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The newsletter of the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce

CHALDEAN COMMERCE

BOJI AND LEVIN HONORED ATANNUAL AWARDS DINNERBOJI AND LEVIN HONORED ATANNUAL AWARDS DINNER

INSIDE

WARREN MAYOR'S RACE REPORT FROM IRAQBUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: ALTOR INC.GOALS FOR FRANCHISE SUCCESS

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CC_0507_0120 5/15/07 4:03 PM Page 2

CHALDEAN COMMERCECHALDEAN COMMERCEThe newsletter of the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce

mmaayy -- jjuunnee 22000077

7 8 16

CALENDAR 4 Mark the Dates

MESSAGE 4 From the Chairman5 From the Executive Director

BRIEFINGS 6 Chaldean Storeowners: Targets of the Mayor’s Administration?

Members in the News

POLITICS 7 Warren Mayor’s Race:Clerk To Test City’s Diversity

REPORT FROM IRAQ 8 The Last Stand for Our People

COVER STORY 10 Boji and Levin Honored at Annual Awards Dinner

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 14 Johnny Oram: Altor, Inc.

PROFESSIONAL SPOTLIGHT 15 Olivia Bock: Private Banker

SOCIALS 16 2007 State of Michigan Outlook: Senate Majority Leader Michael D. Bishop

Gentlemen’s Night Out: Fight To End Hunger

Corporate Leaders Support Cultural Center

ENTREPRENEURSHIP 17 Setting Goals for Franchise Success

M A Y - J U N E 2 0 0 7 3

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The Chaldean American Chamber is continuing to make goodprogress in the service of our Chaldean business community. Wewant to keep you informed and engaged in the activities of theChamber through this publication.

This spring has been very productive for the Chamber. Thehighlight, of course, was our Fourth Annual Awards Dinner heldApril 13. Nearly 900 people attended the event at ShenandoahCountry Club, making the event a sellout. It was a wonderfulevening, which showed the extent of the support that theChamber and its honorees enjoys in the community. I wouldlike to extend my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to all whoassisted and contributed to the success of the event, from plan-ning, to attending, and providing sponsorships.

We have also been busy implementing our partnerships andservices to our members. In collaboration with Gleaners FoodBank, the Chamber hosted a Gentlemen’s Night Out at Shenandoah Country Club onApril 19. As a result of the event, Gleaners raised approximately $45,000 to help inthe fight to end hunger in our communities. We are also continuing to work closelywith the Chaldean Federation of America, dedicating our efforts to assist Iraqi refugeesand help them deal with the monumental problems they have to contend with.

The chamber recently hosted Senate Majority Leader Michael D. Bishop. TheSenator gave an informative presentation on Michigan’s current economy and theimpact it may have on Chaldean owned businesses. As part of our continuing “Meetthe CEO.” series, we had an engaging evening with the legal firm of Honigman,Miller, Schwartz and Cohn; some good memories were exchanged and a betterunderstanding developed. These meetings give some of Detroit’s most important deci-sion-makers the opportunity to learn more about the Chaldean business community.

Looking forward, we are busy planning the Quarterly Networking Meeting (May17), Golf Outing (June 21) and Chaldean Festival (August 4-5) as well as severalother events. Thank you again for your ongoing support and dedication to theChaldean American Chamber.

Dave Nona,Chairman

from the chairman

MESSAGECALENDAR

Dave Nona

The Chaldean American Chamber of

Commerce is a partnership of Chaldean

businesses and professionals working together

to strengthen member’s business, increase

job opportunities, encourage expansion

and promote Chaldean business and culture.

Interns will support these objectives.

Interns Wanted

mark the dates

MAY 23Chaldean Cultural Centerhosting Sherwood Foods

JUNE 5Meet the CEO Series, with Special Agent In-ChargeAndrew Arena, FBI

JUNE 14Chaldean Federation of America Commencement Gala

JUNE 21Annual Golf Outing

AUGUST 4-5 Annual Chaldean Festival

AUGUST 23Quarterly Networking Meeting at the World of Erhard

SEPTEMBER 20Real Estate/FranchisingConference

NOVEMBER 15Board Elections and Quarterly Networking Meeting

COMING SOON! Networking is key to thedevelopment of vital industryconnections and building andmaintaining relationships. Inthe month of June, theChamber is introducing theIndustry Outlook Series. Theseries will bring together busi-ness leaders providing insighton the future of their industry.

Chaldean Festival Vendor application is now available online!

DUTIES: • Assist staff with

correspondence

• Perform administrative tasks

• Assist with planningand attending business events and meetings

OPEN TO: Students who need credit towards high school and college classes.

For more informationplease contact Lisa Kalou at 248-538-3700.

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As you are aware, Chaldeans com-prise a large and influential com-munity in Southeast Michigan.Information sources available on theprevalence of the Chaldean com-munity are often too infrequent,insufficiently detailed and based oninaccuracies. Thus, the Chamberdecided to commission United Wayand Walsh College to conduct astudy that will provide an accurateportrayal of the Chaldean commu-nity. The Study is designed to pro-vide accurate, up-to-date informa-tion about the characteristics ofChaldean households and individuals on a range of issues.

The specific aims of the Survey are to:

• Provide an accurate count of the Chaldean population resid-ing in Southeastern Michigan.

• Show the economic influence Chaldean businesses havewithin Michigan

• Provide statistics on the education level• General Demographic Analysis

In the upcoming weeks, the Household Survey will be arrivingin your mailboxes. It is imperative that the Survey be complet-ed by every member of the community. The study will greatlybenefit the entire community by giving people a clear picture ofwho Chaldeans are.

Sincerely,

Martin Manna,Executive Director

from the executive director

Chaldean Commerce is published six times a year by the Chaldean AmericanChamber of Commerce

Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce30095 Northwestern Hwy.Suite 102Farmington Hills, MI 48334Phone: (248) 538-3700Fax: (248) 932-9161www.chaldeanchamber.com

PublisherChaldean American Chamber of CommerceInterlink Media

EditorBrenda Koza

Art DirectorAlex Lumelsky

Graphic DesignSKY Creative, Inc.

Martin Manna

“Information sources available on the prevalence of the Chaldean community are often too infrequent, insufficiently detailed and based on inaccuracies.”

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BRIEFINGS

Wireless Toyz,founded by JoeBarbat, will signifi-cantly broaden itsnational reach,connecting withthousands more

wireless consumersacross Floridathrough the acqui-sition of Tampa,Florida-basedBeepers ‘N Phonesof America Inc.This deal will bringthe nationwidestore count to morethan 200 storesoperating in 21states solidifyingtheir position asone of the nation’sleading multi-carri-er wireless retailers.

Joseph Jonnawas featured inCrain’s DetroitBusiness article“MultifacetedFamilies: Youngergenerations look tomake their mark onthe family business.”Jonna, chief estima-tor and safety direc-tor for Southfield-based JonnaCompany, joinedthe family ownedcompany in 2003

after graduating fromMichigan StateUniversity with adegree in urban andregional planning.

Fifth ThirdBank has recentlyawarded a $53,000grant to the

Chaldean CulturalCenter atShenandoahCountry Club. TheChaldean CulturalCenter will pro-mote an awareness

and understandingof the cultural her-itage, artistic andsocial traditionsand history of theChaldeans Thecenter plans toopen in 2008.

The first everMiss ChaldeanBeauty Pageant washeld on March 31,2007 at the RoyalOak Music Theatre.The exquisite eventwas produced byJason Kado and

Joe Jirgis of JADOproductions. Out oftwelve beautifulcontestants,Chanelle Hana wascrowned MissChaldean 2007.

Wasim Somohas recently part-nered with one ofthe newest andmost fascinatingestablishments tohit the real estateworld. He is amember of the

Dream Team atRe/max New Trendand his office islocated in HistoricCastle of BloomfieldHills. The ownersare pioneering anew way to conductbusiness and take

pride in providing aone-of-a-kind workplace environmentconsisting of plushcouches, a cozy fire-place, and state-of-the-art technology

supported by softjazz music playingand a full coffeebar. Wasim andhis partner JasonHanna are gettingaway from the tra-ditional office withcubicles and fluo-rescent lighting andare motivating theiragents to workmore effectivelywith this inspira-tional approach.Visitors havedubbed the office

“an atmosphere likeno other…theStarbucks of realestate offices.”

Ziad Dallohas joined MichiganFinancialCompanies inSouthfield, as SalesDirector for theirinsurance andfinancial servicedepartment.

Dounia Senawihas been appointedby Peoples State

Bank as their man-aging director ofbank branching andsales. Previously,she was VicePresident in theRetail Bank atComerica Bank forthe past six years.

Members In The News

by Otha Williams

“It’s stupid for us not to havea better relationship” were

the words of Detroit MayorKwame Kilpatrick when headdressed the audience at aChaldean Chamber ofCommerce Network Meeting inFebruary, 2006.

The purpose of that meetingheld at the Shenandoah CountryClub was to strengthen dialogueand trust between this mayor’sadministration and the Chaldean

community’s leadership.So now, a little more than a

year later, Chaldean storeownersare complaining of a reemer-gence of Detroit Police Officersrandomly doing food inspectionsand unfairly citing storeownerswith selling unwholesome food.

While merchants are inagreement that none should sellbad food, some storeownerscharge that this is part of a con-spiracy. They complain they getticketed for having food withrecently expired “Best if sold by”

dates. This is outside the state’sand the city’s definition of“unwholesome food.” There is arequirement that “Best if soldby” expired dated food be sepa-rated and marked accordingly.

However, in a recent meetingwith the mayor’s staff and discus-sions with the Chief of Police’soffice, they said there is no pro-gram targeting independentstoreowners. They said they areunaware of the problem or howwidespread it is. They did agreeto help with some assistance.

In order to effectively inves-tigate this action of citing store-owners and identify whichprecincts and/or officersinvolved, the chamber in con-junction with the Association ofFood and Petroleum Dealers iscollecting recently receivedunwholesome food citations.

The Chamber is askingChaldean storeowners to send theircitations to the Chamber offices sowe can properly assess the situa-tion and rectify the problem.

Otha Williams serves as theChamber’s municipal advisor

Chaldean Storeowners: Targets of the Mayor’s Administration?

Ziad Dallo Chanelle HanaJoe Barbat

Joseph Jonna Wasim Somo Dounia Senawi

Ziad Dallo Chanelle HanaJoe Barbat

Joseph Jonna Wasim Somo Dounia Senawi

6 C H A L D E A N C O M M E R C E

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R ichard Sulaka believes his lifestory epitomizes the American

dream. However, there is anunprecedented twist in the nextchapter.

The son of an Iraqi immigrant,Sulaka is vying to become possiblythe nation’s first mayor ofChaldean descent. Adding to that,he is one of three candidates run-ning in Warren, a city not knownfor being particularly welcomingof diversity in race and religion.

While the election isn’t untilNovember, Sulaka said he doesn’texpect it will be long before someof his political opponents try to usehis heritage against him.

Still, Sulaka, who was born inthe United States, said he doesn’t

want to make the election abouthis ethnicity.

“I’m very proud to be aChaldean American,” he saidWednesday. But “this is not aboutwhere my father was born. I wantpeople to vote for me because I’mthe most qualified and experienced.”

Lots of eyes will be on Sulaka,with the large Chaldean communi-ty in metro Detroit. And Warrenhas more than 6,000 Chaldeanresidents, estimates Martin Manna,executive director of the ChaldeanAmerican Chamber of Commercein Farmington Hills.

“He’s accomplished so much,and he will be the next mayor ofWarren,” Manna said.

Sulaka has a long history inWarren. He grew up there andafter graduating from FitzgeraldHigh School, he became a realestate broker, married and hadthree children, two of whomattend the University of Michigan.

Sulaka, who served on the CityCouncil for eight years and spentthe last eight years as city clerk,also attends St. Martin de PorresCatholic Church with his family.

Hostility lingersStill, Sulaka may face challenges inhis run for mayor as hostilitytoward people of Middle Easterndescent lingers in the city.

Earlier this month, an Assyrianchurch was vandalized with anti-Arab graffiti. And over the pastyear, there have been several inci-dents of vandalism at the IslamicOrganization of North America,which will be the city’s firstmosque when it opens this spring.

So far, two City Council mem-bers — Mindy Moore and MikeWiecek — have filed to run.Moore could not immediately bereached for comment.

Wiecek said he doesn’t expectSulaka’s heritage to become a political

issue, particularly because Sulaka’sname is known among voters.

Wiecek said Sulaka’s heritagemay impact voters “to some degreewith some people — that has a neg-ative connotation after Sept. 11.”

Richard Sabaugh, a longtimeMacomb County political consult-ant, said anything is possible inWarren. But he said opponentswho attack Sulaka’s heritage mightonly hurt themselves.

“I think it would backfire ifthey went after him and men-tioned his background,” Sabaughsaid this week.

“There are so many issues outthere in Warren today that peopleare going to look through all thatmudslinging.”

Increased voter turnout possibleSabaugh said negative campaign-ing might only bring out moreChaldean voters, a growing groupin Warren.

“There’s a large Chaldean pop-ulation in that area,” said VanessaDenha-Garmo, editor-in-chief ofthe Chaldean News, a monthlynewsmagazine. “It would makesuch an impact in the Chaldeancommunity.”

Sulaka said he is ready to makean impact as someone withChaldean heritage, but that herather would talk about his agenda.

He wants to develop thedowntown district without usingadditional bonding. He also wantsmore police in the neighborhoodsand to repair the icy relationshipbetween the mayor’s office and thecouncil.

“Our agenda needs to be mov-ing Warren forward,” he said.“This election needs to be aboutthe future of Warren.”

Reprinted with permission by theDetroit Free Press. Dan Cortez,Free Press Staff Writer

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WARREN MAYOR’S RACE

Clerk to test city’s diversity

Sulaka wants more police in the neighborhoodsand to repair the icy relationship between themayor’s office and the council.

POLITICS

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8 C H A L D E A N C O M M E R C E

Our Chaldean SyriacAssyrian people call their

Arab and Kurdish neighbors“brother.” Perhaps it would bemore proper that they be called“big brother.” They are subject-ed to fear and intimidation andif they should step outside cer-tain boundaries, they will bemassacred. It is time to workto break this mindset at thenational and international levelto restore the lost hope of ourpeople and to give them themost fundamental right, theright to exist.

As a representative for theChaldean American Chamber ofCommerce, March 10, 2007began for me a 10-day expeditioninto Iraq, the homeland I left 30years ago. The purpose was toattend a conference that wouldtake on the increasingly bleakfuture of Iraq’s ancient Christianpopulation (known through vari-ous names as Chaldean, Syriac orAssyrian, but as one Surayeh peo-

ple) in the northern NinevehValley (or Plain) region.

Since my previous visitshortly after the fall of Saddam’sregime in November 2003, itwas evident that Iraq wouldnever be the way that I remem-bered it. In northern Iraq,Kurdistan has essentiallybecome its own country thatmaintains loose ties to the cen-tral Iraqi government. It has itsown legislative government,constitution, judicial system,army, economy, flag, anthemand language (with English, notArabic, as the second languageafter the native Kurdish tongue).The Kurdish government hastaken the right steps to ensurethat a secular government, soci-ety and region be fostered whereradical Islam does not have theopportunity to flourish.

This conference was intendedto help to ensure the future of theChaldean Syriac Assyrian andother minority populations in the

region by making certaindemands of the Kurdish and Iraqigovernments. In attendance weresome 1,300 Chaldeans SyriacsAssyrians from around the worldand from the various provinceswithin Iraq. Eventually, we votedupon a single Declaration.

The Declaration’s agreementscan be summarized in four mainpoints:

• A demand for a self-autonomous area within theNineveh Valley while remainingpart of a unified Iraq.

• A demand that Christianvillages and cities be returned totheir original people and thatany attempt to forcibly alter thelandscape’s demographics beimmediately halted.

• An agreement that theancient Christian populations areall one people while still usingdifferent names, and that a com-pound name (Surayeh) be usedto encompass and refer to allChaldeans, Syriacs and Assyrians.

• That a 41-member councilbe established to act as a parlia-ment that will represent all theChaldean Syriac Assyrian peoplefrom all over the world. DetroitSurayeh will have one seat.

Establishing this Declarationwas a vital step in the rightdirection, yet much work needsto follow. As a Chaldean activistRobert DeKelaita puts it, theNineveh Plain solution is “OurLast Stand.” At stake is whetherour people will be able to pre-serve themselves as the indige-nous people of ancientMesopotamia, or be set on thepath of extinction from theirvery homeland within a fewgenerations.

The Kurds asked, reason-ably, for the creation of theirown representative and legisla-tive body. Why can’t the peopleof Nineveh Valley ask for thesame? An autonomous NinevehValley region in no way dividesor harms Iraq’s unity.

Since the rise of Islam in theregion, Iraq’s indigenous peoplehave been subject to the mercyof the volatile moods of localrulers. What once was a highlyintellectual, culturally civilizedand magnificent Christian com-munity that dominated theregion has been slowly chiseledto a mere few hundred thou-sand. They have been pushed tothe fringes of society, andbecause of past memories ofangering the Arab or KurdishMuslims, they fear even askingfor their own rights as humanbeings. They have allowed them-selves for too long to be treatedas second-class citizens as theywatch their once millions-strongcommunity dwindle away.

Ismat Karmo is the chairman of the Chaldean AmericanChamber of Commerce’s Iraq Task Force.

Ismat Karmoduring hisrecent trip to Iraq

The Last Stand for Our People By Ismat Karmo

REPORT FROM IRAQ

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Board of Directors/Executive CommitteeCHAIRMANDave NonaPresident, Triangle Development

EXECUTIVE VICE CHAIRMANFrank JonnaCEO, Jonna Construction

SECOND VICE CHAIRMANRocky HusaynuPresident, Professional Insurance Planners

TREASURERArvin AyarPartner, Bahoura, Ayar, Barringer & Bahoura

SECRETARYWendy AchoVice President, Targeted Business Development, LaSalle Bank

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR & EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERSaad HajjarPresident, Advanced Technology Systems

COUNSELRon AchoCummings, McClorey, Davis & Acho

Board Members

Paul AskerPartner, Asker, Clos & Perlmuter

Sandra Hanna Chemist, NSF International

Sharon HannawaMortgage Consultant, The Prime Financial Group

Tony KonjaPresident, Artistic Outdoor Services

Majid (Mike) Koza President, Group 10 Management

Anthony Mona Vice President, Investments, Smith Barney

Jason Najor President, Super Fair Cellular

Bassam SalmanCEO, Apollo Development

Stephen YatoomaManaging Partner, Audere Group

Chamber StaffExecutive Director Martin Manna

Director, Operations and EventsLisa Kalou

ControllerPaul Alraihani

AdministratorBrenda Koza

2007 Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce Partners

The Chaldean

American Chamber

of Commerce is

a partnership of

Chaldean businesses

and professionals

working together

to strengthen

members’ business,

increase job

opportunities,

encourage expansion

and promote

Chaldean business

and culture. The

Chamber seeks to

service and represent

Aramaic-speaking

people, including

Assyrians, Chaldeans

and Syriacs.

CHALDEAN AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

mission statement

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Eliya (Louie) Boji: Businessperson of the Year:Immigrating to the United States in 1968, Eliya(Louie) Boji, an attorney who earned his law degreefrom the University of Baghdad, had to discoveranother way to provide for his family since the U.S.does not accept foreign law degrees. He becameinvolved in a number of grocery and party stores witha variety of partners both in California and inMichigan. His role was to provide finance and man-agement expertise, paving the way to the formation ofThe Boji Group in 1997. The Boji Group is a Lansingbased Real Estate development firm that has con-tributed to the revitalization of Lansing, Michigan.

A year after the formation of The Boji Group,Louie acquired the former Michigan National Towerbuilding in downtown Lansing and redeveloped it asThe Boji Tower. The Lansing landmark is the tallestbuilding in the city. During the past 8 years, Mr. Bojihas developed the Capital View Building (165,000square feet) an adjacent 1250 car parking structurecompleted in 2004. During this time, he also acquiredvarious Lansing buildings such as the HollisterBuilding (comprising 100,000 square feet) and theFifth Third Bank Building (55,000 square feet). Louie’sefforts and risks have contributed to the redevelop-

1 0 C H A L D E A N C O M M E R C E

T he Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce’sFourth Annual Awards Dinner on April 13 was

attended by nearly 900 people at ShenandoahCountry Club.

Among the event’s highlights were remarks givenby his Beatitude Emmanuel III Delly, Patriarch ofBabylon for the Chaldeans. Through first handaccount, his Excellency discussed the situation of theIraqi people amongst the turbulent postwar period,in which Iraq is still immersed. His discussionfocused on the relationship of the Christian commu-nity with the Islamic majority in which innocentlives are being taken in the name of religion.Throughout his speech, his Excellency advocated forpeace, stability and security for all people in Iraq.

Ray Sayah of Channel 7 News was the master ofceremonies.

The Chaldean American Chamber of Commercerecognizes individuals that have contributed excel-lence through their success, vision and contributionto the Chaldean community. At this year’s premierevent, awards were presented to Eliya (Louie) Bojias Businessperson of the Year and Senator CarlLevin as Humanitarian of the Year.

BOJI AND LEVIN HONORED AT ANNUABOJI AND LEVIN HONORED AT ANNUA

COVER STORY

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ment of the State’s capital, which has spurred growthin Lansing’s central business district.

His business endeavors do not cease in Lansing. InJanuary 2004, Louie along with some partnersacquired United Wholesale, a 12 facility cash andcarry operation servicing convenience stores. With thesame group of partners, he purchased Custom ServicesInc., a distribution facility for convenience stores. Hethen led United Group to purchase and restore anolder 165,000 square foot shopping center inSouthfield. Also in 2006, he led a group of partners toacquire 26 Quik Chek convenience stores and gas sta-tions in North Carolina, along with the developmentof a 9 acre truck stop and four Hardee’s restaurants.His successful business endeavors have made him oneof the most respected and prominent figures in the realestate and building industry.

An active participant in his community, Louieserved on the Associated Food Dealers of MichiganBoard and is currently a Board Member and Treasurerof the Arab American and Chaldean Council. He is aprolific fundraiser for the North American ChaldeanDiocese and various church projects, including theChaldean Catholic Churches, St. George and St.Thomas. Also, many consider Louie a permanent

member of the FinanceCommittee for the Chaldean

Iraqi Association of Michigan. Aside from his successful

business accomplishments andcommunity service, Louie dedicates

his time and efforts to helping others with businessventures, securing financing, mediating disputes andsponsoring immigrants from Iraq.

Through hard work, perseverance, and success,Mr. Boji has exemplified how an immigrant from Iraqcan capture and live the America Dream. He is a con-stant inspiration to the entire Chaldean community.

Senator Carl Levin: Humanitarian of the YearCarl Levin is currently serving his fifth term in theUnited States Senate. Since his 1978 election to theSenate, Levin’s reputation as a lawmaker who puts prin-ciple before politics has earned him the respect andadmiration of not only Michigan’s voters but also his col-leagues in both parties. As a member of the Senate’sArmed Services Committee since 1979, Carl Levin is rec-ognized as a strong supporter of our national defense andan effective waste fighter. He was an early and consistentadvocate of efforts to prepare the American military tocombat terrorism and other emerging threats of the post-Cold War world. Levin has served as the Chairman ofthe Committee from June 2001 to January 2003, andbecame the Chairman of the Committee again with thebeginning of the 110th Congress in January 2007.

M A Y - J U N E 2 0 0 7 11

UAL AWARDS DINNERUAL AWARDS DINNER

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Senator Levin also serves as theChairman of the PermanentSubcommittee on Investigations of theHomeland Security and GovernmentalAffairs Committee. For the last six years,he has directed his staff in a comprehen-sive money laundering investigation,which has led to strengthened U.S. anti-money laundering. In addition, Levin’swork has supported international effortsto detect and stop money laundering andterrorist financing. In 2002, Levin led Congress’ mostin-depth examination into the collapse of Enron. Hisinvestigation exposed how Enron used deceptiveaccounting and tax transactions to report better finan-cial results than the company actually experienced.The subcommittee’s investigative work contributed tothe accounting and corporate reforms enacted in theSarbanes-Oxley Act in July 2002.

Levin is also a member of the Small Business andEntrepreneurship Committee and an ex officio mem-ber of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. Asa co-chair of the Senate Auto Caucus and the SenateAuto Parts Task Force, Levin has been one of the mostinsistent voices in Washington calling for tough actionto open the world’s markets to American goods. In hisrole as co-chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force,Levin has fought to protect this irreplaceable naturalresource for Michigan and the country.

Levin has been an advocate inWashington on issues of great importanceto the Chaldean American community.Last year during the Senate’s debate on theimmigration bill, he offered an amend-ment to prevent the deportation of Iraqireligious minorities who came to the U.S.with valid claims of asylum. His amend-ment would make these individuals eligi-ble for legal permanent residency statusand would supersede all previous judicial

action on their cases. The Senate accepted the amend-ment, but unfortunately, the House of Representativesand Senate conferees have so far failed to agree on animmigration bill. Senator Levin is hopeful that thenew Congress will take up the immigration bill againthis year. He remains optimistic that, with the strongleadership of the Chaldean Federation of America andsupportive efforts of others including the ChaldeanAmerican Chamber of Commerce, there will be suc-cess in providing necessary relief in that bill. Levinhas also urged the Administration and Congress toaddress the issue of Chaldean and Iraqi refugees andto help resettle them.

Senator Levin has been a great advocate for theChaldean community as a central and pivotal figure forChaldean issues in Washington. Senator Levin hasbrought a voice to our community at the highest levelsof government.

Much thanks andappreciation goes outto all the sponsorswho so generouslysupported the dinner:

Presenting Sponsor: Comerica Bank

Gold Sponsors: The Boji Group DaimlerChrysler

Financial Services DTE Energy Fifth Third Bank LaSalle Bank Wireless Toyz

Silver SponsorsBeaumont Hospitals Country Fresh Peoples State Bank Spartan StoresSprint

Bronze Sponsors Bavarian BMWBlue Cross Blue Shield Charter One Citizen Bank Coca Cola D&B GrocersDickinson Wright Flagstar Bank Henry Ford

Health SystemsInternational

Wholesale Inc. J. Lewis Cooper Co. Pepsi Qwik Park St. John Health/

Providence Park Hospital

SupervaluUnited Fuels United Wholesale

Grocery U.S. Army Wayne CountyThe World of Erhard

Much gratitude to allwho worked so hardon planning theevent, including Co-Chairs Amal BerryBrown, vice presidentof business develop-ment for ComericaBank, and Mike Koza,President of GroupTen Management

Acknowledging Our Sponsors

COVER STORY

Levin has beenan advocate inWashington onissues of greatimportance tothe ChaldeanAmerican community.

CC_0507_0120 5/15/07 4:03 PM Page 12

M A Y - J U N E 2 0 0 7 13

AL LONG FORD-TARIK DAOUD A dealership that treats every customer as a potential lifetime purchaser, communicating a professional imagewhich embraces honesty and concern for the customers wants and needs.13711 East 8 Mile Road, Warren, MI

ANTONE, CASAGRANDE & ADWERS P.C., PETER ANTONE, CORPORATE MEMBER An immigration firm which practices in allareas of employment and family-basedimmigration law, including Green Cards,Work Permits, Naturalization, EmployerAssistance, and other related matters. 31555 W. 14 Mile Road, Suite 100,Farmington Hills, MI

THE DENTIST, RITA MARROGHI-JABROA family dentist office providing premium care, offering services such as teeth cleaning, gum disease treatment and other procedures.683 W. Huron, Pontiac, MI

FRANKLIN BANK, HAMMAD SYED A full service bank primarily serving asubstantial number of small to mediumsized business, their owners and individ-ual customer in its primary market area. 50787 Corporate Drive, Shelby Township, MI

HOBBS BLACK ARCHITECTS, ELLIN CALLAHAN A nationally recognized design firm withover 40 years of experience providingarchitectural and engineering design and related consulting service.100 North State Street, Ann Arbor, MI

THE LARK, ADRIAN LARK One of the most renowned and celebrat-ed restaurants in the Midwest, specializ-ing in eclectic and distinctive cuisine, cre-ated with French cooking techniques. 6340 Farmington Road, West Bloomfield, MI

LUCKY B.P. INC., CHARLES AGHAJOUNA reputable company that builds and leases commercial real estate properties,such as shopping centers, gas stations and restaurants. 29672 Brentwood , Southfield, MI

LAW OFFICES OF WALTER Z. GRAVES, WALTER Z. GRAVES Specializes in real estate and business plan-ning, including all aspects of commercialand residential real estate development. 39533 Woodward Ave., Suite 170,Bloomfield Hills, MI

MORAN’S FLORA, INC.Offers a large variety of fresh flowers andgifts. Enjoy the convenience of safe andsecure ordering online 24 hours a day,with flower and gift delivery to theBirmingham, MI area. 375 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, MI

PARKWOOD PROPERTIES, JOHN KHAMI Assist clients with the purchase and sale of properties and commercial real estate. 5364 Cheltenham Drive, Troy, MI

POWERHOUSE GYM, TERRY AZZOOffers you the most complete health andfitness experience, with numerous cardio-vascular and weight machines, innovativeclasses and more. 6750 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield, MI

TONER INK & MORE, MARSHA (SHAMOUN) VENETEveryday savings up to70% on toner and ink cartridges for printers, copiers and fax machines.37665 Five Mile Road, Livonia, MI

VARIANT PARTNERS, DAVID SARAFA Over 35 years of experience developingand delivering custom recruiting solutions. 24 Frank Lloyd Wright Drive, Suite H3000, Ann Arbor, MI

New Members

Renewed MembersAAA TRUE VALUE, Alan Mansour

ARTISTIC OUTDOOR SERVICES, INC, Tony Konja

BBDO DETROIT, Joyce Tominna

BBDO DETROIT, Vivian Alhermizi

CHARTER ONE BANK, Jacqueline Wiggins, CORPORATE MEMBER!

COLLIERS INTERNATIONAL, Layth Barash

DKI, INC, Phillip Mansour

EIGHT MILE BOULEVARD ASSOCIATION, Tami Salisbury

FIFTH THIRD BANK, Byna Elliott, CORPORATE MEMBER!

GIAMARCO, MULLINS & HORTON P.C., Randall A. Denha

HEATHER’S LIQUOR LAND, Adel Thomas Gallozi

INVESTICO DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, Ned Hakim

LASALLE BANK, Wendy Acho, CORPORATE MEMBER!

VANIA KASKORGIS

KENSINGTON INN, George & Kevin Jappaya

MBN AMERICA, Wally Jadan

PEPPER HAMILTON, LLP, Randy Adwish

PENTACLE TECHNOLOGIES, Ed Babbie

PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES, Salah Zoma

QONJA ENTERPRISES, Zuher Qonja

REMAX CLASSIC, Brian Yaldoo

SECURITY FINANCIAL SERVICES, Kenny Zair

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DAVID LAW

TINELLE PROPERTIES, Ronnie Asmar

UNITED HARDWARE, Jerry George

YORK FINANCIAL, Sally Denha Lafave

W3R CONSULTING, Bashar Hannosh

WHITEHALL REAL ESTATE INTEREST, Gary Steven Jonna

WORLD OF ERHARD, Leslie Rhodes, CORPORATE MEMBER!

view a listing of our members at www.chaldeanchamber.com

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The meaning of Altor in Latin is to “help,advocate, and guide.” These are the

objectives of Altor, Inc., an internationalconsulting firm founded by Johnny Oram in2004 and based in Troy, Michigan. Altor isa global business and governmental consult-ing firm which represents companies inmany industries, such as financial services,information technology, wastemanagement/refuse, retail, wholesale, andgovernmental clients.

Johnny began envisioning Altor whileworking as former Michigan StateRepresentative Ken Daniels’ Chief ofStaff. During his time in Lansing,he was assisting small businessesengrossed in the bureaucraticmess they faced in the capital cityand elsewhere. Legislators hadpassed certain laws which neg-atively impacted their welfare.Due to his experiences in thepublic sector at all levels of gov-ernment spanning a period of 15

years, Johnny felt compelled to leave his joband open a consulting firm. Moreover,Johnny spent many years in the private sec-tor, having lived and worked in Hawaii, Asia,and South America. During these experienceshe encountered in both the public and pri-vate sectors, he saw the importance of unity.He believes that “business and governmentmust work in unison with one another tohelp ensure a robust and healthy economy”.

Some of Altor’s many accomplishmentsinclude: development and implementa-

tion of a strategic plan whichresulted in a multi-milliondollar private equity invest-ment for the client’s com-pany to expand their oper-

ations, conceiving of a wide array of diversesoftware processes which provided a newrevenue stream for client, and developmentof a national franchise, etc.

Since 2004 Altor’s consulting operationshave continued to expand into a variety ofindustries and governmental sectors. Altor’sservices include:

• Business Planning Development:Assist companies in their business planningdevelopment, by putting together sophisti-cated, high quality, investor grade businessand marketing plans.

• New Business Development andExpansion: Consult companies in develop-ing new business concepts in order to realizenew revenue streams.

Franchise Planning/Development:Assisting clients with a franchise concept,operational and franchise implementation.

• International Governmental &Regulatory Planning: Advise local, state andfederal units of government by helpingshape public policy.

• International Governmental &Regulatory Advocacy: Assist small, medi-um, and big companies and non-governmen-tal organizations bring issues before local,state, and federal bodies of government.

Although Altor, Inc is local, Johnny andhis team have a reach that is global.

Johnny A. OramAltor, Inc 3250 West Big Beaver Road, # 426Troy, Michigan 48084(248) 479-1056 e-mail: info@altor-inc.comWeb: www.altor-inc.com

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Johnny Oram: Altor, Inc.

“Business and government must work in unison with one another to help ensure

a robust and healthy economy” – Johnny Oram

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PROFESSIONAL SPOTLIGHT

Olivia Bock: Private Banker

Choosing a person tohandle your money is as

important as choosing yourdoctor. If you seek comfortin knowing your assets willbe preserved through lifeevents and “golden years,”Olivia Bock is your bestinvestment.

Olivia Bock is anAssistant Vice President inthe Wealth & Intuitional ManagementDepartment at Comerica Bank. Olivia pos-sesses a degree in Corporate Finance fromWayne State University and six years ofbusiness experience. She has developedthe skills to provide a full range of cus-tomized lending arrangements and special-

izes in financing for residen-tial and commercial realestate, professional practiceand deposit products.

As a private banker,Olivia caters to high-networth individuals. To attainthis level of individualizedattention, she follows a set ofenduring principles held byComerica Bank. This processrequires careful planningbased on in-depth analysis ofyour financial goals, currentfinancial situation, economic

and tax status. Olivia allocates her time bydedicating herself to each client’s short-term and long-term financial goals. Shewill ensure a smooth and convenient appli-cation process and handle transactions thatcomplement your lifestyle

Throughout the ongoing process of private

banking, Olivia is able to access a network ofadvisors, attorneys and accountants. This teamapproach ensures the development of an intri-cate and well planned strategy to obtain yourinvestment needs. Further, Comerica’s Wealth& Institutional Management offers a plethoraof investment services that meet planning,management, and banking needs for bothindividuals and businesses.

As the 2005 and 2006 recipient of theChairman’s Outstanding AchievementAward, it is apparent that Olivia can betrusted to help you attain the financialinvestments necessary to meet your futurehopes and dreams.

Olivia W. Bock Comerica BankWealth & Institutional Management35405 Grand River Ave. Farmington, MI 48335Ph# 248-473-4546

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SOCIALS

2007 State of MichiganOutlook: Senate MajorityLeader Michael D. BishopOn April 24, 2007, The ChaldeanChamber hosted Senate Majority LeaderMichael D. Bishop at ShenandoahCountry Club. Senator Bishop presentedon Michigan’s economic and financial cri-sis and his commitment to finding solu-tions during Michigan’s difficult time. Hediscussed prevalent issues such as “Willtaxes be raised this year?” and “Will newlegislation affect your business.” Morethan 80 members and guests from theChaldean Chamber of Commerce,Chaldean Federation of America,Chaldean Cultural Center, and ChaldeanIraqi American Association of Michiganattended the presentation.

Gentlemen’s Night Out: Fight To End HungerOn April 19, 2007, GleanersCommunity Food Bank ofSoutheastern Michigan, incollaboration with theChaldean AmericanChamber of Commerce host-ed Gentlemen’s Night Out atShenandoah County Club.Approximately 300 menenjoyed an evening of food,games, and camaraderie inthe efforts of raising moneyand awareness to help fighthunger within neighboringcommunities. The eventraised an estimated $45,000,which equates to 105,000meals made available to thepublic. Thanks to everyonewho came out to supportthis wonderful cause.

Senator Bishop presented on Michigan’s economicand financial crisis and his commitment to findingsolutions during Michigan’s difficult time.

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Before you research any franchises, you should set three- and five-year goals. Goals must be both financial and “quality of life” (or

non-financial) in nature. Financial goals should take into accountcash flow, savings, net worth, equity build-up and spendable income.Quality of life goals should consider lifestyle issues that are importantto you, like having dinner at home three nights a week, beingable to take vacations, attend soccer games, make a differ-ence in the community, and so on.

Don’t overlook quality of life goals or you’re settingyourself up for dissatisfaction. Quality of life goals aremore important that financial goals. Why? Becausemany people who invest in a franchise have alreadymade a decent living in the past. Aside from earning apaycheck however, they couldn’t find a compelling rea-son to go to work in the morning. Money alone wasn’tenough to keep them going, and money will not hold yourinterest long either. While you will have some minimum thresh-old of earnings which you won’t dare to venture below, once that thresh-old is exceeded, you will find that quality of life becomes the driver.

Virtually all franchisors have key performance criteria that helpyou and the franchisor determine whether or not your business iswinning. You will be taught how to track sales, labor costs, cost ofsales, and other statistical measures. Franchisors design their businessand support systems to help you structure your business to achievethese measures and monitor results.

However, we know of no franchisor who measures how manymeans you’ve eaten with your children or how many of the kids’ soccergames you’ve attended. Franchisors measure your success by their defi-nition, not yours. Most franchisors have no clue as to whether or nottheir “successful” franchisees are living the life they originally desiredwhen they invested in a franchise. Franchisors follow the money. Andas we’ve already stated, money won’t hold your interest long.

Additionally, in order to secure SBA loans, bank financing, finan-cial support from your family, or other forms of financing, chances areyou will need to write and submit a business plan or cash-flow projec-tions to the parties from whom you’re seeking financing. In your planyou will detail the tactics and strategies you will execute to drive thesales, contain the costs, maximize the cash flow of your business, andrepay your loan. To succeed in business, you have to generate money.

Imagine that you’re in business, money is tight and you are twomonths late on loan payments. The loan officer calls you to see whathappened. You tell the loan officer that while you don’t have themoney to pay the two installments, you did attend all your kid’s soccer

games this month. Most likely the loan officer will sarcastically reply,“Congratulations. I’m nominating you for parent of the year. Where ismy money?”

Like the bank, the franchisor also wants its money on time.Franchisors, like banks, are as focused on achieving their own finan-

cial goals as you are in achieving your complete and total defini-tion of success. We’re not saying this is right or wrong, it’s

just the way it is. If you were to list and prioritize themany reasons you’re looking to start a franchise,where does “Helping the franchisor exceed itscorporate objectives” show up on the list? So youwant yours, the franchisor wants theirs, the bankwants theirs, and the world turns.It’s solely your responsibility to create a clear def-

inition of the financial and quality of life goals thatdefine what winning looks like for you. Use your def-

inition of winning as your criteria to compare various fran-chise opportunities. The franchise where you have the highest proba-bly of attaining both your financial and quality of life goals is thefranchise you make an investment in.

It’s easy to lose sight of your goals. Prospective franchisees oftenget caught up in their perceptions of the problems and challenges ofthe business rather than whether or not the franchise can help themachieve their objectives with a high degree of probability.

For instance, you may be investigating a residential home-clean-ing business and from talking to franchisees you hear there is a highemployee turnover. Afraid that you might get stuck cleaning houses,you think, “I didn’t go to college so I can clean toilets and vacuumcarpets.” Your knee-jerk reaction is to dismiss the opportunity.However, whether or not there’s employee turnover isn’t’ the realissue at hand. Given employee turnover, your focal point should bewhether or not you can still achieve your goals with a high degree ofprobability. Therefore, goal-focused prospective franchisees will digdeeper and ask such questions as:

• What are the franchisor’s hiring and retention strategies? • What is the impact of turnover on the business? • How long does it take to find replacement help? • What training programs are in place to train replacement labor? • How long does it take a new hire to become productive?Every franchise has its unique challenges to overcome. Franchisors

either have proven systems and a demonstrated track record for over-coming these challenges or they don’t. Dismiss those who don’t.Investigate those who do by asking questions like the ones above.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Setting Goals for Franchise Success: Before you buy a franchise, it’s important to set goals so you can reach your financial and personal dreams.

By Joe Matthews, Don DeBolt and Deb Percival

1 8 C H A L D E A N C O M M E R C E

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fourth annual

C H A L D E A N CHAMBER FOUNDATION

GOLF OUTING11 am, Thursday,

June 21, 2007

at

Shenandoah Country Club

5600 Walnut Lake Road

West Bloomfield, MI 48323

Corporate Sponsors:

presents the

fourth annual

C H A L D E A N CHAMBER FOUNDATION

GOLF OUTING11 am, Thursday,

June 21, 2007

at

Shenandoah Country Club

5600 Walnut Lake Road

West Bloomfield, MI 48323

CONTACT LISA KALOU AT 248-538-3700 OR LKALOU@CHALDEANCHAMBER.COM TO REGISTER.CONTACT LISA KALOU AT 248-538-3700 OR LKALOU@CHALDEANCHAMBER.COM TO REGISTER.

CC_0507_0120 5/15/07 4:03 PM Page 19

2 0 C H A L D E A N C O M M E R C E

Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce30095 Northwestern Highway, Suite 102Farmington Hills, MI 48334

PRSRT STDUS POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT NO. 83

FARMINGTON HILLS, MI

callin

gall women…

The Women’s Professional and BusinessCommittee is Looking for You!

Come join us at Blush Salon for the Women’s Networking Event

on July 12. For more information contact the Chamber

office at 248-538-3700

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