Ethnic Community Committee

City of Sterling Heights ETHNIC COMMUNITY COMMITTEE Official minutes of the Thursday, January 7, 2021 regular meeting, via Zoom conference call. MEMBERS PRESENT: Sharron Allen Mohammed Alomari Willie Dechavez Kozetta Elzhenni Susan Kattula Abul Patwary Iqbal Singh Carmen Williams Stacy Williams MEMBERS ABSENT: Abbott Basal Shawn Taylor OFFICIALS PRESENT: Community Relations Director Melanie Davis Community Relations Services Specialist Sue Giallombardo 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of Agenda: MOTION by Elzhenni, SECONDED by Patwary. Approved 9-0 4. Approval of Minutes: MOTION by Allen, SECONDED by Elzhenni. Approved 9-0 5. Communication from Citizens:  None 6. Communications from the Sterling Heights Police Dept.-Sgt. Kevin Reese: None 7. Agenda A. Building (virtual) Bridges  Allen stated that she continues to participate in the African American Coalition meetings, and is part of their sub-committee that will focus on the business aspect of diversity and inclusion.  Dechavez stated that he took part in the “DIWALI” celebration on November 16; continued working with USP4GG and the feeding program in Sorsogon City; worked on an immunization campaign with APIA Vote; solicited 17 blankets for Operation Warm Blankets in Detroit; and coordinated the USP4GG Virtual Dr. Jose Rizal Day Commemoration, DTE was a sponsor, many local politicians participated including the Mayors from Warren and Troy, and world class  entertainers also participated. He added that the event reached over 4,000 people and was viewed over 500 times during the presentation.  For more information on any of the above mentioned items, please feel free to contact fellow members. B. Immigration Attorney - Volunteer  Davis stated that she was contacted by an immigration attorney that is interested in working with members of the committee in some capacity. Davis asked members to pass along any suggestions.  Elzhenni suggested that he contact Jason Groth at the Library, for a possible program, and he could also be a guest speaker at a New Residents Forum.  Allen suggested that he could give a brief introduction and take part in the virtual Cultural Exchange.  Dechavez stated that he also has a legal source that helps on a pro bono basis. ‘ C. Virtural Cultural Exchange  Giallombardo stated that due to Covid-19 restrictions, the Cultural Exchange would have to be held virtually, and will be happening through the entire month of March.  Davis said that there are several different options, adding that some portions could be held live at Dodge Park. Depending on what will be allowed, we may have to take pre-registrations to allow for social distancing. Another option would be to have groups pre-record their performance that we could share on social media.  Allen suggested giving the entertainment groups the option.  Kattula sugggested setting up displays along a path and cars could drive through.  Alomari suggested moving the date to May.  Davis said that many of the details will depend on the vaccination roll out, group size may be limited.  Dechavez said that he would be able to do a live cooking demonstration.  Davis suggested breaking up the event into sessions, and highlighting a few performers each hour.  C. Williams suggested promoting the restaurants with a type of Tour of Sterling Heights, S. Williams added a suggestion of a booklet, listing as many restaurants as possible with recipes, coupons, etc. Giallombardo stated that she could create the booklet for handouts and also have a pdf version on social media and the city’s website. D. Election of Chair/Vice Chair  Dechavez stated that the floor is open for nominations. He thanked fellow members for the opportunity to be Chairperson for the past two years.  Iqbal thanked Dechavez for his diligent service to our committee, as the chair for two years, adding that he did a lot to promote and execute the committee’s goals.  Allen nominated C. Williams for Chairperson; C. Williams accepted.  Allen nominated S. Williams for Vice Chair, S. Williams politely declined.  Elzhenni nominated Alomari for Vice Chair, Alomari accepted.  Elzhenni made a MOTION to nominate C. Williams for Chair and Alomari for Vice Chair; SECONDED by Kattula. Approved 9-0. 8. Old Business:  Allen asked about details for the storytime readings for Black History Month. Giallombardo said that Sharron’s reading would take place on Feb. 2 at 10:30 a.m. and Carmen’s reading will take place on Feb. 9, also at 10:30 a.m. Giallombardo will touch base with Jason Groth and follow up. 9. New Business:  Alomari asked about water usage in the city and about the possibility of acquiring a second water meter for irrigation. Davis stated that she will follow up with DPW, and added that there are many factors that are taken into consideration on this topic. 10. Adjournment. Meeting adjourned at 7:00 p.m.