NOTEworthy [Local]
NOTEworthy [Local] COLUMNIST BLASTS PARTY STORE RAIDS “Politicians should be smart enough to understand that repeated inspections of a certain kind of establishment — party stores owned predominantly by Chaldeans — invite charges of discrimination and harassment,” reads in part a column by Detroit News columnist Daniel Howes published February 25. Howes described a recent raid on a Chaldean-owned party store, one of nearly 80 so far this year by Detroit police officers, on top of 314 raids last year. Police have issued 28 citations for selling alcohol to minors (compared to 128 last year) and 130 more tickets for ordinance violations, such as selling expired food or loose cigarettes, Howes said. “Business owners who want to stay in business should be smart enough to know that flouting the law by peddling bad meat to grandmothers or selling booze to kids or turning a blind eye to drug trafficking invites trouble — crime, legal hassles and prosecution,” Howes wrote. “For outsiders, the police actions and City Hall’s support of them reek of bigotry and a hostility to business. For Detroiters wearied by crime, the raids are evidence of misplaced priorities. It’s time for a rethink,” he concluded. MEN’S RETREAT PLANNED A spiritual weekend retreat is scheduled for April 29-May 1 at the Manresa Jesuit Retreat House in Bloomfield Hills. “The retreat provides an ideal setting for prayer, reflection and spiritual renewal with a group of other committed seekers,” said participant Dave Nona. “If you are stressed out or feeling burdened with the problems of daily life, consider making the retreat.” The retreat begins at 6 p.m. Friday, April 29 and concludes at noon on Sunday, May 1. Learn more by calling Nona at (248) 932-9333. BOOK DETAILS ANCIENT AKITO A historical play that details the true events of Akito — the Chaldean Babylonian new year some 3,000 years ago — will be celebrated at an April 5 book signing. Marshal Garmo wrote the play in Arabic; English translations are also available. The story showcases daily life of Babylonians during that time, and tells the true story of how Enlil, a gardener, became king in 1847 BC, a reign that lasted 24 years. The party takes place at 8:30 p.m. at the Palace of Southfield. Admission is , which includes refreshments and a copy of the book in Arabic or English. Contact marshal@grace-title.com. Insam Susan Kattula Yasmine C. Isshak PEOPLE Insam Susan Kattula is running for a seat on the Board of Education for Warren Consolidated Schools. The election takes place May 3. Kattula is active in the Warren school district, serving on many committees and boards, and is president of the PTO at Hatherly Elementary School. If her bid is successful, she will be the first Chaldean-American woman to serve on the Warren School Board. To put up a sign at your home or business, call (586) 978-2141. For campaign contributions, send a check made out to Committee to Elect Insam Susan Kattula, 5310 Dickson, Sterling Heights, MI 48310.... Yasmine C. Isshak has been named assistant prosecuting attorney by Macomb County Prosecutor Eric Smith. Isshak is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Wayne State University School of Law. She is currently assigned to District Court prosecutions. PROFESSIONALISM It’s not something that ends every day at five. It’s turning all your talents to one purpose serving your clients. It’s knowing the field. And it’s knowing that every client is unique. It’s being efficient. And creative. It’s going beyond the conventional to find the best solution. And it’s always demanding. If you’re looking for a financial advisor who shares your commitment to professionalism, come to us. The Emrick Investment Group of Wachovia Securities Robert Stephens, First Vice President – Investments Ron Emrick, First Vice President – Investments 255 E. Brown Street • Birmingham, MI 48009 248-433-8588 • 800-521-9463 Uncommon Wisdom Wachovia Securities, LLC, member NYSE and SIPC. ©2005 Wachovia Securities, LLC 60107 3/05 10 CHALDEAN NEWS APRIL 2005
PHOTO BY MATT CALLOW DIA HOSTING CHALDEAN EVENT Friday, April 29 is a special night for the community as the Detroit Institute of Arts hosts its first-ever Chaldean Friday at the DIA. The DIA is open from 10 a.m.- 9 p.m. on Fridays. The museum is located at 5200 Woodward Avenue. Admission is by a suggested donation of adults, children. Visit www.dia.org. SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES 6-8:30 p.m. Drop In Workshop: Mosaics Student Lunchroom Make pictures and designs from a variety of art materials and found objects. 6 & 7:30 p.m. Greatest Hits Guided Tours Tours meet in Join a half-hour guided tour featuring “American and Great Hall, 2nd level European Highlights and “Four Continents & the Ancient World.” 6 & 7:30 Short Film: “Our Story: Chaldeans in Detroit” Rivera Court Chaldean families who found success in Detroit. 6:30 & 8 p.m. Performance: Rafid Sawa Happiness Band Rivera Court Enjoy a festive atmosphere with an exciting blend of Chaldean melodies and rhythm. 6-8:30 p.m. Artist’s Demonstration: Bas-relief Sculpting Kresge Court Masood Frances Thomas Yaldo demonstrates his techniques for sculpting in bas-relief, inspired by his Byzantine ancestors. 6 & 7:30pm Storytelling: May Denha Lecture Hall A lively children’s program. APRIL 2005 CHALDEAN NEWS 11
