About AAI

What would you give for two round-trip, Pearl Business Class tickets to anywhere Etihad Airways flies? We’re about to find out! Voted 2009 World’s Best Business Class by Skytrax’ 16,000 voters, Pearl Business Class features dedicated Food and Beverage Managers recruited from the finest restaurants, luxurious seats with a 49” pitch and generous recline, 2x2 configurations for easy aisle access, 10.6” personal LCD TVs, E-Box in-flight movie system, and chargers for your laptop, iPod and other systems. Whether you’re going to Beijing or Beirut, Casablanca or Khartoum, this is the way to travel. Click here for more information about Etihad’s superior service and destination guides. (Some restrictions apply. Click here for more information. Note: travel must be completed by September 5, 2010.)

One week in a recently-renovated house, three floors and a roof-top terrace—fabulous. Set that house in southern France, and it’s priceless! Or almost priceless—a bargain, at the least! A charming village near Beziers and Narbonne, Cruzy is full of interesting surprises— a magnificent 10th century fortress-church; a local museum with everything from dinosaur eggs to Roman artifacts to banners from the 1907 Wine Makers Revolt! Pretty walks abound, and a 35 minute drive will put you on a Mediterranean beach. (Tour of Puff Daddy’s yacht not included.) The house sleeps six, with a ground floor studio with bath (daybed and sofabed), two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms; large living/dining area and kitchen. The rooftop terrace overlooks the plane trees and fountain of the village square, where markets are held twice a week, and the life of the village reveals itself daily. Linens, bedding, towels, utilities, and final housecleaning are included for your one-week (Friday to Friday) stay in April 2011.

Internationally recognized as the leading jewelry designer of the Arab world, Azza Fahmy has translated her fascination with Arab designs from the Middle Ages into an international enterprise. From her first pieces evoked daily life in Egypt, to her now-signature style, rendering jewels of Arabic literature in silver and gold, Fahmy has held steadfast to the traditions of quality and craftsmanship. AAI is pleased to present a unique piece of understated elegance. This 37cm sterling necklace features a front clasp that echoes calligraphic style. On the 3 cm medallion is a quote from Kahlil Gibran worked in silver and highlighted in gold.

Forget lions and tigers and bears. Let’s hear it for gold and diamonds and pearls, oh my! From DMZ Jewelers comes a beautiful diamond and pearl pendant (total diamond weight .19ct.). Set in 14K white gold, this lustrous white pearl is ringed with small diamonds. A diamond ring-loop secures the pendant to an 18” white gold box chain. Elegant, classic … and with any luck, soon to be yours. Unless I get my husband to bid first… I mean, last! Oh, dear. I’d better get that right…

From world-renowned artist Hadi Toron, a painting from his “Fish” series. This 30x30 oil painting features rich, warm colors in a contemporary style. An accomplished artist, Toron lives and works in the United States. Originally from Syria, at 16, Toron traveled to Rome to study classical and contemporary art. Returning to Syria, he studied with Fateh Moudarres and Loyay Kayali, the late masters of Syrian art, at the University of Damascus’ Faculty of Fine Arts. Toron has shown his work in innumerable group and solo exhibitions around the world, most recently at the Rafia Gallery in Damascus. His work can be found in corporate settings and in the homes of private collectors in the US and abroad. Visit his full gallery by clicking here.

One of the finest painters in America, Dean Mitchell’s themes are universal, reflecting his passion for illuminating the “everyday,” and his personal relationship with his medium. “In the simple things in life,” he says, “we retain the essence of time and the true meaning of life."

A Florida native, Mitchell’s watercolor paintings funded his college education. Since then, he has branched into etchings and oil paintings, and is equally well known for his figurative works, landscapes and still-life paintings. From February through May 2010, you can see his work in person at his solo exhibit at St. Petersburg College (Florida).

Or you can see it in person in your own home, by bidding on this item. “Blue Angel” is a signed, numbered, limited-edition (21/75) print from his “Music Deep River in My Soul” series. etching is . In addition to his watercolor paintings, Mitchell is accomplished in other mediums including egg tempera, oil and pastel.

Algerian-born Lamine Hamdad has exhibited at the Alliance Francaise and MOCA-DC in the nation’s capital. As you can see from the pieces featured here, his works are warm and personal—even when they feature the First Lady of France (Carla Bruni) or the first man of eyebrows (Jack Nicholson).

Lamine is offering an incredible item for the AAI auction — using a photo you provide, he will sketch an 11" x 8.5" portrait (suitable for 8x10” mat) in charcoal and terra cotta pencil on paper painted with Sanguine Design Guasch. This is an incredible opportunity to own a first-class portrait of your favorite muse.

And yes, we’re willing to entertain bids on the sketch of Dr. Zogby.

A former teacher and itinerant world-traveler, Karim Kai Logue is also an extraordinarily talented photographer. His works brings to life the beauty—often within the hardship—of daily life around the world. Karim has generously donated this full-color photo of a young woman from Zanzibar. Matted and set in a lovely silver-painted wooden frame, the piece measures 24" x 36" (16"x24" photo). It is a magnificent addition to an existing collection—or a great way to start collecting work from this young artist.

This striking 18” flat rim bowl, donated by the Arab American National Museum, is hand made by Silsal Ceramics, a pottery studio in the heart of Amman, Jordan. The workshop and gallery house a team of artists and artisans working together to produce functional art pieces. Incised and painted to give bas-relief imagery, with special non-toxic glaze designed for practical contemporary use. The design is inspired from the use of Arabic Calligraphy as a decorative element. The words, Good Health, good faith, blessing in abundance, wishes of good fortune, long life and prosperity to the owner are written in Arabic to enhance the subtle beauty of this piece. The sandstone color glazes are characterized by their calm, earthy colors and smooth patina that is typical of stoneware pottery. This is not just a stunning housewarming gift, it makes the house a home by bringing a bit of ancient tradition to the contemporary home.

Palestinian-American calligrapher Nawaf Soliman’s work is showcased in some of the loveliest homes and most prestigious offices in the world, including that of HRH Prince Turki Al-Faisal. And now, it can be part of your own collection. This 18x24” calligraphy, set in a classic silver-painted wooden frame, features a hand-written (in Thuluth Arabic) computer-printed a quote from the great Lebanese-American poet, Kahlil Gibran: My Lebanon is a peaceful majestic mountain seated between the sea and the fields like a poet between eternity and eternity.

From the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris, this print features a tile with a Qur’anic inscription: Surah 48:10 Lo! those who swear allegiance unto thee (Muhammad), swear allegiance only unto Allah. The Hand of Allah is above their hands. So whosoever breaketh his oath, breaketh it only to his soul's hurt; while whosoever keepeth his covenant with Allah, on him will He bestow immense reward.

Custom double-matted and framed (gilt wood), this 20.5" x 36" piece is predominantly green and blue, featuring extraordinary calligraphy and decorative stylized flowers.

You and three guests can enjoy lunch with internationally renowned journalist, author and sometimes stand-up comedian Riz Khan. The host of his own live daily program on Al Jazeera English, Riz interviews politicians, humanitarians, actors and thought leaders from around the world. Over a delicious meal of your choice, find out what the biggest names in Washington, Hollywood, Bollywood, or Cairo are really like. Be sure to ask him about the funnier sides to people such as Desmond Tutu, Dalai Llama, and Wyclef Jean. Be warned, Riz was second-runner up in DC’s Funniest competition, 2008 so come with your funny bone at the ready.

You tune in to CNN to hear them talk about politics — you probably even talk back to the TV: “Yeah, but what about the 2006 elections?” “That’s not what you told John Stewart!” “Seriously – you’re wearing that tie?” Now is your chance to ask them these questions in person. Bring along two friends, and enjoy luncheon with James and John Zogby, AAI’s own Dynamic Duo! President & CEO of Zogby International, John is considered the nation’s foremost pollster, and was named “Most Accurate Pollster” by USA Today in 1996. Find out what makes the nation tick, what makes us vote —and what Americans think is a bigger violation of privacy: posting our photo in a bathing suit, or tracking our location with GPS technology. (Seriously. It’s in the book.) AAI President James Zogby has been a leading voice on Middle Eastern affairs for more than 25 years. He chairs the National Democratic Ethnic Coordinating Committee and is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. And he rarely turns down a good cigar.

In the privacy of your home or location of choice, Ultimate Events will provide a romantic, served, plated, four course, gourmet dinner for two with a choice of Fillet Mignon, Lamb or Seafood Entrée. Client will work with our in-house Events Planners & Chef to customize a menu specifically suited to your tastes. A date will be determined by availability on the Ultimate Events’ calendar and the convenience of the client. Dinner can be customized to a particular theme; Valentine’s Day, Anniversary, Birthday, Promotion, etc. An Ultimate Events service person will set up a table and linens, create an elegant tablescape with fresh flowers and candlelight, welcome guests to dinner and service the 4 course meal. All service, china, silverware & glassware are included. Enjoy a romantic, exclusive evening at its finest. Bon Appetit!!

These beautiful Palestinian handicrafts are made at the Atfaluna Society for Deaf Children in Gaza city. Atfaluna provides vocational and traditional education (including speech therapy and audiology) for thousands of deaf children and adults each year. This registered NGO provides critical income-generating opportunities for hearing impaired and economically disadvantaged individuals throughout Palestine.

Atfaluna’s students learn an array of skills -- woodworking, upholstery, picture framing, sewing, furniture painting and finishing, weaving and rug making, pottery. AAI is proud to offer three pieces generously donated by United Palestinian Appeal. The table runner, pillow cover, and wall hanging are each hand-embroidered in traditional Palestinian designs. The simple fabric (black or ecru) highlights the needlework, primarily in red with hints of yellow and blue. Being auctioned as a set, the pieces can work together or individually… if you can bear to part with one!

From the Embassy of Jordan, two beautiful pillows, hand woven by women at Bani Hamida, part of a community and women empowerment program of the non-profit Jordan River Foundation, chaired by HM Queen Rania Al Abdullah. One in pastels, one in blues and greens reminiscent of the river Jordan, the pillows each measure 16" X 23". Earthy and elegant, the pieces also showcase the work of JRF’s Community Empowerment Program, creating economic opportunities and improving the quality of life for women throughout the country. The Bani Hamida project currently employs about 450 women in spinning, dyeing, and weaving. Display the results in your own home — pay it forward, while you recline in style!

From the Embassy of Jordan, a magnificent hand woven rug produced at the Bani Hamida cooperative. Part of a community and women empowerment program of the non-profit Jordan River Foundation, chaired by HM Queen Rania Al Abdullah, Bani Hamida currently employs about 450 women in spinning, dyeing, and weaving. This fabulous 5.5' x 5.5' rug echoes the colors of the desert — beige sand and yellow sun, worked into a traditional design that will compliment any décor. The hand-worked wool is hefty, able to take on the toughest family duties!

Paris is fine, New York’s okay, but for a fabulous outfit that stands out, stands alone, and hides every single piece of Godiva you ate over the holidays, you can’t beat Arab fashion! From the Asir region of Saudi Arabia comes this gorgeous abyaa. The matte black fabric is a perfect foil for hand-embroidered motifs worked in gold, red, blue, and green—perfect for drawing out the color of your favorite earrings. And, with rich hand-embroidery on the collar, you can forego a necklace — but you certainly don’t have to! Marked as size small, the abyaa fits comfortably up to a size 12. Dry cleaning is recommended… as is wearing this to our 2010 Kahlil Gibran Spirit of Humanity Awards gala!

Begin with dinner at Layalina, where the chef’s blend of traditional Lebanese and Syrian cuisines is well worthy of its 27 Zagat points! The lovely décor, attentive staff, and fabulous food leave no doubt why Layalina has played host to political leaders and royalty (no kidding!), as well as locals with good taste! Our package includes a $50 gift certificate – which will get you a lot (but never enough) of Chef Rima’s falafel!

From dinner, head to The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts for an evening with the National Symphony Orchestra. Led by Principal Conductor Iván Fischer and Music Director Designate Christoph Eschenbach, the NSO is the artistic affiliate of the Kennedy Center. In addition to its annual concert DC season, NSO performs at state functions, presidential inaugurations, and tours four continents. So if you weren’t invited to its last presidential performance, now’s your chance – with two tickets for the Kennedy Center performance of your choice*.

*(March 11-13 excluded)

You finally talked to that girl who gets the double-skim mochachino every morning, and you’re working up to a date night… with no idea of where to take her?
You went to DSW last week and bought a pair of shoes, and you’re looking for a place to wear them?
You want your recent college-graduates to meet a few industry leaders before graduation (read: you don’t want them moving back into the house)?
You told your parents that you’re mingling with the politicos here in Washington… and now they’re coming to visit this Spring and you have to come up with some actual politicos?
I’ve got your back. Four tickets to the AAI Foundation’s 2010 Kahlil Gibran Spirit of Humanity Awards gala. Join us — and approximately 800 of the nation’s leading members of the business, political, diplomatic, and arts communities— for the Arab American community’s premier annual event on April 21, 2010 at the DC Renaissance Hotel.

We can’t promise that Sting will serenade you (as he did for Queen Noor in 2002), or that you can sit next to Mohammad Ali (you had to attend in 2004 for that), or that you can talk about the new season of Law & Order with Sam Waterston (yes, that was a 2008 ticket). But if you missed that, imagine what you’d miss by not bidding on two Individual Host tickets for the 2010 Gibran Gala!

The Arab American community’s premier event, the AAI Foundation’s Kahlil Gibran Spirit of Humanity Awards is a don’t-miss evening. Each year, this black tie dinner brings together roughly 800 leaders from the arts, academics, politics, and business. And this year, after celebrating our honorees—and our 25th anniversary—you don’t even have to vie for a cab or wait for the valet to bring the car. Because this auction item includes not just two Individual Host tickets, but a night at the DC Renaissance Hotel, where the gala is being held. Ladies, that’s a much-coveted night out and away! Gentlemen, it’s 30 minutes less that you have to spend in that tux.

Hand made and hand painted items by Fakhoury Pottery in Jerusalem: • Coffee set, including a coffee pot (22cm tall) and four coffee cups in Multicolor Design. • Square Bowl (17cm) in Fruit Design • Large Square Tray (30 x 30 cm) in Fruit Design • Each piece is lead-free, dishwasher safe and microwave safe. Also included (not pictured): Organic Za’atar (1 lb 2 oz) Prepared by the Jammain Cooperative in the West Bank, this blend of organic herbs is certified fair trade. Za’atar includes dried wild thyme leaves, locally grown roasted sesame seeds, sumac berry powder, and Dead Sea salt. Contains no citric acid. Hand-rolled Couscous (Maftoul) Sun dried, made fresh by Canaan Fair Trade's women cooperatives in the West Bank. ZaatarDiva Palestinian-American poet and performance artist Suheir Hammad has performed in the Tony Award–winning Def Poetry Jam and on NPR. Her first print collection is inspired, energetic, and passionate. Comes with book and CD.

Bad hair day? We’ve got the solution right here. From Farouk Systems, a basket filled with the latest hair products—from a professional blow dryer (that’s 2000 watts, ladies!) to organic styling products; a ceramic flat iron that smoothes your hair without burning it, CHI. You can envy the models on Shear Genius. You can feel sorry for Tabitha’s “Salon Takeover” victims. Or you can get down to business with the products the professionals use. Bring this basket home today… and get rid of your hat collection!

Three sure things in life: death, taxes, and that AAI’s Development Director (Jane Kaddouri) will ask you for money at least three times this year. We can’t do much about death or Jane, but we can offer you a great deal on tax preparation!

Los Angeles-based Husami and Associates provide comprehensive, integrated tax & financial services. Owner and CEO Art Husami has over 30 years of experience in business management, taxation, and finance. Credentialed in business, taxes, investment and risk management, Art and his (credentialed) staff will provide you with the very best service available. Bid now to have Husami and Associates prepare your individual or corporate returns for 2009! (Est. value: $325 – 2,500!)

Has your spouse been bugging you to write a will since about 10 minutes after you said “I do?” Then you should probably move on to the next item in the auction.
Have you been bugging your spouse about writing a will since about 10 minutes after you said “I do?” Then stay right here.
Virginia attorney George Doumar, of Doumar Martin PLLC, will prepare a will (for individual or couple, residents of VA or Washington, DC) anytime in 2010. So much for “it costs too much” or “I’ll call someone sometime” or “I don’t know who to call.” Just click here, place your bid, and the hardest part is done. And the best thing of all? Now you can move on to bugging your spouse about more important things…. Like why he’s not bidding on that vacation in France…
PS If you ask nicely, George said he’ll consider standing on his head, too. But not while writing the will. And only if you significantly increase the minimum bid.