Entries for the 'Business & Finance' Category

Florida, USA - If you ask the Clearwater BP gas station owner Karim Mansour, he will say they had a bone to pick with Cody and they won.  Florida’s health department inspector says the dog will no longer be able to join his owner to work. 

“Successful Chaldean business owners are known to fight for their employees.  It is perhaps one of the biggest reasons as to why they are successful.  You treat your workers great, they are loyal and work hard to make the business a success,” says Angela Yousif, a member of Clearwater areas Chamber of Commerce. 

Mansour, received a warning from the Florida Department of Health on Thursday, informing him that Cody would have to go or all of the store's food - mostly bottled soda, candy and other snacks - would be declared unfit for consumption.

Michigan, USA – “It is hard enough to make a living in Michigan. Now we have to give up the right to protect ourselves when our lives are being threatened.  This state is getting way out of control,” says Andrew Gabara, of Clinton Township. 

Gabara’s comments are in light of the ongoing frustration Chaldeans in Clinton Township are feeling regarding the Nick’s Party Stop robbery.  “This state is backward.  They were protecting themselves form being robbed and now they are being sued.  Where is the justice?”

Scott Zielinski, who was found guilty and sentenced to prison for the November 2007 robbing Nick’s Party Stop in Clinton Township sued the store owner and employees from prison for beating him up during the robbery.  John Acho, and three employees including Acho's nephew Justin Kallo, who shot Zielinski twice were named in the suit. 

Zielinski, 23, filed the lawsuit in April after he was shot while robbing the store on Cass Avenue, south of 19 Mile Road, near Chippewa Valley High School. Zielinski, wielding a knife and wearing a mask, entered the store about 7:30 p.m. Nov. 15, 2007, and demanded cash and cigarettes. As he fled out the front door carrying a bag of money and cigarettes, he was shot in the arm.

Baghdad, IRAQ — Efforts by Western and Iraqi business leaders help secure a new chapter in Iraqi’s economic stability and growth.  A major breakthrough for Iraq’s oil industry is made after three international oil consortiums accept Iraq’s terms to develop two oil fields. 

American Iraqi Business Group (AIBG) chairman, Sam Yono shares that recent developments have changed; more companies have agreed to meet Iraq’s price requirements for oil.   

Yono leads the largest consortium of independent Western businesses seeking to conduct business in Iraq.  AIBG offers education and assistance to Iraqi and Western corporations on securing bids from Iraq and better understanding business opportunities.  The business group helps to form collaboration, consortiums, and build synergies to meet the needs of the reemerging Iraqi market. 

After a successful endeavor of a winning bid for BP-China’s CNPC consortium which bid $2 per barrel produced to develop the 17.8 billion barrel Rumaila field with a targeted production of 2.85 million barrels per day, up from its current nearly one million barrels a day, more oil consortium’s sought to bid more competitively. 

AIBG reports that they can now share that, that a total of three other consortiums also were awarded.  One led by Exxon Mobil and Royal Dutch Shell, another by ConocoPhilips, and a third by Russia’s Lukoil. 

When sales slump due to a slow economy, a Chaldean business owner’s first inclination is often to cut the marketing budget. After all, one has fixed costs and cash flow can be irregular. But marketing should be the last activity Chaldeans eliminate or you risk an even faster downward spiral.

Advertising your business and attracting new customers must be an ongoing process, and there are many things Chaldean entrepreneurs can do that cost absolutely nothing.

Here are just a few suggestions.

Present
Professional event and meeting planners are always looking for presenters and workshop leaders for conferences. Chaldean entrepreneurs can research contact names in the Directory of Event Planners or partner with a local church, community center, or event planner to organize a community workshop related to your expertise.  When you do get the opportunity to make a presentation or speak to group of people, be sure to collect business cards for a drawing to win a book or other prize related to your business.

The U.S. and the U.K. may be mired in what was once thought of as a Third World style of financial crisis, but what was once considered the Third World is not.  Local, state, and national governments in both America and Europe are seeing a significant spike in crime and fraud. 

“Giving home loans to every person that walked into a mortgage or bank loan office is the root of all the problems,” says Mary Hessu, a banker with Community Bank in Michigan.  “America was supposed to be about equal opportunity and earning your way.  Giving undeserving people loans for some social engineering experiment has rocked the world.”

Hessu says the consequences of America’s politicians poor decisions is unemployment and crime.  “Crime is skyrocketing and Chaldeans who happen to own businesses are the victims.  Stores are being burglarized, check cashing fraud, and identity theft is hurting out community.”

All experts agree that the very best way for Chaldeans to prevent an armed robbery is to send a message that your business is not an easy target and not worth the effort. In this article, www.CHALDEAN.org covers the most helpful tips in preventing armed robbery for Chaldean small business owners. 

Michigan, USA - Even before it was fashionable in America, Chaldeans were proselytizing about the value of thrift and saving.  “I give all my American friends having financial trouble the book,” says Faith Yono a senior finance major at Wayne State University in Michigan.  “The book is small, but filled with wise financial sense.  This is a reason why Babylonians are some of the wealthiest people even today.”

Yono is referring to the book titled the Richest Man in Babylon written by George Samuel Clason which gives financial advice through a collection of parables set in ancient Babylon.  Through their experiences in business and managing household finance, the characters in the parables learn simple lessons in financial wisdom. By basing these parables in ancient times, but involving situations that modern people can understand and identify with, the author presents these lessons as timeless wisdom that is as relevant today as it was back then.

Chaldeans are known to teach that you should never spend what you borrowed.   “America’s culture of consume on credit is very bad,” says Yono.  “People are taught to buy whatever they like on credit cards and pay the crazy interest later.  The same stupid thinking is now in government.   They just want to borrow and spend and this is very bad.”

California, USA – “You have to know your rights.  Otherwise they may take advantage of you when you rent from them,” says Khaloud “Kelly” Heso, a property manager in Orange Grove Townhouse and Apartments in a small town outside of San Diego, California.  “I once worked with a company that taught us not to share renter rights with the tenants.  I could not work for a company that operated in that way, so I left and came to Orange Grove.” 

Chaldeans should know what their rights are when renting and you don't have to be expert in landlord-tenant law to protect yourself. Chaldeans are reminded to review their rights when renting or leasing and to always read the agreement before signing the dotted line.

Laws that protect both landlord and tenant have become so complex that understanding your rights can be difficult. Since landlord-tenant law varies by state, the key is knowing your rights -- preferably before you even sign your rental agreement. Understanding your state law and the terms of your lease are your best guarantees against future problems.

15 common renters' rights all Chaldeans should know:

Michigan, USA - Federal tobacco taxes are set to go into effect April 1.   The biggest federal tax increase will hit roll-your-own tobacco, rising from $1.10 per pound to $24.78 per pound. Store-bought cigarette taxes will head from 39 cents per pack to $1.01 per pack. The state tax for store-bought cigarettes stands at $2 a pack.

Chaldean retailers that sell tobacco say customers are stocking up and driving demand.  Stores that sell loose tobacco and cigarettes are clamoring to keep their inventory stocked.  Unhappy store owner John Kallabat of Canopy Bottle & Gourmet Shoppe in Brighton wonders how sales will fare starting next month. His store sells cigars and cigarettes, but no roll-your-own tobacco.

"It seems like every time they decide to put a tax increase on something it's always beer, wine or liquor or tobacco, and that's our livelihood," Kallabat said.

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's budget wouldn't touch Michigan's $2-per-pack cigarette tax, it would slam other tobacco smokers, chewers and puffers who've been a favorite tax target for states to balance budgets and, in the name of good health, discourage tobacco use.

Just a few weeks after Salim Bashi was laid off as manager of a taxi cab company in Michigan, he found himself driving through Detroit with his 11-year-old son, Sam. Sam knew that his father was unemployed and that money was a concern in their family. 

Salim says, “We stopped at a red light, and saw a homeless man pushing a shopping cart.  I could see in my son’s eyes he was worried.  I asked him what he was thinking.  First he was scared to answer.  He wanted to know if we would be like that man with the shopping cart."   

www.CHALDEAN.org speaks to several Chaldean fathers about how losing a job can affect family life.

More Chaldean stay-at-home moms are using their creativity, experience and education into starting businesses on the side. No matter if your goals are as simple as adding to the family’s income or as big as building a million dollar company, starting part-time from home is a great way to test the business waters. 

But between helping the kids with complex homework assignments, shuttling them to countless activities and volunteering at their school--all while managing the household and trying to carve out a little time for yourself--where do they find the time to start a business? 

www.CHALDEAN.org interviews Chaldean stay-at-home moms who have been able to successfully juggle their family and business, all from their home headquarters.

Most of what we learn about human behavior is taught by nonverbal signals. Body language is a powerful but subtle form of communication.  Learning to interpret the clues and indicators of body language will help guide you through delicate situations and help you shape better personal relationships.

Like the spoken language different cultures also have their share of unique nonverbal gestures.  In the Chaldean community various body gestures can help better understand what is being said or how someone feels.  These include gestures, body movements, facial expressions, and even vocal tone and pitch. Much of the nonverbal information we get from people comes from their eyes. This explains why it’s often hard to infer meaning from a telephone call or written words.

Since nonverbal communication—or body language—is such a natural part of our communication life and community, learning to interpret it can really improve our relationships and understanding of other people. Still, it’s an art to be treated with a degree of caution. Misinterpretation does occur and it is always best to ask questions, otherwise acting on your perceptions can have ghastly consequences.

Knowing the art of Chaldean body language or body language in general will improve communications.  Here are some interesting Chaldean body language clues that many of us all share.

Chaldean Body Language 101: Understand the Meanings of Chaldean Gestures

Michigan, USA – “When the economy goes down, crime goes up,” says Adel Oraha, spokesperson for a growing group of Chaldean business leaders looking at moving into other states.  “We can’t keep doing business in Michigan if this state continues to beat-up on business with taxes and crime.” 

Chaldean business owners have begun forming collaborative groups to explore creating business parks in different states that are welcoming to Chaldeans.  Oraha says, “As a group we have over 2,000 employees and bring in over ten million in state taxes alone each year.  Crime, corruption, and high taxes make it hard to continue doing business in Michigan.  However, many businesses want to leave because of how unwelcoming the state has become for small business owners.  But we can’t move because of our culture and ties to the church and community.  We are working to change all that.” 

The bold move by Oraha and his fellow group members are researching plans to move an entire community.  “We are looking into which states would be best for Chaldean business families.  The place has to be business friendly, good schools, ability to build or lease a church for Chaldean services and near banquet facilities for family parties, and inexpensive air travel for continued family connections.” says Oraha.  The Chaldean grocery store chain owner was reluctant to say which states the group is leaning towards.

Michigan, USA – "They were buying a $10 bottle. Now they're buying a $6 bottle," said Mike Acho, owner of the Wine Cellar party store in Waterford. "People don't have the money. They're not working, but they still want the alcohol, so they buy the cheaper stuff."

Chaldean business leaders within the Merchants of Michigan association say the state is heading towards the cliff’s edge.  Michigan remains the worst state in country.  It has the highest unemployment rate in the country, a continually slumping economy and one of the highest foreclosure rates in the nation; experts say much of the increased drinking may be related to people trying to drown their sorrows. 

State records agree with the opinion sharing that more customers are choosing to drink at home instead of bars and restaurants.    Alcohol purchases nationwide have risen about 2%, total sales in Michigan have nearly doubled that, 3.5%, with residents of the Great Lakes State spending $895 million in 2007. The increase is in spite of a loss in the state's population of more than 46,000 people last year.

California, USA – Chaldeans in California grow worrisome as the state’s debt skyrockets.  “They will tax the people to death in this state,” says Abrahim Bajoka, owner of an Arco Gas Station.  “Tax! Tax! Tax!  The more money they take from us the less we can grow, hire new people, or buy new products to sell.  This is basic business.  What is wrong with this state?”

Bajoka’s aggravation is not rare.  Taxpayer groups in the “Fruit & Nut” state are also fuming and vowing to go to court to initiate a referendum to halt nearly $10 billion in recent tax increases Democrats passed in a secret special session last Thursday. 

Lawmakers across the nation are shocked at the extraordinary parliamentary maneuver.   California Democrats circumvented a constitutional provision requiring a two-thirds vote in the state legislature to raise taxes by using their simple majority. “What they are telling small business owners is that we don’t want you in our state,” says Bajoka.  “The hard workers get taxed and the lazy get fed.  This is all wrong.”

So which are the best low-tax states welcoming new business leaders and encouraging economic growth?  Just follow the trail of Chaldeans….

Michigan, USA - Chaldeans time and again show their prowess to succeed. "Hard work, exceptionally creative, and humble," says Ashley Polus, a guest at the prestigious Southfield Skyline business award ceremony.  "Ron Jona made us all proud. I was pleasantly surprised to learn he was the man being honored. As I said earlier, hard work, exceptionally creative, and humble.  He deserves it," she said.

Southfield is home to over 9,000 businesses including more than 80 "Fortune 500" companies. The City of Southfield is the premier business address in Michigan. With more than 27 million square feet of office space and over seven million square feet of retail and industrial space - Southfield is truly Michigan's undisputed business center. In fact, Southfield boasts more office space than the central business districts of Cleveland, Cincinnati, Detroit, Indianapolis or Kansas City.

New York, USA – Chaldeans and Assyrians in American are appalled at Christie’s Auction House of New York.  “They are war profiteers moving the spoils of war,” says Chaldean art collector Enas Namoo from his downtown Chicago office.  The Chaldean art collector, well known for his Mediterranean art collection, was furious for what he saw in the catalog of the ancient art and antiquities auction at Christie's next week.  Among the collection was a pair of neo-Assyrian earrings established as artifacts of Mesopotamia.  “This belongs in the museum, not on an auction block,” said a angered Namoo. 

Along with Namoo, Iraqi authorities have also appealed to have the pair of neo-Assyrian earrings returned.  The 9,000–10,000-year-old earrings are expected to bring in up to $65,000, but Iraqi officials say they are part of the treasures of Nimrud and thus rightfully the property of Iraq.

Chaldean archeologist, art curator, antiquity expert, and former director of the Iraq Museum Donny George says, “I am 100 percent sure they are from the same tombs from Nimrud. I witnessed the excavation."

Michigan, USA – While the automotive giants and industry big houses are off begging for bail-out funds, real business leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation are busy finding new ways to better serve customers.  Ask John Abbo, owner of Mobil station at Clyde Road and U.S. 23 in Hartland Township, who has transformed the gas station into a convenient one-stop-shop. 

"The general trend is consumption of petroleum has gone down; it has affected our industry a lot," Abbo said. "We're fortunate that we were able to do the different type of things that we did, like put in a new grill, and we've now converted the store into a market. Gas stations aren't what they used to be."

Abbo has expanded offerings at his 5,000-square-foot station, which he now refers to as the "Hartland General Store," including adding a full liquor collection, expanding Hartland Express Pizza into a grill and selling Michigan Department of Natural Resources hunting and fishing licenses on site. Frozen foods, a deli and other offerings are also included in the renovations, which are expected to wrap up within the next month or so.

In all, Abbo said, he's poured nearly a quarter of a million dollars in improvements.

Michigan, USA – Another remarkable business light shines through the darkness of Michigan’s economy.  Alpine Marketplace in Linden, Michigan, against all business odds refused to allow Michigan’s economy to get in the way of offering Linden residents the very best. 

“They have expanded and really offer the best of quality foods,” says Gina Shiller, customer of Alpine. “All other business are cutting corners trying to save cost, but not this place.  They spared no expense to take care of their customers.”

The “Alpine” name is the only thing that remains the same.  Marvin and Norm Yono say it is in their blood to give their customers their best, a standard of excellence they deserve.  “That means fresh, local, seasonal and gourmet products — priced affordably at regular ‘grocery store’ prices.” 

Michigan, USA – Obama’s ties to Chaldean business leaders is not limited to Chaldean British billionaire Nadhmi Auchi and Chicago millionaire Antoin “Tony” Rezko.  Auchi’s connection to Saddam Huseein and his loan to Obama of 3.5 million dollars through the Panamanian company Fintrade Services SA for his home on 5050 South Greenwood Avenue in Chicago, caught little media attention in the political campaign.  

Despite the fact that Obama’s appeal to Chaldean business owners isn’t in the small businesses policies he campaigned about, Chaldean business leaders are going to make the best of popularity. 

Take for example, gas station owner Sam Bazzi in Detroit.  Bazzi is capitalizing on the President Obama frenzy hoping to cover the eventual tax hikes his station and small business like his will face once Obama takes office.  The owners of the independent gas station re-branded a few months ago, including the roof, the sign, the pumps and even the awnings. The new Obama Oil on the corner of Wyoming Street and Plymouth Road in Detroit is a brilliant marketing move that has been “pumping” up customers and ringing in profits.

Michigan, USA – Chaldean businesses will soon feel another round of pinches as Michigan continues its economic free fall.  Chrysler LLC, whose owner has been in talks to sell the automaker to General Motors Corp., said Friday it will cut 25 percent of its salaried work force starting next month and warned that it will make more restructuring announcements soon.

Chrysler, which has about 18,500 white-collar workers, said Friday it also will cut a quarter of its contract employees — those who work for other companies under contract with the automaker.  About 5,000 people are likely to lose their jobs, although the company would not say how many contract workers it has.

“This will impact many Chaldean families,” says Joey Markos, owner of a dry cleaner with standing accounts for many Chrysler professionals.  “Many Michigan small businesses will feel the loss.  For every professional job that is lost, three times the impact is felt on small business.  I lose the revenue. I can’t spend, expand, or hire anyone.  I have to layoff two great workers; single mothers who have been with me for over five years.” 

Michigan, USA – Chaldean entrepreneurs have always fought to compete against the cold giant retailers.  “We do this on a personal level.  We reach out to our customers and make sure they are happy.  We support the community and give back,” says Eddie Katoola, manager of Grail of Gorcers in Highland Park.  Grail of Grocers fresh produce and meats remind customers of the days long gone, when butchers knew your name and shared community recipes.  

The success of Chaldean business owners is there ability to offer customers wonderful products and services and great prices.  It’s the reason why so many Chaldean businesses have been able to outperform major competitors.  The long standing tradition of offering valued goods is remarkable. 

Across town, Johnny Karmo, owner and manager of Market Fresh is offering his customers a most unique product.  Karmo wants his customers to have the most unique pumpkins on their block. 

Michigan, USA – Chaldean business owners are disappointed over continued efforts to stain independent grocers.  “This is bad.  These people don’t speak for us.  Our produce and foods are fresh.  This is just another way to take money from stores owners and give them nothing in return,” says Kamal Dally, owner of Riverside Liquor in Detroit. 

Dally is upset over an initiative announced at a private business meeting among Chaldeans, under the approving eye of Detroit’s new Mayor Ken Cockrel Jr. that Chaldean store owners be asked to join a “Guaranteed Fresh” campaign for their stores.

Dally, and many other business owners feel the business group sold-out the Chaldean business community to gain political points with the new mayor and raise money for their own pet projects.  “They don’t care about Chaldean businesses.  All they care about is using the community name to take money from those who work so they can play golf,” says Dally’s son Thomas.  “Why didn’t they propose the city start a ‘Guarantee Response’ from the police every time a Chaldean store calls for help during an armed robbery or theft? 

Chaldeans are known for their congeniality and good-nature.  What would seem on the surface to be a wonderful trait, can become a huge risk in a corporate setting.  Chaldean professionals making their way through the corporate maze are forewarned that it’s easy to let imprudent information slip out. 

There are at least nine things Chaldeans or any professional minded go-getter should always keep to themselves at work. While some of these points are obvious, anyone who’s spent any time at all in an office can vouch for the fact that this advice bears repeating, and that heeding it could avoid a whole lot of unproductive drama.

California, USA - Catholic Answers Live invites Chaldeans to a number of possible job opportunities with Catholic Answers, the largest Catholic apologetics and evangelization organization in North America.  Catholic Answers has reached out to www.CHALDEAN.org asking for assistance in promoting a number of fantastic positions within their organization. 

One position invites Chaldeans to consider being a radio host.  Based out of El Cajon, California Catholic Answers is seeking a radio host for their Catholic Answers Live daily radio program. 

Catholic Answers is also offering Chaldeans around the world five other job opportunities in IT and customer service. 

Michigan, USA - Today, many homeowners are unable to make their monthly mortgage payments due to job loss, health issues or an adjusting ARM and are opting to do a foreclosure. The government bailout of banks will not offer much reassurance and those choosing to walk away from their home, especially Chaldeans, might consider a few things first. 

A foreclosure ruins a borrower’s credit for about 10 years, making them unable to buy another home, purchase a new car, impact businesses loans, or even prevent them from getting a new job.

Shrewd Chaldeans are considering a little known option for homeowners called a “Short-Sale”.

Planning a wedding is surely one of the most romantic and exciting times in people’s lives. From the moment a couple gets engaged to the moment they say “I do”, couples are fully submerged in planning for the big day. Furthermore, the excitement of engagement prevents many from realizing that there are other events that must be planned during the engagement period. This can be extremely stressful and time consuming, particularly in today’s day and age where couples are both working and/or going to school full time.

As a full time wedding coordinator who realizes the complexity of planning big events, it is no surprise to me when married couples approach me after the fact and say, “I wish I would have hired a wedding planner when I was getting married!”  And you may ask, why?

The economic explosion continues to ripple throughout the country.  Calls for taxpayers to bailout private companies for fear of an economic downturn plays on every network and old guard paper media outfits.  “You only seem to get the real news from talk radio and the Internet,” says Bashar Jarbow.  “You can’t trust the TV networks or newspapers anymore.”

Jarbow has good cause to be disillusioned.  However, hidden in some news pages were weak warnings of the looming economic crisis.  Fadi Faraj of Chicago, Illinois e-mails www.CHALDEAN.org an archived article in the New York Times back Business Page titled, Fannie Mae Eases Credit To Aid Mortgage Lending. 

Faraj, highlights the intense pressure from the Clinton Administration to force mortgage loans to low and moderate income people.   Congressional leaders arm twisted private banks to make more subprime loans to borrowers whose incomes, credit ratings and savings are not good enough to qualify for conventional loans.

California, USA –Chaldean business leaders are fast feeling the pinch as banks are reluctant to even give payroll loans on verified accounts receivables.  With the U.S. Economy on the verge of bankruptcy Chaldeans are still befuddled with how this could be possible. 

Sarmad Khomoro, of Bay Side Liquor in Los Angeles puts it this way, “If one customer asks me to loan him some money and that he will pay me back next month, I can handle it if he doesn’t pay his debt, it’s only one person.  Now, if the city of Los Angeles passes a law that tells me I have to give everyone who asks me a loan and the city will back-me-up if they don’t pay me-back.  I am going to give loans to hundreds of people because I want to get more customers and make them happy.  I don’t care if they can pay it back or not, since the city promised me they would bail me out if there was a problem.”

Khomoro’s example is pretty much exactly what happened on a national level with banks.  Banks were reassured that bad loans would be protected by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.  www.CHALDEAN.org Michigan columnist Sam Yousif wrote that the blame lies with Democrats.  The article created a flurry of e-mails.  Over forty-two e-mails were sent asking for more information.  So we put our California business reporter, David Najor on the task.  This is what Najor reports...

It all began with the CRA (Community Reinvestment Act) that quickly turned into a thief’s bank in the early 90's.   The Los Angeles Times reported that, starting in 1992, a majority-Democratic Congress "mandated that Fannie and Freddie increase their purchases of mortgages for low-income and medium-income borrowers. Operating under that requirement, Fannie Mae, in particular, has been aggressive and creative in stimulating minority gains."

Michigan, USA - “Me and my wife work over seventy hours a week.  We make all our payments and when we can’t afford something we don’t buy it,” says Sam Kalesho.  “Our government is going crazy.  They are stealing from us all.  They want more taxes, charge us more for electricity, and killing America. Whoever’s fault this is should never be in politics again.”

Kalesho is surprised when a customer of his yells out, “Then get the Democrats out of office.”  Trevor Raddison, shopping at Lakeside Liquor blames the Democrats for the economic collapse.  “McCain himself tried to stop Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac in 2006.  He predicted this tragedy and the Democrats blocked him.  Democrats are bought and sold.  Fannie and Freddie paid millions to the Democrats to protect them while they were cooking the books.  They gave protection paybacks to Obama, Biden, Clinton, and Dodd.  They act like they are for the working man, but they aren’t.  To them it is all a front.  Immigration, not allowing us to drill in America, not allowing people the right to work, Democrats are crooks.  I burnt my democrat card a long time ago.”

Raddison is right that McCain was a leading proponent of the corruption in Fannie Mae and Freedie Mac, that have caused the economic stumble of America.   Congressional record shows that back in 2006 McCain hammers them for falsification of financial records. Ironically the leaders of the corrupt companies, including Franklin Raines and Jim Johnson, both worked as advisers to Barack Obama. 

Chaldean family businesses present a unique set of conflict resolution strategies at the workplace.  Conflicts at home or at the business, whether they’re interpersonal or purely business, are an unavoidable fact of the Chaldean family business life.

 But a disagreement doesn’t have to end with hardship and hurt feelings. Employing smart psychology can help younger Chaldeans handle conflict wisely with their seniors and end up with a solution that works best for everyone.

Dr. Nabil Rafou, a Chaldean social psychologist who is an expert in conflict resolution, negotiation, mediation and leadership, shares some of the tactics that work among Chaldean family businesses.  “These ten tips work particularly well given the Chaldean cultures blended history,” Dr. Rafou says.  

Michigan, USA - Frustrated Detroit Chaldean business owners breathe a sign of relief.  “Finally.  It took this long and cost so much for this city to see what kind of crook we had in office,” says Khalid Nalou, manager of Downtown Corner Market.  “He picked on small business from day one.  This man forced more business to leave a city than Katrina.  I moved my entire family from Detroit and was looking for another place to work.”

The infamous Democratic Mayor was not shy to share his dislike for small businesses in the city.  He often complained and organized attacks against convenient stores, gas stations, hardware stores, salons, and dollar retailers. 

“He upset and offended so many people.  He was arrogant and thought he was a lion.  Now he is a mouse.  When you are sel;fish and not humble, this is what happens,” says Nalou.   Kilpatrick will shamefully resign, serve 120 days in jail, and pay $1M restitution. 

Michigan, USA - Often food of the ethnic variety is a cultured taste where so much is tied to familial memories and good times.  A whiff of a favorite dish can transcend you back to a fond experience.  Add to the memories a combination of authentic spices and learned taste buds and you have a native’s perspective of their own cuisine. 

However, to someone less adjusted to the culture, culinary experience, or learned taste buds you might find a completely different perspectives.  Jane Slaughter, food critic of Detroit Metro Times recently shared her insight of New Sahara located in Farmington Hills, Michigan.  This is what she had to say…

California, USA - “Few would argue that the energetic entrepreneurs have transformed small business in metropolitan areas of Michigan, California, Illinois, Arizona, and Nevada,” says Rebecca Cohen of California’s Bank & Trust speaking of Chaldeans.  “They are hard-working, brilliant in business, and have a remarkable talent for negotiations.”

Although the accolades and praise rings true to many, Chaldean business owners still remind budding entrepreneurs to be mindful of banks when doing business. 

“Banks are like any other business.  Their inventory is currency.  They want to buy currency when it is inexpensive and sell or loan to you at a higher rate,” says Masood Bajou.  “Chaldeans in business or not, should always keep a close eye on their banks and the fees they charge.”

Increasingly, banks are finding ways to impose bigger and trickier fees on account holders.  Uncovering the creative ways banks assess fees and other hidden costs to their customers was no easy task.  Nonetheless, Chaldeans should be watchful over some of the sneakiest fees and quickly master ways you can avoid them...

California, USA  – The event is planned from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday in the southwest parking lot of the El Cajon Wal-Mart, 605 Fletcher Parkway.

The event is free and open to all county residents. E-waste includes old computers, TVs, stereo equipment, phones and other items that can't be thrown in the trash.  Household appliances and batteries will not be accepted.

Also on Saturday at the El Cajon Wal-Mart, San Diego Gas & Electric is partnering with Electronic Disposal Group for a light bulb exchange.

Michgian, USA - Tough economic times in Michigan have made it difficult on many Chaldean families.  Without a doubt, a large majority of Chaldeans have their own business or employ other Chaldeans.  The combination of cultural flexibility and understanding, language, and the hard-work ethic desired has brought Chaldean employees and employers together. 

Recognizing the need, the Chaldean Education & Career Center (CE&CC) has partnered with Oakland County Workforce Development Corps to provide Chaldeans a convenient, one-stop access to job training programs and services for employers and job seekers.

We have convenient centers located in highly populated Chaldean residential areas to serve your needs. 

There are many things involved in establishing a new business. “One of the important steps is to protect yourself from hidden liabilities,” says tax clearance expert Debbie Kassa.   When buying or establishing a new business in Michigan, Taxpayers are required to meet certain obligations under Michigan law, including filing tax returns on time and with the correct payment when required.

Kassa is a decade long veteran of the Michigan Department of Treasury where she was in charge of reviewing Tax Returns from 1040's to the SBT & SUW returns. She also worked 7 years in the Tax Clearance Division reviewing Business accounts for Businesses & Corporations seeking a Tax Clearance.

Kassa advises every business owner on Successor Liability and how to best prepare or avoid such situations.  “When any Chaldean buys a business, even a portion of a business (including stock of goods or even the transfer of a liquor license), they may be held responsible for the previous owner's liabilities, regardless of any contractual language to the contrary.“

Michigan, USA – Detroit’s government tail spin has the entire nation talking about the once great city.  Residents and business owners are commenting that Detroit’s legacy of automobile and manufacturing innovation, entertainment, and education has crumpled to corruption, incompetence, and theft.  Detroit resident and and manager of Party City Beer and Wine in downtown Detroit, Martin Kouza says, “This City has challenges, but this can be a good chance for the city to change for the good.” 

The city’s mounting problems seem only to get worse.  Detroit’s embroiled Democratic Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick has been sentenced to jail time.  Once again across the nation the city has come under scrutiny, costing city business owners and residents considerably. 

The state of Michigan remains a battle ground for the presidential campaign and the city’s issues is casting a very dark cloud.  Democratic Presidential candidate Barrak Obama’s campaign made it clear that the Detroit mayor was not to attend any of Obama’s events, fearing negative attention. 

 “What is wrong with the Democratic party,” says Julie Yono, a member of the Downriver Young Democrats.  “We had a president, a New York and New Jersey governor, and now the mayor of Detroit, all disgraced over their lack of respect for women and the law.  This entire party is falling apart because of sex.  This is getting way out of control; I think it is time to leave the city and the party.”

California, USA - For many Chaldeans, the cell phone is a life-line to the family.  “Long hours at work, family members pulled in hundreds of different directions, constantly on the run; that’s the life of a Chaldean,” says Joseph Jirjis, store manager of Shop Cellular in El Cajon California.  “We have to stay in touch with one another.  That is how we are able to help one another and make sure everyone is safe.  Even my grandmother has a cell phone.”

Chaldeans often complained about the additional fees cell phone companies would add to a plan.  “They nickel and dime a customer to death,” Jirjis adds.  “Based on the company, we have to follow their plan, and they have all sorts of fees.  Many of our customers get shocked to see all the fees.”

The termination fee in particular upset many customers.  Cellular phone companies would sell contracts to customers and if a customer terminated their contract early an additional fee was added.    However, a Superior Court judge in California has ruled that the practice of charging consumers a fee for ending their cell phone contract early is illegal and violates state law.

Michigan, USA - It goes without saying that the Chaldean community holds remarkable wedding events.  Rich in Catholic tradition and Chaldean heritage these incredible events require a competent and experienced professional.  The planning that goes into such affairs are overwhelming.  Hiring an expert who has the right connections with the best vendors, has learned to become an ace negotiator to get you the best value or 'deal' for your money, and knows where to find all those unique and dazzling touches to transform your wedding into an absolute fantasy.

It was not so long ago that wedding consultants were thought of as a luxury to be used mainly by the wealthy and elite. Times have changed.  According to Modern Bride Magazine, over 50% of all American couples who married in 1999 used the services of wedding consultants, also commonly referred to as wedding coordinators, bridal consultants, and wedding planners.  In the Chaldean community that percentage is even higher and continues to rise. 

In Michigan, one impressive Chaldean wedding expert continues to wow the community and critics alike.  Weddings by Dalia, continues to win awards and is now in the finals for Michigan’s best of 2008.  The firm placed 5th best in 2007 and now is poised to be the top rated. 

The Chaldean community is showing their support by visiting the online voting booth  and casting Weddings by Dalia as their best choice for Wedding and event consultation.  On the site supporters like Nuha Roumayah, Sarah Eskander, Melody Kouza, Vonica Abouna, Jennifer Shunyia, Merfit Yaldo, and Joe Bahri applaud her amazing work, creativity, organization, and insight. 

For many Chaldean entrepreneurs, the idea of consulting a lawyer conjures up frightening visions of skyrocketing legal bills. While there's no denying that lawyers are unnecessarily expensive Chaldeans can employ these cost saving tips to keep cost down. 

First and foremost find an attorney you are comfortable talking with and can comfortably share how you feel.  The lawyer works for you and if they are intimidating or unwilling to make you comfortable don’t even begin discussing the case with them.  Lawyers are a dime a dozen, but each is betting on the fact that you will not do your research or spend the time to clarify the working arrangement, especially when it comes to billing. 

California, USA – Chaldeans living in Detroit, Michigan may feel they are close to the heart of the automotive world.  If that is the case, then Chaldeans in El Cajon, California would rightly consider themselves the lungs; breathing air back into the passion of classic car ownership. 

For Jason Jarboe classic cars has been a passion since he sat in his father’s lap and held on a steering wheel. “My dad and I would watch the dream cruise every year.  When our family moved to California I was bummed out.  So instead of mope about missing cars I would hang out with friends and supe-up classic cars.  All the different auto shops formed a small network and together with other we pushed to start a car cruise in Cajon”

Michigan, USA - Chaldean American Professionals (CAP) invites Chaldeans and their business friends to a breakfast business network meeting.  The meeting will be held this Friday, June 27 in the Southfield Town Center 4000 LaTerrace Mediterranean Restaurant from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. in the morning.  For a map of the Southfield Town Center, CLICK HERE.

The event is open to both Chaldeans and non-Chaldeans.  The event is free to CAP members and only $5 for non-members.  The event will include continental breakfast and a literature table for business cards, fliers, and literature.   Guests are reminded to bring plenty of business cards and to where name badges. 

The Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) kicked off an initiative today to convince the legislature to add a 10-cent deposit for water bottles.   This is the same group that originally pushed for Michigan to become the first state to require deposits on pop bottles.

The idea has come under harsh criticism from Chaldeans and many others in the business community, mainly those that would be responsible for handling all the new empty containers. 

Ever wonder what you can do to become the next Chaldean Millionaire.  Well it is not as hard as you may think.  Amassing wealth is more than just being able to earn money.  Breaking into the Chaldean Millionaire club requires a good understanding of investment. 

California, USA - A group of private Chaldean business leaders from California and Michigan has begun exploratory efforts in rescuing a failed commercial building on Broadway in El Cajon, California. 

The six unit building was forced into foreclosure by El Cajon City Council after ongoing disputes with the city’s nonprofit partner, Heartland.  The city entered into a partnership with the nonprofit in 1999 to buy and renovate the rundown building so that Heartland could offer job training and other programs there, but Heartland failed to make loan payments.

Due to informal bid discussions on commercial property in California, www.CHALDEAN.org was able to discover the major share owners of the hundred million dollar Chaldean group considering the purchase of the building.

Michigan, USA - Chaldean commercial realtors will have more access to a greater number of commercial listings.  The additional information will create new opportunities for Chaldean property owners to expand their property portfolios. 

The Commercial Board of Realtors’ listing information exchange has confirmed that two major commercial real estate houses will begin to share all their historical data and proprietary listings.

California, USA – “No Riza Maraka!  Who do I blame,” says Anthony Matti of Chula Vista, California.  Amid growing concerns of global rice shortage two of America’s biggest retailers place a limit on rice purchases.  Wal-Mart's warehouse chain Sam's Club, the largest warehouse and food grocery retailer in the US is limiting bulk purchases of rice this week, citing "recent supply and demand trends".  Seattle-based Costco Wholesale Corporation has also imposed limits in some stores on bulk rice purchases.

“I bet the limits are in Michigan, Chicago, Arizona, and here,” says Matti with a sly smile.  “It is no coincidence Chaldeans live mostly in those regions.  Chaldeans are eating too much rizza maraka (rice and stew) and we are causing a rice shortage.  What do you expect?  Chaldeans are not going to eat that fast food poison or restaurant filth.”

Chuckling over his own sense of humor, Matti does have a serious side.  The undergraduate student just submitted his final exam paper titled the Economic Food Web.

Matti says that world rice prices have more than doubled in the past year as demand has outstripped supply.  “The culprits include the drought-ravaged rice crop shortage, alternative fuel technologies, global population growth, speculation on food prices, and rise in traditional fuel prices.” 

California, USA – Less than a week after his swearing in ceremony, El Cajon, California’s new police chief, Pat Sprecco,  has been the talk of the town in the Chaldean business community.   Chief Sprecco replaces Cliff Diamond, who retired Friday and was a strong supporter of business safety and crime prevention. 

"My goal of course would be to address crime issues in El Cajon, to make it a safe and as pleasant a community for folks to live in," Sprecco said.

Chaldean business owners are eager to hear from the new police chief and learn about any new initiatives in preventing and protecting small business owners in the city.  “We know Captain Sprecco, well now chief,  is experienced, highly qualified, and respectful of small business owners.  We look forward to his support and leadership,” said Kalla, who’s family owns Bay Liquor in El Cajon.

Michigan,USA - The youth and beauty of a Chaldean is all too obvious.  The unique diet, good genes, olive toned skin, frequent cleanings, and skin care management secrets all contribute to the youthful beauty.  This unique trait is something the Nordstrom retailer took notice, and hopes to leverage, at the opening of their new store in the Mall at Partridge Creek. 

The store has contracted with Joanne Recchia-Kallabat’s company SkinOnyx, the U.S. distributor for Italy’s Kleraderm skin care products to make the product available in the cosmetics section of the new Nordstrom. 

"It feels like I brought Nordstrom with me," she said of her return.  The only other U.S. store that carries Kleraderm is the Nordstrom in Troy's Somerset Collection, where they've earned a strong following over the past three years.  "Nordstrom calls them 'Kleranets' because they only want Kleraderm products," Recchia-Kallabat said.  Kleraderm is an advanced skin care line developed by a doctor in Bologna, Italy.  "It really works," Recchia-Kallabat said. "It's been a beauty secret of the stars for years."

London, UK- Britain’s Royal Society of Medicine (RSM) had organised a ceremony in honour of Chaldean businessman Nadhmi Auchi, Chairman of General Mediterranean Holding (GMH), and President of the Anglo Arab Organisation (AAO).  The ceremony, which took place at the RSM building in London, was in appreciation of Auchi’s efforts in supporting the cause of medicine in the United Kingdom, which included funding medical research projects and sponsorships.

Present at the ceremony were a number of Arab Ambassadors, British Lords and MPs, and prominent figures in the medical profession. As a token of gratitude, the RSM has named the main hall in his name “The Nadhmi Auchi Foyer".

California, USA - Three hooded and masked burglars smashed their way into the Ramona Market on Main Street Sunday, March 2, at midnight.   Having disabled the store’s redundant security alarm systems, the burglars rampaged through the store for 30 minutes, breaking registers with a crow bar, strewing papers and inventory all around the store, smashing bottles, and destroying as much as stealing.  Security cameras captured the burglary, showing the robbers wearing hooded sweatshirts, or “hoodies,” over ski masks and wearing gloves.

Main phone lines were cut before they even started the break-in, said store owner Rami Yousif after ordering a third redundancy on the store’s security system. Damage and theft add up to more than $40,000, he said.  Safety was one of the most important reasons the Yousif family bought the Ramona Market, Yousif said.

“My family chose Ramona when we bought the store 15 years ago because it was a nice place to be at, people seemed to be nice, willing to do business. We knew that it would be safe,” he said.  “Five years ago there were times when I forgot to lock the door overnight and everything would be untouched. It was Ramona.”

Not anymore.

Every Chaldean business entrepreneur is in business to make a profit.  That means having customers, and lots of them.  It goes without saying that location is important.  Having a hotel by an airport, business district, or entertainment district is a “no brainer”.    Opening a store at the crossroads of a busy intersection or highly dense residential area is just as simple.  So simple that you will find four convenient stores facing one another or two hotels across the street from one another.  Location is one of the primary deciding factors for guests. 

If the hotels are next door to each other; one isn’t closer to the airport.  One isn’t closer to downtown. If the location could sustain a million dollars in sales and there are four stores vying for that million we can safely estimate $250,000 each.  Can we?  Will each business operate the same?  Will each owner carry the same goods or offer the same service?  Drive by any corner crowded with businesses and you would be stunned at how similar they are.  There is nothing unique about any of them.  They are virtually indistinguishable from each other.

Limited business entrepreneurs turn to the easiest solutions to differentiate their business.   Lower prices or give more goods away.  This simplistic solution may be a good short term solution but in the long run hurts the business.   The long term fix for any Chaldean business owner is to differentiate their business by offering better service and developing meaningful customer relationships.

And this is how to do it…..

California, USA – “Everything I have worked so hard for over the past four years, I have lost in one night,” said owner Andy Kakoz.

A crowd of about 50 people gathered across the street to watch firefighters douse the flames of a million dollar discount store in Downtown El Cajon, California. At one point, water from three ladder trucks was being poured on the roof while firefighters on the ground busted windows to pour water on the flames. Firefighters from four agencies fought to bring the fire under control. Even two hours after it started, some flames were still coming of the roof.

Michigan, USA - "My clients are bleeding to the tune of about half a million per month," says Shallal, a shareholder in the Southfield, Mich.-based law firm Mekani Orow Mekani Shallal Hakim & Hindo PC.

Nearly 115 Chaldean property investors have joined hands to teach Ginn Co. a costly lesson. 

The federal suit alleges the Celebration-based developer misled them on the investment potential of nearly 130 home sites in four luxury communities in Florida.  The Chaldean investors claim Ginn Co. violated interstate land laws, SEC rules, perpetuated a Ponzi scheme after buying lots in Bella Collina, Reunion and other Fla. communities.

The Chaldean plaintiffs include well known and respected community leaders outraged over the alleged deceit and deception. 

Michigan, USA- In a little less than a few years, brothers Matt and Marc Jonna have added their second specialty gorcery store Plum Market in Ann Arbor.  Ann Arbor residents have fast filled the isles of the high-end grocery store. 

"We can't wait for Plum Market to become an active part of the unique community that is Ann Arbor," says co-founder Matthew Jonna. "We're looking forward to creating an environment where friends and neighbors can shop, share and just generally have a great experience."

The upscale grocer's 28,000 square feet in the Maple Village Shopping Center takes up most of the space of what was once the Foxtown movie theater.  This is the grocer's second location. Its first is in Bloomfield Township. There are also plans for one in downtown Royal Oak in the second phase of the Main North Lofts development and future ones throughout Metro Detroit.

Illinois, USA – Chaldeans congratulate the bold move made by Mayor Jerry Schweighart.  The mayor issued an emergency order restricting alcohol sales in the Campustown area.  The order applies to this coming Friday and Saturday, Feb. 29-March 1, and is similar to the emergency order issued last year.

“The uniform rules help restaurants and party stores better serve the public,” says Jason Kemmo of Windy City Liquor.  “This is safe and fair for all those who serve and purchase alcohol.  It worked great last year and we are happy to see it again this year.  Students get carried away and most of the alcohol is served at parties which is dangerous for the public and the students.

Chaldean entrepreneurs know how hard it is to make a buck without shoplifters helping themselves to their inventory. How do you stop them?

According to the research conducted by National Retail Federation and the University of Florida, Shoplifters in America account for over $13 billion of the total $41 billion in annual losses due to "shrinkage" (including employee theft, shoplifting, administrative error and vendor fraud).

Chaldean entrepreneurs know how frustrating theft can be when margins are slim and continue to get slimmer.  Shrinkage eats up 1.6% of the industry's sales--a huge number considering that giants Wal-Mart, Costco, Home Depot, Kroger, and Walgreen post an average profit margin of only 3.6%, according to Reuters Global Fundamentals.

What is a Chaldean business owner to do?

Chaldean entrepreneurs will mostly agree that buying a business is not simple; in fact, it is almost similar to starting a new venture. The struggle of finding a business that matches your capabilities and investigating the business potential to remain profitable is just the beginning.  Buying a business requires the same thoroughness as creating a business plan for starting a business. 

Edward Putrus, owner of West Coast Electrical Warehouse Supplies in Arizona says the ability to make a good business great is different than creating a new business.  Anthony Jurjus, an associate partner in the firm Rosen, Russel, and Silverman Consulting, PLC is a commercial real estate agent and business broker who often helps Chaldeans in finding and buying businesses.  “Anyone buying a business needs to do be careful, have a strategy, be patient, and persistent,” says Jurjus. 

Jurjus suggest Chaldeans follow a 10-step process in guarantying the business they buy is the right one. 

When Joseph Garmo attended a Chaldean wedding, he never imagined that he would hear the benefits of his own product begin shared by a fellow guest. 

There at the table, says Garmo, another guest seated with the group began to share his excitement for a new product our firm developed to help reduce check cashing fraud.  "It was like a totally unsolicited sales pitch" for the Michigan-based firm helping the Chaldean community deal with the rash of check fraud.  “The Michigan economy is horrible. Add low morals with a poor economy and you get lots and lots of crime,” says Garmo.  “Chaldeans in large part are victims of these crimes and not much is done to help them.  We wanted to change that.”

Garmo explains how the table guest began what would continue on as a 15- to 20-minute discussion between the guests at the table about his company's product. “It was hard to keep quiet, but I did.  I wanted to hear what they would say,” he says. “I wanted to learn if our idea could make a difference.”

It was also the moment he realized the power of his connections. He hadn't spent a dime on marketing his product and before him was a table filled with his target market discussing his Check cashing prevention system.  Listening to the Chaldean business talk, Garmo realized where the guest had learned about his product. 

How did he do it?

Johnny Bitti hopes to sell his home before July.  Raymond Kalu, Century 21 Hometown agent from Sterling Heights, Michigan says, “Bitti needs to start thinking about how to make his home stand out from the rest.  The trick is to spend time and money on fix-ups, getting the house to look neat and open instead of spending money on remodeling projects.” 

Kalu seems to have his hand on the pulse of the market.  Remodeling magazine completed a study of homeowners across America and the result is that the owners aren't recouping as many improvement costs as they could in recent years.   In fact, real-estate agents advise clients not to overdo it, regardless of what the local market conditions are like.

The investment for any remodeling projects is added to the selling price of the home.  Chaldean real-estate agents say that the buyers market is fiercely competitive and sellers will have trouble selling a home with value added costs added to the bottom line.   The reason is that asking prices are based largely on comparisons with similar homes in the area, Kalu says. “And in the many markets that aren't exactly booming right now, buyers have more negotiating power over the price of a home,” he adds.

www.CHALDEAN.org contacted a number of Chaldean real-estate agents and asked them for their best tips for Chaldean homeowners looking to sell.  Here is what they had to say…

California, USA - Chaldeans are very fast learners.  All it took was a number of passengers in 1999 that were stranded in Detroit Metro Airport in Michigan to sue Northwest airlines for wrongful imprisonment.  The 11 hour snowstorm and Northwest’s decision to keep everyone on board affected 7,000 passengers and ultimately cost them $7 million in an out of court settlement. 

Unlike Chaldeans in Michigan, Kate Hanni can’t stand the cold.  The California resident made that painfully clear after American Airlines diverted her flight for more than eight hours a year ago.  The law suite filed by Hanni and another passenger alleges false imprisonment, fraud and negligence. 

“Chaldeans are fed up of being taken advantage of because of our accents, hard-work ethics, or family togetherness.  From my personal experience, people are envious of Chaldeans and don’t like the fact that we are a devoted community,” says Ann Kareem, a Michigan native who was part of the Northwest class action suit.  “Homeowner’s association try to take advantage of Chaldeans, school districts, and clubs do the same because they think they can get away with it or are upset that Chaldeans are successful or how our family’s remain so close.  Whatever the reason, you can ask any Chaldean and they will tell you they are often treated unfairly. I am glad Kate is suing in California, more Chaldeans need to sue.”

California, USA - Chaldeans have long complained of the unfair practices of distributors.  However, the lack of an organized business voice has left Chaldean store owners with slimmer margins and less service.  “Distributors have long capitalized on the backs of Chaldean community who maintain a market for products in areas where retail giants fear to tread,” says Nick Mansour, owner of Gas and Go in Dearborn, Michigan.  “They pre-price their products, refuse to take damage goods, and treat the businesses with a lack of respect.  How can we compete and give customers a better price when the distributor forces you to charge a certain amount.”

Lobbyist groups like the Anti-Saloon League long convinced U.S. politicians that it was in the country’s best interest to give distributors free market protective status.  They made the case so effectively that, even after Prohibition was lifted in 1933, most states insisted on keeping alcohol manufacturers far away from alcohol sellers. The favored solution: a three-tier distribution system requiring manufacturers to sell to wholesalers, and wholesalers to sell to retailers.

A system Chaldeans have long contested as a state sanctioned monopoly that hurts the consumer.  All that may soon change, when giant warehouse retailer Costco weighs in on what Chaldeans have long said, “Distributors are anti-competitive.”   

New York, USA - Every day Chaldeans are bombarded with one persuasive message after another. These messages convince Chaldeans not through reasoning, but through manipulation.  They target the foolish by agitating emotions, exploiting insecurities, capitalizing on the ambiguity of language, and by bending the rules of logic.

Most all businesses use marketing and advertisement to help sell their products.  However, there are industries that have emphasized branding in order to overcharge gullible consumers.  They target those with little achievement to their name, those who are insecure about their look, weight, or reputation, or those unsure of themselves.

Some key industry leaders are experts on preying on the insecure and those with low self-esteem and a desire to belong.  “It is like make-up for their insecurities,” says Semara Rayes, a marketing researcher and ad campaign specialist who works for an undisclosed top New York advertising firm.  “We conduct the research and marketing campaign that gives useless products some use.”  Semara attests to using psychological warfare against vulnerable consumers in order to get them to buy a specific clothing line or convince them that jewelry is important or to engineer a new fad. 

Lots of research has gone into the study of mass consumer manipulation.  The result is a strategy that is simple but closely guarded called Complimentary Emotions says Semara.  “First, we expose the consumer to a subtle negative emotion and then make an overt claim that the showcased product can make them feel happy.”  That strategy has made all the difference in getting consumers to spend and at times to go into severe debt. 

In this one-on-one candid interview Semara Rayes explains the inside tricks of the fashion marketing trade. 

Arizona, USA - Chaldeans are helping to set new trends this Christmas.  “Out is the worn out practice of buying brand name gifts from malls.  In is finding the unique and rare custom gift that really shows you care, says Julie Polis.  “Finding something that really shows you care has absolutely nothing to do with how expensive the gift is, but how much thought went into getting the gift.”

Polis, like many other Chaldeans are looking for unique and custom gifts to give.  “Portrait painting, embroidered photos, custom music of jewelry, a sculpture, or bronzed shoes of the new child, are all good examples of great gifts,” says Polis.  “The gift has to be memorable.  To be memorable it has to be unique.  There is this great Chaldean jeweler in Arizona that has her own jewelry line.  She hand-makes these limited edition masterpieces that are perfect for that special someone.”

Polis refers to Nat’s Candy.  A custom jewelry boutique based in Arizona and owned by Chaldean entrepreneur Natalie Karmo.  The former actress turned artist was featured as Arizona’s top artist.  Her company has been featured in top fashion magazines.  Her jewelry line includes unique designs of gemstones and Swarovski crystal.  The limited edition production jewelry has made her the talk of the town.

Michigan, USA - Chaldean artist, author, and historian Amer Fatuhi looks to raise funds for the English translation release of his definitive and encyclopedia work titled, The Untold Story of the Native Iraqis / Chaldeans.   The book authoritatively documents the cradle of civilization circa 5300 BC until present time.  The first edition was written in Arabic and has received rave reviews.  Now, Fatuhi hopes to have the 400 page academic study translated into the Franca lingua of the modern world; English. 

The diligent author worked two yeas and spent over a quarter of century researching the history of the region.  The book illuminates the antiquity of Babylon and the indigenous people of the region next to other well known and obscure ethnic groups.  The books exquisite maps, illustrations, historical documents, and research weave a compelling documentary of Iraq’s long history.  Fatuhi captures the struggles of the Jewish people alongside Chaldeans and other Iraqi natives as they move through time.

Dr. Abdul Hadi Al Khalili, America’s cultural Attaché at the Embassy of Iraq gives the book high remarks and considers the work worthy of academic and historical value. 

Hoping to release the English translation of his Arabic second edition by the end of 2008, Fatuhi seeks supporting donors.  “The world needs to hear the The Untold Story of the Native Iraqis, which has been suppressed for centuries, wiped out from the Iraqi educational system, and the public domain,” says the author.

One question that Chaldeans must answer when starting a business is “What legal business structure is the best for their business?”  This is one of the most important questions a Chaldean entrepreneur must ask.  Particularly for Chaldeans who plan on providing goods or services to residents trapped in high crime areas. 

The business legal form can have significant implications on the amount of money Chaldeans pay in taxes, their personal risk in the business, as well as their ability to get loans or raise money. Prior to making a final decision Chaldean entrepreneurs should religiously explore their options. 

Chaldeans have a handful of options when choosing what legal form their business is to take.  There legal forms are sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies/partnerships (LLCs /LLPs), and incorporations (either C-corporations or S-corporations).  The idea is to structure your business in the best way possible to help you succeed. 

What follows here are the issues of liability protection, business appreciation, active versus passive income, and retrained earnings in the business.  Chaldean entrepreneurs should understand how their business should be structured in order to help them when dealing with these issues.

Michigan, USA - Detroit-based NextEnergy, the state's alternative energy incubator, was excited when Mark Yaldo decided to get involved.  Mr. Yaldo, owner of the Southfield Sunoco became the first Ethanol 85 alternative fueling station, located in Southfield Michigan. 

The pioneering entrepreneur boldly claims that caring for customers and the planet are not contradicting concepts.  His mission to help establish and encourage other entrepreneurs install biofuel pump options throughout metro Detroit struck a cord with the state’s Governor.

Governor Granholm personally made a visit to help Mr. Yaldo launch his grand opening.  The two stood side-by-side as they cut the ceremonial red ribbon and opened the biofuel pump.  To further entice and encourage customers to use the alternative fuel, Mr. Yaldo offered a gallon of E85 way below cost at $2.49. 

How did it go?

Michigan, USA - A once dilapidated and run-down historical facility has been rescued.  A reincarnation of the venerable old Stephenson Club has opened as the Stephenson Haus banquet facility.  Officials from Hazel Park and Madison Heights recently welcomed new owners Frank Sitto, Sam Denha and Amer Dado at a ribbon-cutting ceremony.  The Chaldean business leaders took charge and rescued the historical darling and brought back the magic.  The Stephenson Haus banquet facility will be able to serve over 600 guests in elegance.

Claifornia, USA - Learn how to adapt your marketing strategy to the needs and wants of the growing Chaldean demographic.  If they're not on your marketing radar, chances are you're already one step behind your competition. The Chaldean population is growing exponentially, and their purchasing power far outpaces other cultural groups.

According to CulturalIntelligence, the Chaldean groups in southeast Michigan and California  spending power has skyrocketed and is projected to grow significantly stronger. The latest U.S. Census Bureau figures demonstrate high concentration of Chaldeans with large amounts of dispensable income. 

California, USA - In the life of every being that walks this planet, there is a purpose that is to be fulfilled before their time here is complete. Whether it be carrying out a career that may change the lives of many, creating a family of his own and protecting them, or just living a life that is alive with faith, hope and love… every mission is unique. It is vital in life to have confidence in understanding that the value of every accomplishment and deed done, be it big or small, is still so very great. For it is in the words of the Blessed Mother Theresa who proclaimed that, “Little things are indeed little, but to be faithful in little things is a great thing.”

Over in The Golden State, better known as California, a great man by the name of Gregory Acho is believed to have found what so many seek: their calling in life. But this calling, this purpose he prays to fulfill successfully, is not for his own pleasure, but is for people in his community that he yearns to reach out to and help by leading them to an improved stage in their life.

Acho, 30, founder of Conscious Contact, Inc., a non-profit sober living organization (rehabilitation clinic) are helping Americans overcome the strenuous process of staying sober. Acho adds that it is not as simple as it sounds, just “staying sober” or fighting an addiction, but that it is “[much] deeper than that. We provide support for each person to look within themselves and make contact, Conscious Contact, with who and what they have always been.” 

Michigan, USA - It is a seller’s market in many Chaldean concentrated states.    While the economy is doing great in states like Illinois, Nevada, Arizona, and California, Michigan’s economy continues to free-fall.  In Michigan the real estate opportunities are far and wide as the buyer market continues to heat up as homes are foreclosed, residents move out of the state, and businesses close.  Chaldeans can seize on the opportunity of depressed Michigan economy by finding and securing an undervalued piece of property. 

There are many advantages of becoming a home owner.  This includes the appreciation, tax benefits, a higher quality lifestyle, a more stable family life, and obviously the investment.

Chaldeans are able to better prepare themselves when planning to purchase a home.  For such occasions consider these 5 Chaldean home buying power tips.

Illinois, USA - More than half of Chaldeans will pay someone to prepare their tax returns this year.  An even larger number have paid thousands of dollars throughout the year on bookkeepers and accountant services.  How do you know you received a great value?   Can you negotiate your fees? 

Tax professionals like any other profession talk shop and share insights. They tell other professionals things they won't tell you, including stuff that could help you deal with your own tax pro and maybe even save you money, if only you knew.

Here are five things Chaldeans probably have never been told by a tax pro:

Chaldean business consultant Raad Yono says Wal-Mart’s alignment with liberal causes is out of threat and fear.  “Wal-Mart has been bullied around by Democrats and forced to give to causes they traditionally would not align with,” says Yono.  The consultant responding after www.CHALDEAN.org reported of Wal-Mart’s contribution to homosexual causes and decision to carry the abortion pill. 

The retailer has always cherished successful values that enrich lives and lay the foundation for success Yono says.  “But the pressure from Democrats has become unbearable as political operatives put the squeeze on Wal-Mart and coerce them into supporting liberal causes that run counter to Wal-Mart’s success.”

 Wal-Mart may be expanding in the People's Republic of China, but here in capitalist America the low-price retailer has become the Democratic Party's favorite pinata. The media like to portray this as a populist uprising against heartless big business. But what they don't bother to disclose is that this entire get-Wal-Mart campaign is a political operation led and funded by organized labor and the Democratic party.

Michigan, USA – Activist Abeer Shaya sees the writing on the wall.  A law student at University of Michigan and scholar of religious history, Shaya says Christian humiliation is a precursor to Christian persecution.  “In ancient times, Christians were mocked, harassed, belittled, and humiliated.  Kids were taught Christians ate their children and were the cause of natural disasters because they refused to worship many Gods.”

The Chaldean legal and historical scholar adds that Christians were first humiliated and then made to be scapegoats.  “While Christians kept to themselves, their values and virtues made them act in ways that drew attention from Romans.  They acted piously and their virtues and values contrasted with the Roman way of life.  Humiliation and insult is the building of a runway so the plane of persecution can land.”
 
Shaya adds that Christians today are obviously under attack; their holidays are corrupted, stripped, and commercialized into meaninglessness by anti-Christian groups.   As the Christmas season draws near Chaldeans like Shaya are making clear they are steering away of businesses that attempt to dilute or corrupt the Christmas holy day.  

Best Buy has announced they will be using "Happy Holidays" this coming Christmas shopping season, and they will not be using "Merry Christmas."

Michgian, USA - "There's over 100 growers within a two-hour drive from here ... we're talking about Michigan blueberries, peaches, apples and honey," he said. "Whenever we're able to support our local farmers, that's what we're going to do," says Mathew Jonna. 

Rebounding from their sale of the Merchant of Vino, the Jonna family has kept a low profile.  According to Matt Jonna, son of Merchant of Vino owner Ed Jonna and a managing partner in the family business, Whole Foods approached the Jonnas with an offer too good to resist: 1.03 million shares of common stock, valued at an excess of $40 million.

Many in the Chaldean community thought the family would embark on community philanthropy.  “It is well known that great business people find ways to help others.  Many thought the Jonna family would do just that, start scholarships, foundations, community centers, or help remove barriers holding other Chaldeans back,” says Jamal Aboud, financial advisor and banker.  “It seems they are not quite done focusing all their efforts on business.  It will be exciting to see what they come up with next.”

Guest reporter Molly Abraham of the Detroit News (Michigan, USA) reports:

Ohio, USA - For years, Randa Shallal has been sweetening up family and friends with a secret-recipe concoction she describes as a "fabulously fudgy cocoa peanut sauce that's great on ice cream, pretzels, cookies, or even just a spoon."

Thanks to a new commercial food-processing facility at the Agricultural Incubator Foundation on State Rt. 582 north of Bowling Green, she's found an economically feasible way to begin bottling and selling her "Panda Potion No. 5" commercially.

Shallal says, "It was by learning of this facility that I had an epiphany that I could do this," she said. "I always knew I couldn't do anything commercially in my own home. ... I was at a [Women's Entrepreneurial Network] meeting in November when a woman stood up and talked about this kitchen, and it came over me like a wave: I can do this."

Michigan, USA - Chaldean entrepreneur Mark Garmo has always found ways to meet the needs of his customers. 

Mr. Garmo, professes a passion for customer service and his recent appeal before the Grosse Pointe Farms proves just that.  Village Food Market shoppers can still expect to be greeted by displays of produce and flowers around the store’s Mack entry.