In the late 60’s and 70’s you would still see widows strollin’ by these spots covered in traditional attire, perhaps on their way to attend a traditional backyard wedding with the most bangin’ Dolma (stuffed grape leaves) you’ve ever tasted. By now, the eldest elders of today’s Chaldean youth have gone to meet the creator and, 1st and 2nd generation Chaldean-Americans are moving mainstream. Acculturation is in full swing with a Chaldean flavor.

Some of the top contracts for construction, catering and event planning during Super Bowl weekend were executed by business savvy Chaldean-Americans. In popular culture local acts, are making moves in entertainment. Singer/musician Steve Acho has performed at Detroit Red Wings hockey, Detroit Lions football and Detroit Tigers baseball games. Off shoots of traditional American fodder like Saturday Night Live and American Idol, have spawned events like Chaldean Idol and Chaldean Night Live that showcase the community’s comedy and musical talent. Acho laughs in regard to CNL, “It’s funny, they cut a DVD of it, so it’s all over Detroit now. Everyone has seen it.” All of this is taking place under the radar of mainstream pop culture. Back in the 80’s the popular paradigm was gold chains and Trans Ams on the Guido tip. Of this Acho says, “Yeah, yeah. That’s a stereotype. A lot of stereotypes are sometimes for a reason. IROC Z’s that’s what everybody had.”

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