution. If President
Trump wants to help our people,
then empower us in our own lands, so
that our ethnicity, language, churches
don’t disappear.
Samer Paulus, 22, Phoenix, Arizona:
President Trump giving priority to Christian
refugees in no way, shape or form
resembles religious discrimination towards
Muslims. Rather, it simply gives
priority to a group of people who are
being persecuted to a greater degree
(Christianity is the most persecuted religion
in the world today). Furthermore,
the religion of Islam holds deeply many
views that are incompatible with our
western values, which are based on
Judeo-Christian principles. Progressive
politics is based on collectivism, regarding
people as members of groups
(religion, race, gender) rather than as
individuals, with virtue being based on
the extent of oppression. Since they
are a minority, Muslims are perceived
by progressives to be more oppressed,
and thus more virtuous, and this is the
source of the fictional immigration controversy
that exists.
Ranna Abro, 29, Rochester Hills:
Giving Christians priority status is definitely
not a fair policy and neither is favoring
African Americans and other minorities
into universities through Affirmative
Action. It’s called positive discrimination.
It’s an unfortunate policy, but the
courts deem it necessary because racism
exists. Though the circumstances
are different, are we generalizing and
assuming Islamic extremism by giving
Christians priority status? Yes, we are.
It’s not right. However, there is no denying
that Christians are being marginalized
and discriminated against all over
the Middle East, and this unfortunate
policy may be necessary to be fair.
Matt Seba, 21, Troy:
I feel as though Trump’s prioritization
of Christian’s in war-ridden countries
can lead towards further discrimination
of other victimized minorities. Yes,
it is wonderful that he recognizes the
Christians and I do agree something
should be done to protect them from
further suffering, but I still do not believe
the administration has a firm grasp
on differentiating Christians from other
religious groups. The focus should be
on eliminating the radical islamists so
that our families in the homeland can
live, work, and pray in peace. I look
forward to a Trump presidency built on
strength, security, and success.
Matthew Marroki, 17, Sterling Heights:
I recognize the danger many Christian
refugees are facing; however, this does
not justify ignoring others in need of
safety. This type of policy endangers the
lives of thousands of Muslim refugees,
and it also poses a threat to the American
people. The rhetoric our president
has been using only fuels ISIS with ammunition
for recruiting supporters. I fear
that if he continues this type of speech,
we will further escalate the issue and it
will lead to more ISIS terror attacks on
US soil and abroad. As Christians, we
should be empathetic to all of the people
involved who seek safety, not just those
of the same faith.
Wisam Naoum, 28, Sterling Heights:
No one can dispute the fact that our
people have suffered tremendously at
the hands of Islamic extremism. And
it certainly makes sense that victims
of genocide, namely Suraye and Yazidis,
would get preferential treatment in
cases of asylum. But, when you package
this type of “preference” with what
looks and smells like a ban on Muslims,
it becomes problematic. Frankly, turning
away desperate refugees fleeing
war and death because of their religion
just doesn’t sit well with me. After all,
I was taught to treat others with the
same compassion and love that I would
hope to receive in my time of need.
MARCH 2017 CHALDEAN NEWS 31

ECONOMICS and enterprise
Brothers
Bring Spark
to Electrical
Contracting
Business
BY PAUL NATINSKY
Mixing business with brotherhood has been
a recipe for success for electrical contractors
David and Derek Curioca.
The brothers joined 15 years ago to launch DC
Illuminations from a 1,200-square-foot house in
Keego Harbor and now employ more than 30 electricians,
an office staff of 4 individuals, a warehouse
manager, and 16 trucks to service more than 2,000
customers from their Sylvan Lake location.
“We built the company with word of mouth,
and no advertising,” said Derek. “This is first generation
company built from scratch. I’m the Electrician
and my brother David is the back office and
business guy. We grew and never advertised.”
Still, it was tough going at first. In 2002, the
brothers started out calling people they knew to
solicit small jobs and build trust. They grew slowly
and had some difficult stretches early on. “We
eventually hired a few employees and got another
truck, but it was not easy,” said David. “There were
many weeks when we did not take paychecks in order
to pay our employees. Now, we laugh about it.”
Finally, about four years in, they had enough
business to leave the Keego Harbor house and
move into an industrial park in Sylvan Lake.
When they joined in business, the brothers
came from very different places. Derek began
working as an electrician when he was 20, putting
in 8,000 hours to earn his Journeyman’s designation
and another 4000 hours to become a Master
Electrician. Meanwhile, David, who has a degree
in finance, worked at the Morgan Stanley investment
firm for five years.
The brothers say there was no, one, watershed moment
that brought them together in business. “First
off, we have always been very close,” said Derek. “We
hang out outside of work and are great at reading each
other’s mind. We’re able to criticize and correct each
other without getting mad about it, because we know
it’s all for the betterment of the company.”
The pair share an office with side-by-side desks.
David still spends most of his time in the office.
He manages the back-end business functions, assigning
service calls to employees and heads up the
Parking lot lighting division. He also makes time
to meet with customers, which puts him in the field
from time to time. “David knows what it takes to
grow a company, manage relationships and handle
finances,” said Derek.
Derek logs about one to two days in the office
preparing estimates per week, and spends the
rest of his time working in the field, with foremen
and with customers. “Derek can wire up a house
or commercial building with his eyes closed,” said
David. “He is a great people person.”
The company provides a full range of services.
Derek says project range from simple residential
wiring to commercial projects that include office
buildings, hotel and high-rise buildings and shopping
centers.
In 2007, Derek said, the company scored a hotel,
which proved to be one of the company’s first
really big jobs. He said he and his crew worked
until 2 or 3 a.m. for weeks at a time, and worked
nearly 75 days straight on the project.
But such dedication has paid off. David said
once ensconced in the industrial park, the company
moved three times into bigger spaces to accommodate
its growth. And they show no signs of
slowing down.
The brother attribute their success to the company
motto which says, “Customers first and to do
whatever you can to please the customer.”
DC Illuminations is located at 2671 Sylvan Lake
Road, in Sylvan Lake. They can be reached by phone
at (248) 681-6458, online at dcilluminations.com or
by email at info@dcilluminations.com.
32 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

PRESENTS
CHALDEAN AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
14TH ANNUAL AWARDS DINNER
FRIDAY, APRIL 28, 2017
6:00 PM - 11:00 PM
SHENANDOAH COUNTRY CLUB
5600 WALNUT LAKE ROAD, WEST BLOOMFIELD, MICHIGAN 48323
SPECIAL GUESTS
Ambassador Fareed Yasseen, Embassy of the
Republic of Iraq along with several other local,
national and international dignitaries.
HONORING
Humanitarian of the Year
St. John Providence
Business Person of the Year
Victor Saroki
President of Saroki Architecture
Special Tribute
Almanhal Al Safi
Consulate General of the Republic of Iraq in Detroit
Victor Saroki
Almanhal Al Safi
OPENING REMARKS
Honorable Rick Snyder
Governor, State of Michigan (invited)
HONORARY CHAIR
William R. Wild
Mayor of Westland, 2017 SEMCOG Regional
Ambassador, US Conference of Mayors Michigan
Ambassador and Board of Directors for the Michigan
Municipal Risk Authority
EVENT TICKETS
$175 per person
$1,500 for a table of 10
Several sponsorship opportunities
DINNER COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Dr. Nahid Elyas
St. John Providence
Paul Jonna
The Taubman Company
Mark Sarafa
Pop Daddy Popcorn
HOST COMMITTEE
Jason Abro
Ian Bolton
Eman Jajonie-Daman
Matt Loria
Vanessa Mona
SPONSORED BY
For sponsorship information contact Mary at 248-996-8340 or mkirma@chaldeanchamber.com

DOCTOR is in
Halitosis: Beyond bad breath
Halitosis is simply defined
as bad breath.
Amongst existing
patients, it is a strong motivator
for acceptance of dental
treatment, particularly
in the area of periodontal
(gum) disease which is
known to be a major source
of halitosis.
It is thought that disorders
of the oral cavity cause
up to 85% to 90% of all the
cases of halitosis. Some of
the more common causes are: a dry
mouth due to lack of flow of saliva,
denture wearing, food retention,
poor oral hygiene, dental decay,
gingivitis, gum disease, an unclean
tongue, and smoking. Most of the
previously mentioned conditions
have one thing in common: an increase
in bacteria in the oral cavity.
These bacteria produce compounds
DR. MAYCE
KACHI-GEORGE
SPECIAL TO THE
CHALDEAN NEWS
that are collectively called
“Volatile sulphur-containing
compounds”. These are
the compounds responsible
for bad breath.
In periodontally healthy
patients, the primary cause
of malodor is the surface
of the tongue, because the
coating on it contains dead
epithelial cells, bacteria,
and food debris. In patients
with periodontal disease, the
pockets around the teeth
have proven to be an additional reservoir
for odor producing bacteria.
To manage halitosis, the following
steps are recommended:
Improve oral hygiene techniques:
in addition to conventional brushing
and flossing, daily irrigation of the
oral tissues with an alcohol-free and
sugar-free rinse, along with tongue
scraping is recommended. Tongue
de-plaquing (scrapping) is best
achieved through the use of implements
designed exclusively for use
on the tongue rather than brushes
designed for teeth.
Control Periodontal (gum) disease.
Perform all necessary dental care:
restore all existing areas of decay,
closing open contacts between teeth,
extracting all non-restorable teeth,
correcting defects like overcontoured
fillings and crowns that are
impossible to clean.
Increase salivary flow: through
eating smaller meals (snacks) more
frequently, drinking water, chewing
sugarless gum.
Special home care instructions
for denture and partial wearers: it
is important to rinse the appliances
after every meal. A good cleaning
should be done at least once in the
afternoon, and then prior to soaking
them in a disinfecting solution for
the evening. Dentures and partials
should never be worn during sleep
when salivary flow is decreased for it
will enhance the process that causes
bad breath.
Here’s to wishing you all a minty
fresh smile! Cheers!
Dr. Mayce Kachi-George is a dentist
from Enamel Dental Studio, in
Farmington Hills.
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34 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

CHALDEAN COMMUNITY
FOUNDATION
Help Wanted!
Please consider hiring one of
our many new Americans.
More than 30,000 Chaldean refugees have migrated to Michigan since 2007. Many
possess the skills and determination to work hard for you and your organization.
The Chaldean Community Foundation (CCF) has a bank of resumes
of candidates qualified to do a variety of jobs. To inquire about hiring a
New American, call or email Elias at 586-722-7253 or
elias.kattoula@chaldeanfoundation.org.
Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce
and Chaldean Community Foundation
30850 Telegraph Road, Suite 200
Bingham Farms, MI 48025
248-996-8340
www.chaldeanchamber.com
Chaldean Community Foundation
Sterling Heights Office
3601 15 Mile Road
Sterling Heights, MI 48310
586-722-7253
www.chaldeanfoundation.org
MARCH 2017 CHALDEAN NEWS 35

classified listings
Cummings, McClorey, Davis & Acho, P.L.C.
Attorneys and Counselors at Law
BUSINESS & BUILDING FOR SALE
LIQUOR STORE IN MACOMB
COUNTY FOR SALE
Building includes tenant w/ rental
income & long term lease. Asking
$499,000. Terms available for qualified
buyer. Contact Ziad, 248-224-3000
HELP WANTED
HIRING IMMEDIATELY
New Banquet Hall Opening March in
Sterling Heights. Call for Interview.
248-835-5077 248-703-8333
SHOPPING CENTER FOR SALE
25,000 SQUARE FEET on
4+ acres next to McDonalds in St.
Joseph County. Asking $249,000.
L/C Available. Contact Wally,
248-930-9112.
ADVERTISE IN OUR
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
FOR AS LITTLE AS
$
85 PER AD
248-996-8360
Ronald G. Acho
Norman E. Richards (Gene)
ESTATE PLANNING AND ELDER LAW
The Estate Planning and Elder Law Practice Group at CMDA
offers a broad range of estate planning services. Each client is
unique, and we take the time to understand their specific needs
to create a plan that ensures assets accumulated during their
lifetime are protected and distributed appropriately.
• Wills and Trusts
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Administration
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A TTORNEYS & C O UNSELORS AT LAW
• Guardianships and
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As an award-winning
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Group, Vanessa Denha
Garmo has an adaptable
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trained members of her
team on various writing
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“You have to know how
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you want the media to
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— Vanessa Denha Garmo
FREE 30-MINUTE MEDIA MAKE-OVER
Vanessa Denha-Garmo is offering a free 30-minute consultation for any subscriber to the
Chaldean News. It’s a Media Make-over, customized to provide feedback on a wide-range
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36 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

PROFESSIONALS PROFESSIONALS PROFESSIONALS PROFESSIONALS
Experience • • Knowledge • • • Personal • Service
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CHALDEAN
AMERICAN
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FOUNDATION
Tony Markoz
markoz_group@yahoo.com
248-GOT-HOME
700 East Big Beaver Rd. #E, Troy, MI 48083
CHALDEAN
AMERICAN
CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE
CHALDEAN COMMUNITY
FOUNDATION
SANA NAVARRETTE
MEMBERSHIP MANAGER
SANA NAVARRETTE
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30850 TELEGRAPH ROAD, SUITE 200
BINGHAM FARMS, MI 48025
TEL: (248) 996-8340 CELL: (248) 925-7773
FAX: (248) 996-8342
snavarrette@chaldeanchamber.com
www.chaldeanchamber.com
www.chaldeanfoundation.org
Twitter: @ChaldeanChamber
Instagram: @ChaldeanAmericanChamber
30850 TELEGRAPH ROAD, SUITE 200
BINGHAM FARMS, MI 48025
TEL: (248) 996-8340 CELL: (248) 925-7773
FAX: (248) 996-8342
snavarrette@chaldeanchamber.com
www.chaldeanchamber.com
www.chaldeanfoundation.org
Twitter: @ChaldeanChamber
Instagram: @ChaldeanAmericanChamber
Tell them you saw it in the Chaldean News!

event
1
3
4
2
5
1. Cassidy Najor,
Grace Saroki,
Madelin Suroweic,
Grace Shina inside
the Ancient Mesopotamia
Gallery
(left to right)
2. 8th Graders,
parents with teachers
Courtney Nixon
and Kimberly Kerwin
pose at the entrance
of the museum
3. Ashtyn Loussia
and his grandmother
looking at a
depiction of Telkaif
4. Sr. Nada explains
a photo of Alquosh
to students Kristen
Suero and Chloe
Kilano
5. Mary Romaya
takes students on
a tour
6. Anthony Hakim
and Angelo Yono
read about an
exhibit
7. Kaya Sanan talks
to students on
the tour with Mary
Romaya
8. Delilah Coe and
Avery Swickard read
about the history of
Chaldeans
9. Sr. Neda next
to an exhibit that
depicts everyday life
in Telkaif during that
time period
10. Yousif Yatooma,
Ms. Courtney Nixon,
Merell Jwaida, Anthony
Hakim, Katie
Kim, Mrs. Kimberly
Kerwin, Danny Scott
and Angelo Yono
6
7
8
inside the museum
PHOTOS BY VANESSA DENHA GARMO
9
St. Fabian Catholic School 8th graders with a few of their parents and teachers
Courtney Nixon and Kimberly Kerwin were the first group of students to visit the
Chaldean Cultural Center set to open to the public soon. They were the test tour
group who walked through the museum and were given a tour by Executive Director
Mary Romaya. Also, Kaya Sanan from Sanan Media gave a brief presentation and
talked to the students about their interest in the museum and their feedback about the
exhibits. The Chaldean Cultural Center is located inside Shenandoah Country Club
in West Bloomfield Michigan. The cultural center was featured on the cover the
2016 December issue of the Chaldean News.
10
38 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2017

fresh. family.
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