The Voices That Shape Our Community

Sarah Kittle
Editor in Chief

This is a big month for the state of Michigan and for the entire country. The results of the midterm elections will determine the direction of our legislature as we deal with economic challenges, the emergence of AI technologies, and the rules which govern them.

The weeks and months after the election will hopefully allow our citizens to heal the rift that has become quite contentious between the two major political parties and allow the United States to move forward, bridge its political divides, and find common ground on the issues that matter most to its citizens.

Closer to home, we examine an issue that affects community at every level: representation. In our feature, “Representation Matters,” we look at the recent appointment to the West Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees and the questions it has raised about transparency, public participation, and Chaldean American representation in local government.

It raises important questions about how local leaders engage residents, encourage qualified candidates to step forward, and ensure that everyone has a meaningful opportunity to participate in the decisions that shape their community. Representation is not simply about who occupies a seat; it is also about building trust and making sure every voice has an opportunity to be heard.

In this month’s cover story, we meet Crystal Thomas, better known as Coach CT, whose calling to train boxers is guided by her faith in God. Her story is a reminder that faith can shape not only our personal lives but also the ways we serve, mentor, and inspire others.

In “Dianna Rasha: Legacy of Love,” we reflect on the lasting impact one life can have on the people around us and the importance of carrying that love forward. From handwritten notes and thoughtful gifts to prayers, encouragement, and simply showing up when someone needed her, Dianna had a gift for making people feel seen and remembered. After losing her to cancer in 2021, her family is transforming grief into something that continues to give through the Dianna Rasha Foundation.

Elsewhere in this issue, we revisit cherished childhood memories of sleepovers with grandparents, explore the beauty and meaning of the Chaldean Catholic Mass through the eyes of two devout teenagers, and look at Market Square’s acquisition of Papa Joe’s.

We also continue our exploration of the rich heritage of Iraqi poetry with one of the most well-known poems of Abu Firas al-Hamadani, “I See You Resist Your Tears.” This series celebrates the evocative language of poetry that speaks across cultures and time.

In our “Paper Plate Chef” feature, we meet Andrew Boji, whose passion for cooking has grown from sharing meals with family and friends to launching his own seasoning brand, New York Stripclub. His story is a reminder that sometimes the best business ideas begin with a simple passion and a desire to share something good with others.

As we enter the final months of the year, these stories remind us of the many threads that connect the community: faith, family, culture, entrepreneurship, and civic responsibility. Our community grows stronger when we remain engaged and make room for a diversity of voices and experiences.

Sarah Kittle
Editor in Chief