Abed Hammoud writes

Dearbornunderground.blogspot.com

--by Dearborn Underground on 9/29/06   Lives: Dearborn  

Mr,Abed Hammoud is a very clever guy, sometimes by two.
Aimee Blackburn went before a civic organization a year ago asking for their endorsement of a felon for School Board, without telling them the man was a felon. When asked to explain herself a few months later, Ms. Blackburn denied it. Yet, more than one member of the organization spoke of her involvement with the Dearborn Press and Guide. As for Ms. Blackburn being savvy enough to align herself with AAPAC, most people have it backwards. Abed Hammoud chose Aimee Blackburn to be a candidate because she doesn't have an Arabic last name. Likewise, Mary Lane runs for office without using her Arabic married name. Both of those women are puppets for AAPAC, though evidently Ms. Lane Ourchane at least did not stump for a felon.

I think it is a shame, because I agree that Aimee Blackburn has brains. Until she knowingly backed a felon (a fellow AAPAC member), I thought she was going places. Evidently that is what Abed Hammoud wants, and will push to get. As for Dr. Artis, he isn't helping the school district when he refuses to censure Mr. Fadlallah. Someone posted that Mr. Fadlallah had to travel to Lebanon for a family matter, and someone else posted that he travelled to be part of a committee to rebuild the country. It sounds like nobody knows. And by the way, his own brother is his assistant principal, I understand. If it was family business, there are other family members to attend to it, allowing him to man his important post. I want to point out that his trip coincided with the Hezbollah "victory" party that was held last week. The buzz on the street as soon as he left was that the celebration was the point of his trip. With close relatives in the hierarchy of Hezbollah, this third reason for his trip sounds as likely as the first two.

I am sure that some people will respond harshly to this suggestion, just as some people have tried to defend Mr. Fadlallah's statements as being taken out of context. Until there is something else to consider, we can only know that Mr. Fadlallah has spoken against America; that he used a moment of silence on 9/11 to consider Lebanon's losses, not our own; that he calls the authorities in Ohio racist for arresting two suspicious characters; and that he abandoned his school in the third week of the semester to travel to Lebanon. Those are four strikes against him.

--by Fordson Grad on 9/29/06   Lives: Dearborn  

If you look at the last AAPAC newspaper, Aimee Blackburn, who denies being a member of the top-secret AAPAC Endorsement Committee who endorsed a felon for school board, has her mug front and center in an article about the AAPAC Endorsemnt Committee! Go figure! They must think we are stupid.

--by AAPAC Reader on 9/29/06   Lives: Dearborn  

" I do however like to remind everyone that we all live under the law and that writing and posting falshoods can be punished. We also know that the great technology that allows people to smear others while they hide under screen names allows us to find out who they are if there is a need for a legal action. Thank you.
Abed Hammoud"

You're sue happy. Why don't you go after Debbie Schlussel, Michelle Malkin, Robert Spencer, et al ad nauseum? Why? Because they can support what they write. You have to PROVE what they're saying is libelous in a court of law. They can stand mute in court. Many are doing the footwork and research for us. We can choose what to believe in. This is not the United States of Lebanon.

I think your campaign days are over.

P.S. Didn't CAIR withdraw it's lawsuit against Anti-CAIR.com because CAIR would then have to present their financials to the court? Show me the money!...and where it was sent to.......

--by Also knows the law on 9/29/06   Lives: Detroit area  

Mr. Hammoud,
I watched you attempt to launch your political star years ago. You seemed a trouble maker, rebel rouser, or better a demagogue. You want a specific incident? OK - Why did your convicted felon school board candidate tell the Dearborn P&G, in response to his convictions (was it 11? or 12?) I have paid for my mistakes - But, when he spoke to the Arab American News online he had a completely different story - He said - I was innocent but, it was right after 9/11 and my lawyer told me it was a bad environment for arabs. Basically, he says he was convicted because of post 9/11 backlash. Why the double speak? If you and the ADC and any other arab group want to be taken seriously then shut one of the two mouths you speak with. Muslims in Dearborn are being hurt by your greivance mongering. Tell the ADC to host a rally against
TERRORISM - invite Qazwini and Elahi to come too.
Why does freedom of speech not exist with Islam? If the ADC, AAPAC, or any other group wants some credibility then demonstrate against HAMAS, Al Queda, Hezbollah - You want us to believe it is a religion of piece hijacked by a few? Well, show us a level of anger and protest commensurate with anyone hijacking the religion. Why do cartoons and pope quotes generate outrage but, Osama - whom we presume you don't agree with can use the religion to annihilate the western civilized world
and you form an action group for what? To help America combat a real threat? - NO - To help yourself - Sorry - we've run out of grace - no more unmerited favor until we see you cooperate and help others in the community to cooperate with combatting terrorism.

dearbornunderground.blogspot.com

--by Ms. D. Shaw on 9/30/06   Lives: Dearborn  

Mr. Hammoud,

What did Mayor Michael Gudio promise you or give you NOT to run for Mayor last year?

--by Concerned Resident on 9/30/06   Lives: Dearborn  

Wow, that posted link is really offensive. It really paints an entire group of people with a broad brush, with the intent of stirring up animosity and hatred of said group. Germany circa 1935 anyone?

--by Jake on 9/30/06   Lives: USA  

Mr. Hammoud,

Thank you for giving us a third choice when you ran for Mayor five years ago. Even though we voted for straight shooter Police Chief Ron Deziel instead, we thank you for taking the time and effort to run for mayor, and for giving us a choice.

It's too bad you were comprised in 2005, decided not to run for mayor, and give us a second choice for the mayor's job. If we could have been convinced that you were a straight shooter too, would do the right thing, could be counted on not to take bribes & kick-backs, you would have won in 2005.

--by Concerned Citizen on 9/30/06   Lives: Dearborn  

I am a confused. In reading Mr. Hammoud's comments, he states "I write you fully knowing that this posting will generate many negative comments and I have no intention of participating in any "tennis match" of negative thoughts. I don't have the desire nor do I have the time". Why did Mr. Hammoud make the post in the first place? Sounds to me that he wants to dialogue with people, but, only when it is to his advantage.

Mr. Hammoud further states "I do however like to remind everyone that we all live under the law and that writing and posting falsehoods can be punished". The last time I checked, the first amendment allows free speech. I also know that if they seek legal action, it would have to be proven that there was some time of damage to reputation, etc. If it is libel this is considered published defamation. The last time I checked, the case law on internet posting has not been determined to fall within libel. Also, this would be a civil type case. This means that the level of proof would be the preponderance of the evidence. Mr. Hammoud and AAPAC would have to prove some type of defamation.

Mr. Hammoud’s statement “We also know that the great technology that allows people to smear others while they hide under screen names allows us to find out who they are if there is a need for a legal action�. This final statement sounds like a threat. Who is Mr. Hammoud referring to as “We�? This sounds more like a threat to me.

So let me recap, we have a member of AAPAC, who is a lawyer, a member of the Wayne County Prosecutor’s staff, on an internet web site, stating that he does not want to be involved in a tennis match of negative thoughts, He wants to dialogue with people, but, only if he is allowed to control the discussion and finally, he threatens legal action. I may not be a lawyer, but, it sounds to me that Mr. Hammoud should go back to law school because this posting is riddled with possible legal action that can be taken against him. The scary part of this is that I am not even a lawyer. Imagine that!

--by A Non-Lawyer on 9/30/06   Lives: Detroit area  

Why is Assistant Wayne County Prosecutor, Abed Hammoud, so defensive about the Life for Relief and Development Charity? Did AAPAC accept money from such an organization? Sounds fishy to me.

--by Captain Ahab on 9/30/06   Lives: Dearborn  

I know a good law firm that handles all the lawsuits that are filed against the Dearborn Public schools Mr. Abed Hammoud might need to contact Artis, Paul, or Tom Raferty or any board member to get the name and the contact number of that firm.

--by A Person on 9/30/06   Lives: USA  

Interesting how Mr. Hammoud says he welcomes criticisms of his organization in an open forum but can't handle a few rumors on the internet without threatening legal action.

--by Brian on 9/30/06   Lives: Dearborn  

I'm sure that Kim Worthy, in the Wayne County Prosecutor's office, would find this information interesting.

--by Taxpayer on 10/1/06   Lives: Dearborn  

How nice of Abed Hammoud to invite us to exchange ideas with his group. I'm sure they would really listen to them. Maybe I will stop in on one of their meetings and insinuate that I will take legal action if their views aren't the same as mine. I will make sure I leave as quick as I can after stating my opinion becuase I also don't have time for tennis matches. It would be much better if Abed Hammoud would spend some of his legal energy stopping all the real estate and insurance scams in his community rather then threaten people posting on a local blog. As far as his "afraid to post our names" comment goes, I speak with my votes and tax dollars. Abed Hammoud couldn't even get 20% of the votes from the Arabic voters. Why does he want me to post my name? So he can send me a Christmas card? It is not illegal to post "falsehoods". If it were illegal, he himself would be breaking the law posting that "falsehood". With idiotic statements like that it is no wonder Wayne County has such a poor conviction rate.

--by ABED HAMMOUD IS A JOKE on 10/1/06   Lives: Dearborn  

Maybe all of you are a little sore at the fact that Abed Hammoud was instrumental in building more schools and passing a massive technology bond that all of your children are benefiting from. Maybe you aren't brave enough to admit that he and AAPAC were the ones who led the campaign against the 1st 2 bonds and were instrumental in passing the 150 million dollar bond that built McCollough Unis and Geer Park. If it wasn't for Abed, and AAPAC raising awareness about the problems in the district with the first two bonds, nothing would have ever gotten done. Also, you can't stand the fact that a school was named DON UNIS and he was on that committee that made it happen. AND YES they did endorse the best 2 board members that we have. SO you take the time to insult and criticize his campaign for mayor, yet you are too cowardly to admit the facts. You can lie, criticize and say what ever you want, the truth is you can't stand the fact that someone finally came along and made some big changes.

--by ABED HAMMOUD IS RIGHT ON TARGET on 10/1/06   Lives: Dearborn  

Jake

I read through all of the postings in that link. Broad brush?? I think not. They are specific situations and specific people mentioned who foment their ideology through the hijacking of a religion. I think the broad brush is your imagination.

As far as Mr. Hammoud, I find his comments laughable. He has never given me the impression of wanting to engage in "meaningful debate". That also goes for his cronies on the school board and the AAPAC.

Here is a question for you Mr Hammoud:

Did Mr. Jassem have any kind of relationship with the AAPAC? If so, what kind?

--by Dearborn Arab on 10/1/06   Lives: Dearborn  

Aren't you all just plain tired of him--you speak so loudly, I cannot hear what you say Mr Hammoud.

--by Fatigued in Dearborn on 10/1/06   Lives: USA  

EAST SIDE LOOKS GREAT, Where is your proof that kids in the east end can't read or write? Have you investigated bilingual teachers and do you have proof that they are not qualified and are teaching our kids to be illiterate? Where is your proof? Becker is 100% bilingual and are being nationally recognized for excellence, or are you going to find some kind of excuse to say that is a lie too? But someone like you doesn't base their accusations on proof and facts only on ignorance. It pisses you off that the sons and daughters of immigrants are doing great things doesn't it. Hammoud and his family are just one example of immigrants who came to this country and acheived success. Bilingual teachers are just as qualified as any other teachers in this district, the only difference is that most of them speak more than one language.

--by Abed Hammoud is right on target on 10/2/06   Lives: Dearborn  

That bond proposal that Abed Hammoud SUPPOSEDLY fought so hard to get rejected twice, and finally passed was made to ONLY help East Dearborn. We HAD to get UNIS built if we didn't want our class sizes to go up even more! He is the leader in the division between the the sides of the city. Instead of coming to this site and ending some of the stereotypes about him, he only perpetuated them.

--by DONT NEED THE PUBLICITY TO POST MY NAME on 10/2/06   Lives: Dearborn  

You\'re right, the bonds helped east Deaborn. BUT the fact remains that a few thousand students would not have a place to sit if it wasn\'t for those buildings in the east end (McCollough-Unis, Berry Career Center, Geer Park, & Salina Intermediate). So, in fact it DID help west Dearborn. Without it, all of those students would be bused to west Dearborn schools to sit in portable class rooms circled around the schools with all of the available land. If left up to \"your\" great board members, the only additions built would have been at the high schools. But lucky for you, these are pains you will never have to feel. Even if you are ungrateful!

--by Get the Facts on 10/2/06   Lives: Dearborn  

Anyone remember the board meeting where Abed Hammoud paraded a dozen Arabs up to the podium and threatened legal action if the new elementary school was not named after an Arabic person? Even though the board agreed that it was to be named McCollough elementary school, Unis was added to the name in the 11th hour as a token gesture by our politically correct Superintendent to avoid the threat of legal action.

This was a huge victory for the Arabic community that came with the threat of legal action by Abed Hammoud and our friends at AAPAC. What a unifying event for our community bringing both Arabic and non Arabic folks together to recognize a fine Dearborn Educator! If you can’t get your way on the merits of a situation, all you need to do is sue! If anyone in the world wants to know why there is so much racial discord among our community, one need look no farther than the behavior of the Arabic community when they cant get their way on their own merits.

--by Dearborn II on 10/2/06   Lives: Dearborn  

Strange comments today regarding the bond issues. The first two bond issues were attacked by AAPAC because they weren't meant to build a fourth high school in East Dearborn. Aimee Blackburn ran for office the first time on a platform of getting that fourth high school. The west end always supported the bond issues, even though the new buildings were always meant for the east end. When the east end came on board the bond passed. Even though there was no fourth high school. All AAPAC and Hammoud did was delay the improvements. Hammoud and the other heads of AAPAC publicly support Hezbollah, a terrorist group that has killed Americans and every day states "Death to America." Why should anyone who lives in America support that man?

One poster suggests that Mike Guido has taken kickbacks, and that Abed Hammoud would have been a better choice for Mayor. That is hilarious. The big "land deal" involves Guido accused of steering profits to a man who is currently hiding in Lebanon, accused by the Feds of giving millions to Hezbollah. And you think electing Abed Hammoud to the Mayor's office would lessen support of Hezbollah? That is not logical.

--by Fordson '72 Grad on 10/2/06   Lives: Dearborn  

You are right, all the money was spent on new and improvement to old schools in East Dearborn so everyone over there has new additions and new brand new schools and in the West End we get moldy, mildewy schools and WE WIN??!!

--by YOU ARE RIGHT on 10/2/06   Lives: Dearborn  

72\'GRAD, Where do you have proof that AAPAC publicly supports Hezbollah. When did they ever come out and say that. They support their native country of Lebanon, just like the many Italians who leave Dearborn in the summer to go and visit Italy. Show the proof, you can\'t because you know that is a blatant lie. It was only after the West end figured out that this bond was going to pass and they weren\'t going to be able to stand in the way that they got on board, so that they didn\'t end up embarrassed. Abed Hammoud, Aimee, Mary Lane and a few others are the ones who fought for this bond and these changes, but you seem to have some trouble with basing your statements on facts, so you would never admit the truth anyway.

--by The Tractor on 10/3/06   Lives: Dearborn  

Omar Siblani, the president of the AAPAC has been very vocal in his support for Hezbollah. Per news reports he doesn\'t consider them a terrorist group. While the AAPAC as a whole may not share the same opinion, his comments will, as it\'s president rightly or wrongly reflect on the group.

As for your own facts....the west end never stood in the way of the bond proposals passing, it was Abed and company doing that. He boasted responsibility for their failure.

--by Dearborn Arab on 10/3/06   Lives: Dearborn  

First of all his name is Osama not Omar, you can't even get your names right. Where did Osama say that he supports Hezbollah. Get your names right before you spread your blatant lies.

--by THE TRACTOR on 10/3/06   Lives: Dearborn  

The only thing blatantly wrong in my post was getting his name wrong. He has openly supported Hezbollah and denies it being a terrorist organization. He has been quoted extensively as such. You have no argument because you are blatantly ignorant the facts.

--by Dearborn Arab on 10/4/06   Lives: Dearborn  

Tractor, here is a Siblani quote from CNN, speaking about Hezbollah.

"Osama Siblani publishes the Arab-American News, the largest Arab-American newspaper in the United States. He said, “No, They are not terrorists. Absolutely not. No. They are freedom fighters.�"

--by Dearborn Arab on 10/4/06   Lives: Dearborn  

To TRACTOR:

You might try reading Osama Siblani's own newspaper, the 'Arab-American News', before you make any more statements that he doesn't support Hezbollah. He is so public in his views, I have a hard time understanding why you would believe otherwise. You like to throw the term 'blatant lies' around, even though the truth of the statement is publicly evident. Are you really an agent for mis-information?

--by Fordson '72 Grad on 10/4/06   Lives: Dearborn  

IF Osama said that then he is entitled to his opinion. There are people who see Hezbollah as a group who fights in self defense against those who attack them. It depends what perspective you look at it from. Osama supports his country of Lebanon and those who defend it, there is nothing wrong with that.

--by THE TRACTOR on 10/4/06   Lives: Dearborn  

The only problem is that while Osama is supporting "his country" he is resising in the United States of America. Perhaps he should move back to "his country".

--by Alia on 10/4/06   Lives: Dearborn  

To Tractor:

Of course Osama Siblani is entitled to his opinion. In America, that is, the land of the free. The fact is that Hezbollah is a sworn enemy of the United States and it is a terrorist group. HEZBOLLAH IS NOT LEBANON, AND NEVER HAS BEEN LEBANON. There is plenty wrong with supporting a terrorist group who kills Americans and chants "Death to America."

You said "Osama supports his country of Lebanon..." Osama Siblani lives here now. America is now his country, isn't it? If he can't value America before the bloodthirsty aims of a terrorist group, then why is he living here?

As for your incredible statement that Hezbollah was "defending" Lebanon: Mr. Nasrallah - the leader of Hezbollah - has publicly admitted he deliberately provoked the war with Israel. He admitted it. (Read the Arab-American News, about three issues back. It is on-line.) So, how can anybody deliberately start a war - in which they KNOW their neighbors are going to be blown to smithereens - and then claim to be DEFENDING those very same neighbors? The neighbors wouldn't have been in harm's way except for the actions of Hezbollah. Some defenders, who brought down fiery rain from the skies. Today, there are pictures in the Detroit Free Press about the destruction in south Lebanon. They don't bother to point out that the Christian towns in south Lebanon weren't bombed by the Israeli air force. Those towns weren't hiding Hezbollah fighters and weapons. A leading Lebanese-Amerian group points out that the problem in Lebanon is not Israel, it is Hezbollah and Syria. Syria has killed many thousands more Lebanese that Israel ever has.

Lebanon is the victim of Hezbollah terrorism. No matter how Osama Siblani and the other leaders of AAPAC hate Israel, to support Hezbollah is to support an enemy of America, and of Lebanon. Again, there is very much wrong with that. Wake up to the poison that is being spread by these so-called "community leaders."

--by Fordson '72 Grad on 10/5/06   Lives: Dearborn  

HEZBOLLAH IS NOT LEBANON, AND NEVER HAS BEEN LEBANON

How can you say this? The Lebanese government sat back and allowed Hezbollah to conduct a war with a neighboring country offering to send Lebanese military troops to repel a ground offensive from Israel to fight along side Hezbollah. To suggest that Lebanon is not Hezbollah would be like saying that it would be alright for the USA to allow the Michigan Militia to conduct a war against Mexico and saying that that group was not America. It’s ridiculous! Lebanon is in fact Hezbollah. Lebanon has been harboring terrorist groups like Hammas and Hezbollah for as long as terrorism has been used as a weapon against countries that did not support Islam as a state religion. Islam does not recognize any other religions and outwardly brings attacks and terrorism to all who oppose Islam. This type of behavior has become a component of the Muslim belief system. People here say it is not so, but the actions of Muslims here and abroad shows their agenda to be a method of aggression against all non Muslims globally.

Any group of murderous thugs that are operating in the United States become an enemy of the United States and are rounded up and brought to justice. When the KKK was murdering blacks down south, the Johnson administration declared war on the KKK and destroyed them making them the impotent group of clowns they are today. When the Oklahoma City attack occurred, the Michigan Militia (and several other militias for that matter) were summarily dealt a series of legal blows that so weakened them that they are nothing more than a social group of weekend warriors. Just as the Freemen militiamen were crushed and incited such occurrences in American history like Ruby Ridge incident where separatists were attacked or arrested and brought to trial and jailed, or the Branch Dividians in Waco who were attacked and murdered by our own government agents under the premise that they were enemies of the state and used religion as a pretext.

It will not be long before the P C attitudes will wear thin as people like Siblani continue to undermine the American government are prosecuted for being the subversives they have become. If you want to go fight for groups like Hezbollah, do so in Lebanon along side the other terrorist collaborators. Doing it here is treasonous, not freedom of speech. As we are all taught in grade school, no freedom is absolute. When the freedom of speech that people like Siblani abuse starts to undermine our own American government and way of life, it threatens our security and safety as a nation.

--by Land of the free on 10/5/06   Lives: USA  

LAND OF THE FREE, I would like to educate you on one thing. When you say that Islam does not recognize any other religion you are wrong, Obvously, you haven't studied and educated yourself. The Quran sais that we have been created into nations and tribes so that we can get to know and RESPECT one Another, and that no human is superior over any other human. This is a verse in the QURAN. The Quran speaks highly of the people of the book and encourages brotherhood and acceptance between humanity. The religion of Islam does not preach terrorism, the word itself means being at peace with one's self. There are good and bad people in all races and religions, you yourself mentioned the KKK and WACO, TEXAS. People need to separate politics and religion, they don't go together.

--by THE TRACTOR on 10/8/06   Lives: Dearborn  

To THE TRACTOR, and LAND OF THE FREE:

First, to THE TRACTOR:

Your last sentence, "People need to separate politics and religion, they don't go together." Very true words, sir. Unfortunately, politicians the world over bring religion into the mix when they can do it to their advantage. Witness Mr. Fadlallah of Hezbollah (the "Party of God"), who paints every evil act he commits as though it is a defense of Islam, when really they are all about political power. And witness George Bush, who panders to the far right wing Christian groups from time to time on certain issues to keep their support. (I am not drawing a parallel between the two in general, so simmer down, some of you.)

If only we could separate religion and politics in this world, we would all be much better off.

Now, to the LAND OF THE FREE:

I stand by my statement that Hezbollah is not Lebanon, and never has been. I don't care what the current leader of Lebanon has said. He also said he wasn't going to immediately disarm Hezbollah. The reality is that he can't do that right now because Lebanon's army is not strong enough. He also still has Syrian-backed members of his own Parliment to deal with, such as Nabih Berri. The Syrian-caused mess in Lebanon, including their support of Hezbollah, does not change the fact that the people of Lebanon have different goals than Hezbollah. Hezbollah did not even gain a majority of the vote in their own districts last year. The move to war by Hezbollah was partly intended to disrupt democracy in Lebanon. When it comes to votes, Hezbollah was an afterthough in that country. By forcing the situation back to violence, Hezbollah has regained clout. That is not for the good of Lebanon, it is only for the good of Hezbollah. It is important for all to make the distinction that supporting Lebanon is separate from supporting Hezbollah. Support of Hezbollah is wrong. Support of an independent Lebanon is not wrong.

--by Fordson '72 Grad on 10/9/06   Lives: Dearborn  

As I read all these postings it makes me really sad to see how people are not open to debate nor are they willing to listen to the other side. Let me comment about a few things that I hope some of you can actually read with an open mind.
1. All of you claim that AAPAC and Abed Hammoud support Hezbollah and thus are Anti-American. Well, if that is true then how come last summer when Osama Siblani, Abed, and a few others from the Lebanese community went to meet with leaders in Lebanon they refused to meet with Hezbollah and in fact in a press conference in the middle of Beirut stood up for the US and said that slogans such as death to America, among others, are unacceptable and should not be repeated.
2. Some of you are saying that Abed Hammoud's comment mean that he is defending Mr. Jassemm and his charity. I can not find anywhere in his posting where he defends him. In fact all I see is that he says that Mr. Jassemm was never a member of AAPAC. I hardly call that support.
3. Some of you mention Mr. Hammoud’s run for mayor and make jokes about it. In case you missed it no incumbent mayor has ever lost an election in Dearborn and at least Mr. Hammoud tried to make a difference. So he lost, even former President Bill Clinton lost his first bid for election.
4. There were some that said Mr. Hammoud should take his AAPAC buddies and protest on Warren because “Isn’t that what your countrymen do when someone does something you don’t like?� The idea to peaceably assemble in protest is protected by our constitution’s first amendment. And those rallies that were held on Warren Ave. were to protest the killing of over 1100 innocent people with the majority being women and children. But then again a person that would write such a racist remark probably does not value human life.
5. “You have to PROVE what they're saying is libelous in a court of law. They can stand mute in court.� The person that posted this should go back and look at the Northwest Airlines V Flight attendants union and see exactly how much the law allows in terms of subpoena of internet material.
6. For the person that said your own community views you as a buffoon. Who have you spoken to? Do you have any clue what you are talking about? Sure in every community you can not please everyone and there are always those that don’t like or agree with you. I am sure there are Italians that can’t stand Mayor Guido. I live in East Dearborn and I know a lot of people and I can tell you the majority do not share that opinion.

I could go on and on because of how mad I am at some of the stuff I read, but unfortunately I don’t think it will sway many opinions. I will finish with this though, I know Mr. Hammoud as I know many others in the city. And the few people that have not been able to have their way with the city and are trying to brainwash the rest of you into thinking he is a terrorist supporting trouble maker are the ones you should be careful from. Mr. Hammoud is a lawyer with a very good and respectful job. He has always stood up for Dearborn, but you don’t have to believe me, talk to any police officer that Mr. Hammoud has defended in court and see what his opinion of him is. Talk to the kids that don’t have to sit in portables while at school and ask them if they are happy to be in a good learning environment. In fact ask anyone that has spent a half hour with him in an open conversation and see what they say. You want to throw stones from a far go ahead if it makes you happy, lie, slander, and insult. But I will tell you this, If Mr. Hammoud ever stepped back form politics we all lose. He does not need us, we need him…

--by LIFE LONG DEARBORN CITIZEN on 10/10/06   Lives: Dearborn  

To LIFE LONG DEARBORN CITIZEN:

Osama Siblani publicly prints his support of Hezbollah (and Hamas) in every issue of his newspaper, the 'Arab-American News.' He and Abed Hammoud stood in Hemlock park and made public statements to that effect. I would call that supporting Hezbollah. These men argue that the people of Hezbollah should not be called terrorists, despite their killing of Americans. I would call that supporting Hezbollah. Note, they did not demand that Hezbollah stop occupying the south of Lebanon, or give up its weapons, or stop shooting rockets into Israel. In fact, they did not denounce Hezbollah in any way. I say that with certainty because I have seen many references to their statements in Mr. Siblani's newspaper, and such denouncement has never been claimed. Oh, it is said that they "demanded" that Hezbollah stop chanting "Death to America." That "demand" was simply public relations advice.

And, please note, it is true that peaceful demonstrations are legal in America. But, also note that the demonstrations are always about fighting in the Middle East, and people with bullhorns talk hatred of Israel and American foreign policy. The leaders of these protests are trying to force their way of thinking onto the whole community, by shouting louder and louder. The larger community doesn't have to like those protests. And, please remember that racism is often a two-way street. In the 'Arab-American News' you can find Abed Hammoud quoted as telling a gathering that if the Arab-American community had only turned out to vote in greater numbers in the primary, the final vote in November would have been between two Arab candidates for judge. Abed Hammoud is saying that Arab-Americans should only vote for their own. Do you know what that is called? Racism.

--by Fordson '72 Grad on 10/11/06   Lives: Dearborn  

It seems that sometimes common sense could be twisted into racism or extremism. For those of you that think calling Hezbollah freedom fighters is un-American that is your business, but the reality of it is that none of you had to be rushed to shelters because Israeli aircraft was bombing your village. None of you had to hide because the Israeli army invaded you village and demanded that all men 15 years and older must go to the town square. Do you know what happened at those gatherings: kids would get hit by the Israelis for no reason what so ever. They literally would just pick someone out of the crowd and shoot him in front of everybody else. Before any of you say that well he must have done something to get picked on let me assure you I stood in those gatherings and not only did they not have a clue who that person was, it was really just luck of the draw. When did all that stuff end you ask. When Hezbollah started fighting the Israelis and they could no longer run roughshod over innocent people. How do you expect people not to think of them as heroes? You bring up that Hezbollah blew up the Americans. The only thing that Hezbollah has ever been excused of in terms of aggression against America is the Marine barracks in 1983. Hezbollah didn’t even exist in its current form back in 1983. It may have the same name but not the same leadership and not the same agenda. Israel attacked and sank the USS Liberty in 1967 and it seems that no one cares to remember that 208 men were either killed or injured during a sustained 75 minute attack on the ship. For anyone that wants to claim this was an accident please go to http://www.ussliberty.com/report/report.htm and read the Army’s official report on the incident. No one holds the current Israeli administration responsible why do they still hold Hezbollah responsible for the barracks. As for the most recent war that Hezbollah “provoked,� the abduction of soldiers has been going on for decades in that part of the world and previous Israeli regimes have quietly done prisoner exchanges. No one would get hurt and no war would erupt. This time it so happened that a weak Israeli government needed to make a point to its people that it was stronger then they thought and war erupted. Do any of you this day still think the war was fought over two soldiers? If that was the case then how come Israel stopped its aggression against Lebanon without the return of those soldiers? As for why prisoner exchanges are necessary, try having thousands of men in Isreali jails without a trial or proof of wrong doing. Many of those jailed are their simply because they made eye contact, EYE CONTACT, with an occupying Israeli soldier.
I have lived in the US for many years, I have received my education here and I make a great living. I would not trade it for the world and if asked I would take up arms for the country that I love in a heartbeat. Ever since I left Lebanon and became a resident of Dearborn I have come across all kinds of different people. People with common sense that accept others from different races and religions and people that are racist and yearn for the days of “white Dearborn� but since 9-11 things have gotten so bad in the city that I don’t know if I would want to raise my children in this kind of environment. The current administration in the city and the leadership of the newspapers have brainwashed all the residents into thinking Arab people are out to get them and take over their city. This, coupled with a presidential administration that has been repeatedly caught lying about threats and perceived threats of terrorism or weapons of mass destruction have done so much harm to the mental state of their citizens that I don’t know if it could ever go back to the way it was.
When I was at Fordson back in the late 80’s I had a large group of friends and it was a racially mixed bunch that didn’t care about where everyone or their parents were born. Those were good days, these days it is all gone and it is really sad.
To respond to some of the comments made by my fellow Fordson grads, by the way Class of ’90, you talk about the comment Abed Hammoud made about if more Arabs came out and voted the Arab candidate for judge could have won. Well what do you expect him to say? When Arab voters don’t go out to vote do you motivate them to do so by telling them that someone that didn’t share their views would have won if they had voted? Do you ever wonder why someone with a Polish or Italian last name has an easier time winning votes in Dearborn? Don’t you think it is because of how the voter population is divided in Dearborn? If you are going to sit here and write that Arabs are different from other races because they vote for their own then you are kidding yourself. You say that Arabs file law suites, go check how many lawsuits were ever filed by Mr. Hammoud and come back and say that comment again. As for personal gain to his pocketbook, what the hell does he have to gain for standing up for his beliefs he doesn’t get a penny from what he does, in fact in his job as a prosecutor, anyone knows that working for the county pays less then private practice, so if he was money hungry do you think he would have chosen that route. You also mentioned the demonstrations are always about fighting in the Middle East, well what do you expect them to demonstrate for having a good job or clean water or a warm house. Aren’t the Middle East and what is going on there along with Korea the major issues of the day?
I appreciate your point of views and your beliefs and I respect what you stand for, but sometimes it is possible that if you don’t have direct contact with a person and actually get to know them that some of the information you get about that person is not true. I just pray for the day when our own government stops turning us against each other for their personal gain.

--by LIFE LONG DEARBORN CITIZEN on 10/12/06   Lives: Dearborn  

Dear I miss the 80's
It is people with views like yours that are destroying our community. It is funny that you mention the Lebanese people backing Hamas when it doesn’t even exist in Lebanon. I attended a couple of those rallies and I don’t remember anyone calling for the fall of the United States. And about sympathy, I would not expect any from someone who delivers a racist tirade that you just delivered. I spoke using facts and personal experiences; you speak using clichés and accusations. I posted on this web log with complete politeness and no personal attacks against anyone specific but apparently that doesn’t matter in the climate we live in. You want to hate me? Go ahead, you want to hate Arabs? That is your business but it really pains me to see who deeply embedded your hatred towards us is. It is just further proof that the closed mindedness that exists in Dearborn is not going away any time soon. Many years ago it was the African Americans that were targeted with the keep Dearborn clean campaign, now it is the Arabs that are Dearborn’s target so it is nothing new. I certainly hope that you find a place to live where everyone looks and thinks like you so that you can feel the personal comfort you so obviously yearn for.

--by LIFE LONG DEARBORN CITIZEN on 10/12/06   Lives: Dearborn  

Thank-you "YEA, I MISS THE 80's TOO!

Will our moderate American loving Lebanese please respond? I have been waiting for all you moderates to respond. I have decided you might not exist. If you want us to believe you care about this country then show it.

I think the difference between the 80's and now could be several thousand satellite dishes and 3 Imams. Propaganda for the terrorist organization - stop listening.

--by Abu-American on 10/12/06   Lives: Dearborn  

To: "Yea, I Miss the 80's Too",

You mention the phrase "IJ's" in your post, what does that mean? I have not heard this term before.

--by ah on 10/13/06   Lives: Dearborn  

IJ's = Insurance Jobs

--by LIVE IN THE 48126 on 10/15/06   Lives: Dearborn  

"Abi-American"

We could care less about proving anything to you and others like you. We are faith, our culture, and our role in this country and we are succeeding in every facet of society. Racist bigots like you will always be there, but thankfully your proportion and influence are being diminished.

We will continue to live peacefully and strive for a better life for us and our children in this free, and wonderful country... OUR COUNTRY!

So take it easy, Dearborn is for all of us, and you will just have to deal with that or move!

P.S. If any of you self righteous, Muslim-haters was really a good person, you would try to work with those you disagree with and feel threatened by to improve relations and come to a common understanding about the future. Isn't this what Jesus (Peace upon him) would have done? Where are our leaders on this issue?

--by West End Proud Arab American Dearbornite on 10/23/06   Lives: Dearborn  

Abi American:

No one owes you any explanation about anything. The smart moderates of the Arab American community will not open a dialogue or try to explain anything to an ignorant narrowminded person such as yourself. We do not have to prove to YOU or ANYONE ELSE that we love this country. The fact that we came here and reached our highest potential of success is enough. So please remember Abi American that many of us do exist, we just won't stupe to your level.

--by THE TRACTOR on 10/24/06   Lives: Dearborn  

West End Proud Arab and Tractor:

Thank you both for your "thoughtful" replies. Your "elegant" discourse proves my point.

--by Abu American on 10/27/06   Lives: Dearborn