10/16/09: Part 6: Reflecting on 25 years of The Arab American News

Part 6: Reflecting on 25 years of The Arab American News

Friday, 10.16.2009, 06:47pm- Arab American News

Community leaders and elected officials comment on The Arab American News' silver anniversary:

Publisher and founder of The Arab American News Osama Siblani (left) poses with Corp! business magazine Editor-in-Chief Edward Deeb after winning an award for being one of metro Detroit’s top diversity focused companies. PHOTO: Nick Meyer/TAAN

"Over the years, I have seen and read many national newspapers involving the Arab American community and heritage. But The Arab American News has been consistently the best such newspaper of its type in America. Your editorial and informational policies have been fair in every way. Your reporters have been able to present world, national and local news in an impartial manner, while giving us the facts of the issues as they occur. Your news has become an excellent resource for various high schools, universities and government when they need special reports on various Arab American topics. The business community, especially small business, has been relying on your newspaper to help spread their word to their customers. We would like to recognize The Arab American News on your 25th anniversary by presenting you with a Distinguished Service Award from Michigan Business and Professional Association and Michigan Food and Beverage Association for the work you have been doing for the past quarter century. Keep up the good work, professional journalism, and dedication to your community for many, many years to come. You deserve it."

Ed Deeb, President, Michigan Food and Beverage Association, Michigan Business and Professional Association, Editor-in-Chief, Corp! Magazine

"Congratulations to The Arab American News on its Silver Anniversary! 　As the Congressional representative of one of the largest Arab American communities in the nation, I am pleased this paper has flourished and enriched the Arab American community for a quarter century.　 May the next 25 years bring even greater success."　

John Dingell, U.S. House Representative, 15th District, Dearborn

"Twenty-five years — what a momentous occasion!　 Your commitment to covering the news and issues that are important to us all sets the standard for journalistic excellence. I applaud your accomplishment and wish you continued success.　 Congratulations!"

Benny N. Napoleon, Sheriff, Wayne County

"I have known The Arab American News ever since I came to this beloved community 17 years ago. The journey of this journalistic service has

been very positive and promising. I commend the courage and commitment of Brother Osama Siblani, Kay Siblani and other staff members for this successful network. While fighting financial challenges and facing hateful harassment, they continue to work for peace and justice and they deserve a big congratulations on this anniversary celebration.This publication's qualified articles and analysis, the latest news and views, national and international coverage have provided the community with a powerful and popular platform. The social and political aspects of the paper are very educational and enlightening. I hope the paper increases its appreciation for spiritual outreach in the community, in particular more focus on faith and family issues."

Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi, Islamic House of Wisdom, Dearborn Heights

"I have watched very closely the last 25 years as The Arab American News has become the voice of the Arab community. It has kept the Arab American community informed on recent and past events. Mr Siblani’s newspaper has educated the Arab American community and the non-Arab community and it serves the best interest of our city, state, and country. Congratulations Mr. Siblani, you are very much needed and please keep up the good work.

It’s necessary that The Arab American News continue its great work and thank you Mr Siblani for providing such a wonderful service."

Don Unis, Vice President, AAPAC, Co-founder, ACCESS

"Among the major objectives of media are to provoke debate, stimulate discussion, report major events and keep people connected, informed and in touch with their immediate surroundings and the community at large. In all of these capacities, The Arab American News has faithfully and professionally fulfilled its role and surpassed its obligations. Good luck as you continue to progress and happy silver anniversary."

Salem Salamey, President, Lebanese American Heritage Club

"We're proud to see this newspaper reach 25 years. We witnessed it from day one and it's amazing how it became the voice of the Arab Americans, not only in Michigan, but accross the nation...its impact went beyond national, to international. We wish The Arab American News more success. Every Arab American should be proud of this accomplishment."

Ali Jawad, Founder, Lebanese American Heritage Club