Driving the Way

The CCF’s H.E.A.L. (Hard of Hearing, E.S.L., American Sign Language, Life Skills) Project is using a state-of-the-art driving simulator to help deaf students to learn how to drive. The H.E.A.L. Project helps better equip those with hearing impairments to live independent lives. Assisted by an American Sign Language interpreter for the deaf, the group will learn how to become licensed drivers.

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Preserving History through Art

Nearly 700 attendees had the opportunity to experience the land between two rivers through paintings, woodwork and sculptures at the 2nd Annual Beth Nahrain Art Show held at the Chaldean Community Foundation November 3-5.

Featured artists included Reni Stephan, Sabah Wazi, Azhr Matti, Wilson Sarkis, Mark Georgies, Cassidy Azzow, Fr. Patrick Setto, Emad Tammo, Habib Hannona and Savannah Meyer. Proceeds from the event benefited the victims of the Bakhdida wedding fire through a fundraising effort supported by Nineveh Rising.

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Planning for College Costs

Prospective college students and their families attended the Oakland University Admissions and Financial Aid Night on November 15. Guests were able to meet with Oakland University staff and ask questions about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the associated costs of higher education, and the overall admissions process.

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Yuletide Good Times

Michigan winters can be brutal. Between the cold weather, dark and early nights, and ice storms, it can be easy to fall into a seasonal depression and adopt a very mundane routine. But just because it can be that way does not mean it has to be that way. There are so many avenues to enjoy winter in Michigan with your family, and you can finally have answers to the dreaded question from the kids who are home from school this Christmas break when they ask, “What are we doing today?”

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CARF Accreditation

The Chaldean Community Foundation was recently issued a three-year CARF accreditation for the following programs and services:

• Short-Term Immigration Support Services

• Outpatient Treatment: Mental Health (Adults)

• Outpatient Treatment: Mental Health (Children and Adolescents)

The accreditation extends through October 31, 2026.

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Chaldean News Staff
One-on-One with Fr. John "Junior" Jwad

Fr. John: So many people are truly touched simply by the presence of a priest. Whether it be a joyous or sad event, just the presence of a priest makes such a difference in that person’s life. The role of a priest is to be an example of Christ, and our Chaldean Church theology teaches us that a priest is to be a mediator between God and the people. The priest should be an example, a role model, a leader – that helps people become, not more like him, but become more like God.

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First Tango with Mango: Iraqi Amba

In the world of culinary delights, few things can match the mouthwatering tang and flavor offered by a good old-fashioned Iraqi mango pickle (amba). To tell the story of amba, or as it is popularly known in India, Aam ka Achar, we must begin with the story of Indian Ocean trade and the long-standing historical network of merchants who traversed this massive body of water for millennia bringing spices, people, and ideas to Basra-Iraq from all directions.

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Tragedy in Bakhdida

In the heart of the Nineveh Plain province, the close-knit town of Bakhdida (also known as Qaraqosh) grapples with a devastating tragedy that left them searching for answers and healing. The horrific fire that engulfed the Al-Haitham wedding hall during the bride and groom’s slow dance on September 26, 2023, sent shockwaves through the town and beyond.

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A Salute to Chaldean American Veterans

In the rich tapestry of American diversity, the Chaldean community stands out as a vibrant example of immigrants who have not only embraced the American dream but have also contributed significantly to the country’s defense. With a deep sense of patriotism and a commitment to safeguarding the freedoms they’ve come to know, Chaldean Americans in every generation have a proud tradition of serving in the United States military. Hundreds of men and women have joined the effort to protect and serve.

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Meet Fr. John “Junior” Jwad

John “Junior” Jwad was born to a faithful and loving family on May 7, 1996. The youngest of three siblings, he was baptized and confirmed by the late Monsignor Suleiman Zia Denha. Junior attended St. Fabian Catholic School in Farmington Hills from kindergarten through eighth grade, taking his First Holy Communion there. He continued his education at Brother Rice High School in Bloomfield Hills, graduating in 2014.

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A Note About Support

The unprecipitated yet coldly calculated terrorist attack by Hamas on innocent Israeli citizens, that also included Americans and other nationalities, has upended the fragile peace in the Middle East. Semi-neutral arbiters in the long simmering Palestinian - Israeli conflict have chosen sides—the United States lining up squarely and fully behind Israel—while countries like Egypt and Jordan, with their own peace treaties with Israel, are being forced to stand with the “Arab Street.”

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Chaldeans and Golf

As we approach the end of fall, Danny Shaba, Nick Hermiz, and I reflect on another season of golf, full of intense competition, thrilling finishes, and memorable moments. This was a golf season that included winning, losing, and most importantly, creating experiences—experiences that we try to build on every year within the Chaldean community. For Chaldeans, that was not always the case.

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Celebrating 20 Years: The Chaldean Cultural Center Founders Gala

The Chaldean Cultural Center (CCC) celebrated its 20th Anniversary Founders Gala on Friday, October 20 at Shenandoah Country Club. It was a night reminiscent of an ethnic bazaar, with a Chaldean bread lady, music, and other entertainment along with a stroll through the museum, a short documentary and commemoration.

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