ADC Michigan Celebrates its 2008 Annual Gala with a Full House Crowd
Amidst an audience of 1200 guests, including a number of distinguished attendees, UN representatives, members of the diplomatic corps, elected officials and dignitaries, and ADC friends and committed supporters, ADC Michigan hosted a spectacular and memorable program, under the theme “The Pathway to a New Beginning,” for its Annual Fundraising Gala at the Hyatt Regency Dearborn on December 12, 2008.
The sold event featured Channel 7 Action News Anchor Diana Lewis, along with numerous other highlights, including: an elaborate Awards Ceremony, honoring distinguished local, national and international leaders; a Press Conference and meet and greet with renowned actor and award recipient, Hassan ‘Haaz’ Sleiman, from the film, The Visitor; a Cultural Art Exhibit by Dr. Ibrahim Shalaby; A middle-eastern Fashion Display by Zaynini International; an authentic Middle-Eastern Coffee Tent sponsored by Hashem Roastery; and exquisite cuisine prepared by Chef Habib Bazzi of Bint Jebail Banquet, which drew and held the attention of the audience.
The focus of this year’s event was on the growth of ADC over the years, through the support of its sponsors, and ADC’s establishment of the American-Arab Center for Civil and Human Rights (ACCHR). During the Gala program, ADC Michigan saluted its sponsors, who have remained steadfast over the years and have fostered this growth. The presence of these supporters during the event is a testament to their commitment to ADC’s mission to protect civil rights and embrace diversity. It is with the support of sponsors, ADC is able to sustain its efforts and enhance its growth. To view the photo gallery of the Gala, visit: American Elite Studios .
During the Gala, Mayor Jack O’Reilly addressed the audience with the program’s welcoming remarks. Due to the auto industry crisis, Senator Debbie Stabenow was unable to attend to deliver the program’s special remarks as scheduled. The Senator sent a special proclamation to ADC Michigan, along with a special message. In addition, ADC Michigan received letters of recognition from Governor Jennifer Granholm, Attorney General Michael Cox; Senator Debbie Stabenow; Senator Carl Levin; Congressman John Dingell; Congressman John Conyers; Mayor Dan Paletko; and Mayor Jack O’Reilly.
The main highlight of this year’s event was the honoring of ADC’s distinguished guests, including: Robert Buckler, President and Chief Operating Officer of Detroit Edison, who was presented with the night’s Special Tribute; Attorney and Professor David Cole of Georgetown University Law Center who received the Guardian of Civil Rights Award; Hassan ‘Haaz’ Sleiman, renowned actor from the film The Visitor who received the Excellence in Entertainment Award; Michael George, Chairman of the Chaldean Federation of America who was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award; Attorney Tim Attalla of Miller Canfield and Brenda Rosenberg, Co-Executive Producer of “Reuniting the Children of Abraham” both received the Building Bridges Award; Dr. Safa Rifka, ADC National Board Chairman who received the Arab American of the Year Award; and Abdulhakem Alsadah, Founder and President of the National Association of Yemeni Americans who received the Community Service Award.
“On behalf of ADC Michigan and the community that we serve, we would like to extend a heartfelt thank you for the support of all our Gala attendees and sponsors. We truly appreciate your participation as we conclude another successful year of service and celebrate another Gala event with you. It is our honor to maintain our mission and continue to work with you for years to come,” stated Imad Hamad, Regional Director and Sr. National Advisor.