DEARBORN — State Sen. Martha Scott, D-Detroit, was honored at an appreciation reception at the Lebanese American Heritage Club in Dearborn on Thursday by local Arab American leaders.

State Senator Martha G. Scott, second from left, stands with community members at a fundraising event at the Lebanese American Heritage Club on Thursday. PHOTO: Khalil AlHajal/TAAN

The event served as a fundraiser for Scott, who ran unsuccessfully for U.S. House in November against Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick and plans to run again in 2010.
Chairman and National President of the Syrian-American Council, Zakaria Khalaf, was among those in attendance who supported Scott.

“I’ve known Ms. Scott for three years and she cares about us and our community,” he said. “She is a hard-working lady and she sticks to her word.”

Scott, whose district includes Detroit, Highland Park, Hamtramck — which boasts a large Yemeni American population, Harper Woods, and the five Grosse Pointes, talked about some of her recent accomplishments and willingness to work alongside the Arab American community.

Scott was particularly proud of her twice-a-month food stamp bill, which passed in March, aiding local grocery store employees and owners. Scott worked with the owners, mostly Arab Americans, to pass the bill, helping to keep business steady in the stores throughout the month.

Faye Awada, president of the American Association of Middle Eastern Women, was also on hand to support Scott.

“She is very sincere and understanding. Whether you’re rich or poor, it makes no difference. She is the best-qualified candidate (for 13th District U.S. Rep. in 2010) and we need to get behind her early and make sure people know about her understanding of all cultures and her sincerity.”

The Arab American News publisher Osama Siblani talked about the importance of supporting Scott.

“She is a good friend to us and she will work with us. The community needs to support those who support us.”