Arab American, Chaldean Council Toasts Civic Leaders

posted on: Nov 18, 2009

The Arab American and Chaldean Council (ACC) celebrated 30 years of growth with its annual Civic and Humanitarian Awards gala, held in the ballroom of the Renaissance Marriott.

Nearly 1,000 supporters — men in suits, women in fancy cocktail dresses — gathered for the Oct. 17 event that honored individuals and organizations who are visionaries in their fields.

This year’s honorees included U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, Lieutenant Gov. John Cherry, Detroit Mayor Dave Bing and Ambassador Bridge owner Manuel “Matty” Moroun. Houda Nonoo, ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the U. S. was honored guest. Near the end of the evening, a surprise Visionary Award was presented to Dr. Haifa Fakhouri for 30 years of commitment.

The ACC is a nonprofit human service organization providing services primarily to the Middle Eastern communities in Southeast Michigan. Proceeds from the awards gala, the organization’s largest annual fundraiser, will benefit its specialized refugee programs and services.

In addition to the awards ceremony, guests enjoyed a brief cocktail reception, and a sit-down, plated dinner that included boneless chicken breast, garlic mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus and roasted whole tomatoes.

WDIV (Channel 4) weatherman Chuck Gaidica kept things lively as the evening’s emcee. Tickets to the event were $150.

Chuck Bennett
The Detroit News