Cedars Network US Directory

Bringing together three thousand years of Phoenician life in Lebanon is not something I was able to do by myself. I gladly give thanks to all my friends in Lebanon and in the Lebanese-American community who have been so helpful in this work. Many professors and experts contributed, and are named in the book. Also very valuable were Joumana Medlej and Antonia Kanaan in Beirut, as well as Salim Khalaf of phoenicia.org and cedarsusa.com the U.S.

And the work continues. In June I was asked to address the World History Conference in Ifrane, Morocco, on the Phoenicians and their tremendous effect on other Mediterranean societies. The presentation stirred quite a bit of interest among historians in the often-overlooked subject of the Lebanese people and their importance in world affairs. These latest discoveries are also included in the book.

As I have said many times, this Phoenicians book is about the Lebanese people and society, not simply monuments and dates. That is what made the Phoenicians so fascinating to me: they created an amazingly unique, peaceful and prosperous society during Lebanon’s early days. Talking with people in Lebanon today, I can still detect traces of all those things. Lebanese people are quite special and have – I think – much more to be proud of in their heritage than is ever admitted. Now, finally, all the parts of that golden society have been brought together in one place, and polished so that they shine brightly in the light of day. A total of 92 illustrations help illuminate the 392 pages of this remarkable journey through the rich heritage of all Lebanese people.

ALNM appoints a Chairwoman to the Woman's Committee

Dr. Hamid Kantara Public Information Officer (832) 771-2442 Email: PIO@alnm.net

The American Lebanese National Movement (ALNM) is pleased to introduce Mrs. Eliane Sfeir Marcos, Chairwoman of the Woman's Committee. Mrs. Marcos' appointment comes amidst a growing need to care for Lebanese women who are being forgotten by our culture.

"We are very honored to have Mrs. Marcos lead the Woman's Committee," said Dr. Mazin Moufarij, ALNM Chairman; "we have been searching for the right person to chair this committee for many weeks. Though equally important, this committee in particular is set to handle issues that many of us are not ready or willing to acknowledge, especially within the Lebanese borders. This committee will also bring Lebanese women in Houston together for friendship and cultural revival."

"I am honored to join ALNM as a member and as the chairwoman of the Woman's committee;" stated Mrs. Marcos. "I feel that I am being called to bring hope and results. Our Committee will work diligently to improve the quality of life for all Lebanese women, revive the sense of family unity, maintain our heritage, deepen our cultural values, and focus on the future of our children."

Mrs. Marcos earned a Bachelor of Arts in Modern Languages and Translation from Universite Saint Esprit, Kaslik and is currently majoring in communication and Journalism at University of St. Thomas in Houston Texas.

The Woman's Committee is multifaceted and requires the active participation of all Lebanese women. Many of us have personal or global issues affecting our daily lives. The Woman's committee is set to tackle those issues and work on finding solutions. For more information and/or to join the Woman's Committee, contact Mrs. Eliane Sfeir Marcos at Woman@alnm.net

The American Lebanese National Movement (ALNM) is a non-profit, charitable and civil association with no political or religious character.

Tale of life, love, loss, liberty

Lebanese immigrant finds inspiration to write the story of his people as he delivers pizzas

On dark roads twisting through South and West Austin, in a little pizza delivery car filled with the aroma of melted cheese and pepperoni, Edmond Nicolas began to write the story of his people.

Once a promising law student who fled civil war in his native Lebanon, Nicolas had traveled his own twisting road to that moment in the summer of 1999, scrawling memories of his life on coupons stuck to cardboard pizza boxes: the mountain village of Rasha, his Christian faith, stories of his ancient Phoenician heritage.

Over the next five years, relying on friends for help with his English and editing, he pieced together a novel he hoped would shed light on the struggle and history of Lebanese Christians and the danger of religion-fueled hatred and fanaticism.

"Unfortunately, people have the wrong idea about Lebanon," Nicolas said. He figured the only way to correct the misperceptions was to write a book.

Nicolas, 50, recently published "The Tomato War and Theomachy," a romantic saga told against the backdrop of Lebanon's civil war, which lasted from 1975 until 1990.

Nicolas still sees the country as a pot set to boil on the stove. With violence erupting in Lebanon this week as former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri was assassinated, Nicolas worries that religious zealotry and fighting could bubble over again.

Nicolas, a Maronite Christian who follows an Eastern Catholic rite, enrolled in law school just as war broke out, pitting Muslims and Christians against each other. When he got his degree in 1984, Lebanon was like "hell every day." Car bombs, shootings, chaos. A friend who had moved to the Chicago area urged Nicolas to follow him.

In 1987, the day before Thanksgiving, Nicolas arrived in Chicago and started working in his friend's factory. He didn't have a car. He didn't speak English. The winds off Lake Michigan chilled to the bone. He wanted the American dream, but there had to be a warmer way to get it. A cousin owned a gas station in Austin. Within two months, Nicolas was pumping fuel. He learned English slowly, reading the Dear Abby and Ann Landers columns in the newspaper, engaging customers in conversation as he filled their tanks.

Nicolas kept his focus, working and saving until he could buy his own car lot in 1991. Prosperity lasted seven years. A misguided investment -- made with $50,000 he borrowed from a friend -- in a Lebanese construction company spelled the end of financial comfort. He sold his company to pay back the loan and took a job at another gas station.

The first time he closed the shop, he had to mop and clean the floors and restroom. Stung by the indignity of the work, he made only a halfhearted effort. On the second night, it struck him: This is God's will. In order to write a book, Nicolas thought, I must do right by his job.

"I think God sent me to the lowest place and wanted me to start from scratch," he said. The story was now brewing in his mind. Then, on June 30, 1999, with a new job as a pizza delivery driver, he found inspiration.

Nicolas, who lives in North Austin with his wife, Vida, also from Lebanon, and their 6-month-old son, Andrew Joseph, is selling the book online. On Sunday, he held a signing at his parish, Our Lady's Maronite Church.

"I'm hoping for the reader to understand that I speak for my people," he said. "I want to revive a kingdom for these people. Nobody knows about them."

American Lebanese National Movement (ALNM)
Press release by Dr. Hamid Kantara pio@alnm.net

Houston, Texas - The American Lebanese National Movement is pleased to introduce Miss Miriam Habib, Chairwoman of the ALNM Youth Committee. Miss Habib has been very passionate about the future of the Lebanese youth in Lebanon as well as abroad. In her acceptance speech, twenty year old Miss Habib asserted that “It is very difficult for us the younger generation to grow up in one culture at home with the family, and another out within the American society. We love America but we miss Lebanon.”

ALNM shares Miss Habib concerns and stands behind her wishes. “I always wished to find a way to support our country from here. With the guidance of ALNM, this opportunity has presented itself. I am passionate about bringing the youth together so we can revive, maintain and deepen our sense of belonging to our country thousands of miles away,” reported Miss Habib. “We are the future generation that will dedicate itself to a Lebanon of freedom, a Lebanon of peace, and a Lebanon of coexistence. We are the youth that one day will take steps to run for public office in various towns in Lebanon. We are the youth that will put an end to prejudice, discrimination and senseless hate.

Miss Habib called on Lebanese parents to be mindful of their children’s love for Lebanon; “I ask you, the parents, to encourage and motivate your children to join our Youth committee so we can build friendships and loyalty to our Cedar Tree and to our people back home

For more information on the ALNM Youth Committee, contact Miss Miriam Habib at Youth@alnm.net or visit www.alnm.net

Honoring a giant and a star
ALNM press release 6/3/05

A giant and a star were honored at last night's ALNM general meeting that was held in Houston, Texas. There are no more doubts that ALNM is moving forward with an impressive mission to promote the Lebanese Community and the welfare of Lebanon in the nation and abroad.

After a moment of silence in memory of freedom Martyr Samir Kassir, the US pledge of Allegiance, the Lebanese National Anthem and the introduction of the ALNM board of directors, a giant took the podium. An eloquent speaker, a philosophical leader, a healer of medicine and a giver of hope, Professor Philip Salem spoke about "Lebanon: A New Hope, a New Opportunity." His message captured the heart of the audience. His wisdom brought smiles to those who have not smiled in years. His humility could not have prepared him for the "Lifetime Achievement Award" that was presented to him by the American Lebanese National Movement (ALNM). "This is but a small token of our love, appreciation and gratitude for years of dedication to Lebanon and to the Medical Community overall," announced Dr. Mazin Moufarij, Chairman of ALNM.

Shortly after, a young American star was also recognized for her "support of the Lebanese Community in Houston and the freedom of Lebanon." Coined "woman of the year" by her fellow young republicans throughout the State of Texas, Jessica Colon, president of the Houston Young Republican Club is a rising star in the National Young Republican Federation. Jessica was described last night as "the morning star" and "a star on the Texas flag." A lover of independence and a promoter of individual freedom, Jessica could not miss the opportunity to show her support for the Lebanese community as the world began to witness history in the making. On Behalf of the Lebanese Community in Houston and the "two million Lebanese men and women" who camped at Martyr's square, we salute and thank Jessica.

The American Lebanese National Movement (ALNM) is a civil, charitable and independent association with no political or religious character.

Fore more information about ALNM, contact Hamid Kantara, Public Information Officer, at (832) 771-2442 or email PIO@alnm.net

American Lebanese National Movement (ALNM)
Contact: Dr. Hamid Kantara – Public Information Office
Email: Hamid@alnm.net
Ph: (832) 771-2442

Houston, Texas - Before the night was over, a crowd of men and women attended the American Lebanese National Movement (ALNM) Happy Hour. Amongst the many Lebanese citizens were supporters from Arab and European countries. The sight of Arguilles, the smell of delicious food and the friendly atmosphere were overshadowed only by the Lebanese flag waving in the breeze of a warm Houston night.

The covered patio at Mary’z Mediterranean cuisine was just what the doctor ordered. Whether it was a symbol of freedom, a symbol of pride, or a symbol of hospitality, young men and women were eager to dance “Dabki” to the sound of familiar Lebanese music. People shook hands and hugged as they introduced themselves to one another; North, South, East and West; people of one country coming together as one community.

“Our organization has no political agenda. Our only politics is our country,” said Dr. Mazin Moufarij, Chairman of the American Lebanese National Movement as he addressed the crowd. Interrupted by applauses, Dr. Moufarij called on all Lebanese people to let go of political affiliations and sectarian divisions and instead invited them to join an organization that is dedicated to “one Lebanon” that does not see people as a religion or as a political affiliation. “Come on board and join us, so together we can do our part in rebuilding our homeland,” continued Dr. Moufarij. “We deserve to be free; and we will be free on the day we regain our rights to vote for political candidates of our choice from any country in the world.” Dr Moufarij insisted that Lebanese citizens who live outside of Lebanon should maintain their rights to elect their representatives, their prime ministers and even their president in Lebanon.

The American Lebanese National Movement (ALNM) is a civil, charitable and independent association with no political or religious character. For more information, contact ALNM at (832) 368-2659 or email chairman@alnm.net

Most people, including gaming, coffee and vending owner operators, their families and staff members are already aware of the high monthly premiums for their health insurance, auto insurance, life insurance, dental and other coverage for potential, unexpected hardship that may strike without notice. However, I am amazed that most individuals and business owners are not aware of similar, easily accessible protection when it comes to all their legal needs.

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Witness to History:
A Man Of Peace Visits The White House

John Akouri/Washington, DC

Exclusive

I had traveled to the McNamara Airport terminal to board a plane to Washington, DC countless times before, but this time my trip felt different. I had been invited by the Ambassador to the Embassy of Lebanon many times before, but this time something about my visit was different. I had met His Eminence Patriarch Nasrallah Peter Sfeir numerous times before, but this time our talks were different. For three days last week, I was one of the lucky ones, granted a rare opportunity to witness an historic occasion in our nations capital. For me, the culmination of this moment in time started long ago.

The year was 1982 and I was just a teenager concerned with all the nuances and joys of shedding adolescence and welcoming the pre-adulthood status that awaited me in the early part of that decade. Though, with the excitement that surrounded the end of another school year and the beginning of summer came a black cloud that loomed overhead, as I could not escape the daily grim radio and television reports of what was to become a besieged Beirut. Since 1975 Lebanon had been embroiled in a bloody civil war – one that had extracted thousands of lives and forced the exodus of those who could to European, American and other foreign lands. By the early summer of 1982, the war had intensified and seemed to headline every major news network, magazine, and newspaper. I was glued to the recurring sights and sounds of “We Interrupt This Program; Breaking News; Film at 11 and The Following is a Special Report.”

Beirut had been divided by what was known as the ‘Green Line’ and for years the Lebanese capital had withstood the constant bombardment of daily artillery shells, tanks, bombs, sniper fire and more. As if the presence of Lebanon’s warring factions was not enough, more than 30,000 Syrian troops had earlier entered its tiny neighbor and were stationed in and around parts of the city. Beirut, once known as the Paris of the Middle East had become a city of blood. And, for the first time in history, the armies of the state of Israel would invade an Arab capital. Beirut lay under siege and experiencing it’s darkest days.

A city thousands of years old with a rich archeological history and home to many historic, religious and cultural entities was being leveled inch by inch, mile by mile, a country laden with foreign aggression. And all we could do here at home in the US was watch the television monitors and pray for our loved ones still living in Lebanon. Three and a half years later, the prayers of many were answered. On April 19, 1986, His Beatitude Mar Nasrallah Boutrous Cardinal Sfeir was elected Maronite Patriarch for Antioch and all the East. A small yet gentle man, he began his reign during the midst of a war that had been ongoing for eleven years.

Fast-forward to last week’s significantly momentous and notable meeting between the Patriarch and US President George W. Bush. The Patriarch had to be flown from his residence in Bkerke to Beirut International Airport by way of helicopter due to a million-person People-Power rally taking place in Beirut’s Freedom Square that blocked many streets and blockaded traffic flow. But the Patriarch was determined to meet with the American commander-in-chief. A meeting borne out of mass rallies all over Lebanon and the international calling for the withdrawal of Syria’s remaining troops and intelligence security forces.

Pleas like that of Druze leader Walid Jumblat who was quoted as saying, “Unchain us, leave us, you made us hate Syria,” sprouted freely following the gruesome and horrific assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, the architect of the rebuilding of post-war Lebanon, along with 18 other innocents. A Cedar Revolution had begun and took wing from Lebanon’s youth to bring freedom, democracy and independence to the nation and to find out the truth behind the shocking and ghastly killing of Hariri. As the Patriarch was in the air throughout most of the Beirut rally, he was sure to be briefed on all that transpired once he reached American soil.

Accompanied by an entourage of nearly a hundred priests, monsignors and bishops from around the country, personal security and bodyguards, an advance team, secret service agents, a motorcade, global media coverage, well wishers and paparazzi, the now 85-year old Patriarch made his way around Washington, DC. Morning meetings were scheduled, Masses were said nearly every day, a Druze delegation was met, the new church altar was consecrated, speeches were given at every stop and receptions took place each evening. And somehow, throughout it all, this kind and calm man of peace managed to keep a twinkle in his eye, a smile on his face and the future of millions of Lebanese in his heart and soul.

As he walked into the Embassy, his eyes fixated on me and I could tell he was eager to embrace an old friend. I welcomed him back to the US, and asked God to grant him rest from his tireless work on Lebanon’s behalf and to lengthen his life here on earth. His words that night to the distinguished guests assembled, the Diplomatic Corps, and his old friends were simple, “Lebanon has gone through difficult times in the past and it was able to overcome them. At this time, Lebanon is at crossroads that could lead it in various directions. Only our unity and cooperation could bring Lebanon to the harbor of safety and could insure its prosperity and growth. Therefore, let us put our own personal differences aside and join our efforts for the sake of the free, sovereign and democratic Lebanon.” These words were broadcast all over the world through the magic of satellite.

Today, when I am asked about that encounter along with the situation in Lebanon and the fact that images are being revealed in real time across television stations throughout the world, I must admit that at times it seems as though I am hearing and watching a ‘rerun’ that mirrors a grim not to distant past. But this time, however, there is something different, very different – the stark difference is that I am witnessing these historic images unfolding live and in person before my very own eyes and that this time it’s clearly peace all sides seek, not war.

Michigan City Councilman John Akouri, an American of Lebanese Descent, was Washington, DC Press Secretary & Senior Advisor to US Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI)

	New book: Phoenicians, Lebanon's Epic Heritage. 12-05
	Phoenicians book, A word from the author. 12-05
	Genealogy Holiday Article. Jessica Younnes 12-05
	ALNM appoints chairwoman for th Women's Committee. 6-05
	Tale of life, love, loss, liberty. Book review 6-05
	ALNM appoints chairperson for the youth committee. 6-05
	ALNM honors a giant and a star. Dr. Kantara 6-05
	"Pride of Heritage" Banquet- Mr. K. Hamzeh 5-05
	American Lebanese National Movement. Dr. Kantara 5-05
	Legal assistance everyone can afford. By Charles Hanna
	A man of peace visits the Whitehouse. By John Akouri