GUEST column Business
GUEST column Business conference demonstrates chamber prestige Politics, the economy, health care and jobs were on the minds of the attendees of the fifth annual Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce Business Luncheon on October 15. The all-star panel did not disappoint on those issues or their thoughts about leadership and the future of Michigan (see related story, page 22). Underpinning the panel discussion is a story maybe just as important. This story is about how the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce has taken its place as one of the most successful chamber groups in the state. No other chamber group has had similar percentage growth in the membership, programs or events in the last five years. Events have always been well attended since the Chamber was founded in 2004 but more striking than the attendance figures is the quality of the events themselves. Last month’s Chamber Luncheon featured the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Attorney General of Michigan, the Wayne County Michael G. Sarafa SPECIAL TO THE CHALDEAN NEWS Executive and the Chairman and CEO of a -billion, publicly traded company. It was moderated by Murray Feldman, the local business newsman and journalist. It was attended not just by members of the Chaldean community but by a host of other businesspeople and professionals totaling about 300. The Chamber’s success is also an indication of the increasing importance of Chaldean-owned businesses in the economy of Southeast Michigan. As traditional Michigan industries have suffered and wreaked economic havoc down the supply chain, the entrepreneurial acumen and businessto-business potential of the Chaldean community has become more important to those seeking to grow and trade in the area. While the Chamber does much to support these businesses, perhaps its more important role has been to simply highlight that they exist, that they are successful and that they are mostly willing to play an important role in the business, civic and political life of our state and region. Photo by Ramiz Romaya Local media swarm Andy Dillon after the panel discussion. As traditional Michigan industries have suffered, the entrepreneurial acumen of the Chaldean community has become more important. This is important work. The Chamber founders, board and staff deserve credit for their efforts. The community should be proud and supportive. Michael Sarafa is president of the Bank of Michigan and a co-publisher of The Chaldean News. 24 CHALDEAN NEWS NOVEMBER 2009
leaving a legacy Film documents an immigrant’s journey into public service By Vanessa Denha-Garmo With the articulation of an educated man, the words of a wise man and the energy of a young man, Wadie Deddeh thanked a crowd of more than 300 people at Shenandoah Country Club last month who viewed a documentary about his life as a California statesman. In the film, “The Lion’s Journey: The Story of Wadie P. Deddeh,” viewers learned that Deddeh, who was born in 1920 in Telkaif, Iraq, spent 27 years of his professional career as an elected leader. He retired in 1993 as a California state senator. In the 60-minute documentary, we also learned the Deddeh became the highest-ranking Iraqi to hold public office in the California State Legislature. Most notably, he authored the legislation that formed the California Department of Transportation, earning his recognition as the “Father of Caltrans,” and also helped to bring the trolley system to San Diego. In 2006, Caltrans named its new headquarters in San Diego in his honor. “This film is not about me,” said Deddeh. “This film is about America and the opportunity this country provided to a poor immigrant. It is the greatest country in the world.” After a brief history lesson, this man of great faith explained the importance of thanking God for his blessings and opportunities he was given. He also expressed gratitude to the Chaldean community both in Detroit and San Diego for their years of support. The inspiring documentary was produced by Emmy-Awardwinning filmmaker Bonni Rooney. She worked closely with Deddeh’s wife Mary Lynn while researching and collecting artifacts for the film. Deddeh built a reputation as a man of integrity – a man who stands by his word. His professional career can be summed up in the tagline of the documentary: “A politician thinks about the next election, but a true statesman thinks about the next generation.” “I am honored that all of you came out tonight to view this film,” Deddeh told the Shenandoah crowd. “I hope this serves as a message to all of you young people that in America, anything is possible.” Clockwise from top: Wadie Deddeh with his great nephew, Alan Bodiya. The man of the hour with Mar Ibrahim Ibrahim. Wadie Deddeh and his wife, Mary Lynn, arrive at Shenandoah. The event was organized by Auday Arabo, the firm’s executive producer, who recently moved to Michigan from California and is now with the Associated Food and Petroleum Dealers. He served as the evening’s master of ceremonies. Helping him were Deddeh’s great nieces, Anita Bodiya, M.D. and Karen Denha. The Chaldean American Ladies of Charity provided the popcorn, candy and refreshments. The event served as a fundraiser for Iraqi refugees now living in Michigan. The film will be broadcast on MBN TV; check your local listings. The DVDs are available for purchase. To view the firm’s trailer, visit http://www. imdb.com/video/wab/vi4292674073/. NOVEMBER 2009 CHALDEAN NEWS 25
