Hamtramck Star

On Saturday at 3:57 p.m., a friend called to tell me that Shahab Ahmed was holding some sort of meeting at the Jalalabad Society on Conant at 4 o'clock. I ate a quick lunch and went to see what was going on.

There were about 20 people there, including many of the same people who have been to city council meetings. Shahab Ahmed talked with Akikul Haque Shamim and Ahad Ahmed separately while we waited.

About 5 p.m., the meeting started. Shahab Ahmed, who served as the chair, opened the meeting of the "Bangladesh Avenue Committee" and introduced Mayor Majewski and the other 4 men sitting at the table with him. He explained that committee member Jamilla Begum was not there, and another member was sick.

I was a little surprised by the lack of participation during the Pledge of Allegiance. The majority of the meeting was conducted in Bangla. Ahmed said something to the effect that they needed to be one community, not divided, and something about future generations. He explained that he would allow comments, and then the members of the board would have the meeting.

Shahab Ahmed's itinerary for the celebration included a "presentation of colors", the playing of national anthems, and remarks from guests. Something was said about the fire department, and community image and the media. He said that dignitaries would be there, and suggested hosting a dinner.

A board member said something about fund collection, business donations, and community participation. Shahab Ahmed looked very concerned.

Shahab Ahmed said something about a declaration, Bangladesh and American flags, and the successful annual festival and parade.

A board member said something about an ambassador. Shahab Ahmed said "ambassador", "huge success", "free", "auditorium", "Bridge Academy", and "donations from restaurants" in one breath.

Alisa Perkins was asked about her efforts to invite people at local churches. Perkins said she tried to tell all the churches in time for them to announce it at Mass.

Follow up:

Ahmed said something about a cultural demonstration and The Citizen newspaper.

Majewski said that everyone wants the same thing: a celebration that shows the city in a good light and welcomes and honors the contributions of all. She said this was an opportunity to shine on an international stage. It will take work to make it look seamless and effortless, and she appreciates the committee's work. There was not a lot of time to plan, and she hoped all would help. Some people in the city don't have contact with Bengalis, and this is their chance to introduce the Bengali community and show others what they can do when they work together.

Shahab Ahmed opened the floor for public comments and gave lengthy instructions to the audience.

Eleem from Aladdin Sweets said that the designation is a great honor for them, and he is looking forward to doing more together. He asked people to be open-minded and give their ideas.

Ahad Ahmed said that funds are a major thing, participation will make the event more gorgeous, and if it is free, it will be a huge success. A band would be good to have in the parade, but may cost money.

Shahab Ahmed said that he talked to the Hamtramck Public Schools High School band. He suggested purchasing $100 to $200 in flags.

I believe Ahbab Ahmed suggested hanging banners across the street at Caniff and Carpenter.

At 5:30, Majewski left. She said that they need money, but energy and participation are just as important. She offered to donate $100 towards flags.

A younger man wearing a "Steelworker for Obama" shirt said that the younger generation is growing up without proper leadership, and people need to get together and put their differences aside. He is from Hamtramck, and he is not going anywhere. He wants to look up to his elders, and thanked them for showing that they are putting their differences aside. He suggested charging $25 per head for a formal dinner, and said to let him know if they need help moving things.

Shahab Ahmed agreed that they need to move forward and need more suggestions.

Akikul Haque Shamim explained the different costs associated with having a large event and the process of running a festival. He suggested flags, a band, t-shirts, and balloons. He explained how much money it costs to hire a proper sound system, bring a band from Bangladesh, and put the band up in a hotel. He also talked about the cost of cleaning up.

Shahab Ahmed said something about it being a city event, and that the DPW and security would be provided by the city. I think he said he plans to use the city's PA. He thanked Shamim for his constructive comment.

Ahmed said he wanted to provide dinner at no cost, and asked for Eleem's expertise as a restaurateur. Eleem offered to help with food. Serving costs would have to be considered, and a decision would have to be made about whether to serve on china or disposable plates.

Shahab Ahmed said "buffet".

A vote was taken of the committee, though I can't say for what. The vote was unanimous.

Shahab Ahmed allowed more public comments.

Sam of Dollar King spoke very solemnly. He said that who is coming or not coming doesn't matter. Ahmed declared himself the chair of the event. The list of five people submitted to Ahmed needed to be recognized, but only one person was chosen from that list. Everybody needs to know what is going on and not just one man. It isn't a one man show. Plans should be cleared with leaders.

Ahbab Ahmed wanted to speak, but Shahab wouldn't let him. He let Akikul Haque Shamim speak instead.

Shamim said that no one is 100% right or wrong, and followed this statement with several sentences beginning with "umbra", the Bangla word for "we". The audience clapped.

An older man said something about the jobless and homeless in Michigan, and being proud of Hamtramck. He also mentioned the internet and donations.

The meeting was adjourned.