may 4th 2010 issue

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FREE!Email: [email protected] Tel: 718-554-7620VOL. 2 - NO. 56

www.TriStateMuslims.com News, Events, Jobs, Pictures, Videos, Discussion, and lots more!We’re Online!

May 4th, 2010

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Al-Ghazaly Elementary SchoolProud Pioneer of Islamic Education in the USCelebrates 25 Years of Success

“No way, shape or form”Action Does Not Represent American-Muslims

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By Sr. Karen “Amna” MohamedWhen the founders of Al-Ghazaly ElementarySchool first envisioned the educational institu-tion, they knew that the future of our MuslimYouth would depend on the survival of our cul-tural identity, heritage, morality and religiousteachings. When Al-Ghazaly opened its doors25 years ago, the mission was simple: to createan educational atmosphere that would suit theneeds of the Islamic population.

By the grace of Allah, Subhana Wa Ta’ala, dur-ing Al-Ghazaly Elementary School’s 25 years, ithas parented the Islamic Education Foundation,

Al-Ghazaly Jr. / Sr. High School, as well as Al-Hikmah Elementary School which serves thecommunities of Teaneck and Patterson, NJ.

Al-Ghazaly Elementary School has helped manyof it’s educators blossom into leaders in the fieldof Islamic Education. Several former teachershave gone on to principal Islamic schools in Texas,Illinois, New York, and other regions of America. Additionally, previous Al-Ghazaly Elementaryprincipals have gone on to play vital roles inhighly esteemed national Islamic groups, likeISNA(Islamic Society of North America).

The Washington-based Council on American-Is-lamic Relations (CAIR), along with several othernational and regional Muslim groups, said thealleged actions of the Pakistani-American sus-pect are not representative of the nation's Mus-lim community and urged fellow citizens not toallow the incident to be exploited to advancegrowing anti-Islam sentiment.

In a statement released this afternoon at a newsconference in Washington, D.C., CAIR NationalExecutive Director Nihad Awad said in part:

"On behalf of the American Muslim commu-nity, we condemn the attack in Times Squareand thank all those who reported their suspi-cions, disarmed the bomb or are participating inthe current investigation. We welcome the arrestof a suspect and hope that anyone involved inthe attack will be apprehended and prosecutedto the full extent of the law.

"American Muslims repudiate all acts of terror-ism and will continue to work with local, stateand federal law enforcement authorities to keepour nation safe and secure. We ask anyone whohas information about this attack to contact lo-cal police and the FBI. Any person who is afraidto contact the authorities directly should con-tact CAIR. We will then assist these individualsin contacting relevant authorities.

"In no way, shape or form does this attack rep-resent American Muslims or what they standfor as a faith community. We must also, as a civilrights group, remind everyone that we are a na-tion of laws and that in our system of justice,every suspect is innocent until proven guilty.

"We urge that our fellow citizens and our nation'sleaders reject the inevitable exploitation of thisincident by those individuals and groups devoted

ISCJ 35th AnniversaryCelebration & ExpansionProject Fundraiser

Date: May 23rd at 1pmWhere: Ramada Inn 999 US1 N. Brunswick

Contact: 732-329-6995

www.TriStateMuslims.com - May 4, 2010

A N N U A L C O N V E N T I O N

47TH

ROSEMONT CONVENTION CENTER,5555 N. RIVER ROAD, ROSEMONT, ILJuly 2 - 5, 2010

Ingrid Mattson, Mohamed Magid Ali, Tariq Ramadan, Zaid Shakir, Siraj Wahhaj, Maher Hathout, Suhaib Webb, Mokhtar Maghraoui, Muhammad Ninowi, Zainab Alwani, Hamza Yusuf, Altaf Husain, Safaa Zarzour, Andre Carson, Keith Ellison & more!

Invited Speakers

ISNA, MSA, MYNA Sessions, Bazaar, CSRL, Matrimonial Banquet, Entertainment, Interfaith Reception, Art Exhibit, Meet the Author, Qira’at Competition, Film Festival, Children’s Program & more!

Event Highlights

Early Registration Deadline is June 1. Late fees will apply after deadline.

Register at www.isna.net

"...Help one another towards kindness and piety, do nothelp one another in furthering sin and hostility” [Quran 5:2]

C O N N E C T I N G F A I T H A N D S E R V I C E

EVENT & REGISTRATION INQUIRIES: PH (317) 838 8129, or [email protected] & BOOTHS: PH (317) 838 8131, FAX (317) 839 1822, [email protected]

Nurturing Compassionate

Communities


Children Events: Kids will enjoy the 75ft. obstacle course and bouncers... plus lots offun competition both days

Islamic Games 2010May 29-30, 2010

195 Major Road, Monmouth Junction, NJ

Program Guide(Schedule is subject to change without prior notice)

Register at www.Islamic-Games.com or see page 4 for application

Saturday - May 29, 2010 Time Location

SATURDAY MAY 29, 2010Registration/Check-in/Packet Pick-up. 7:00 am IG PlazaNo Team Registration TodayOnly Individual events registration - closes 2 hrs before event startsALL teams competing on Saturday MUST be checked in before 8:00 am

Brother Basketball – Youth & Adults Prelim 9:00 am - 8:00 pm South GymBasketball Junior 2:30 pm– 8:00 pm North GymSoccer - Prelim 9:30 am - 8:00 pm Soccer FieldsCricket - Prelim 9:30 am - 8:00 pm Cricket FieldsTrack & Field 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm StadiumArchery - shoot when you have the time 11:00 am - 4:00 pm Archery RangeTable Tennis 12:00 pm - 7:00 pm Tennis CenterArm Wrestling 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm IG Plaza

Sisters Basketball - Prelim 9:00 am - 2:00 pm North GymTrack & Field 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm StadiumArchery - shoot when you have the time 11:00 am - 4:00 pm Archery RangeTable Tennis 12:00pm - 7:00pm Tennis CenterKids fun competition 10am - 6pm Stadiumocation

SUNDAY May 30, 2010Registration/Check-in/Packet Pick-up 7:00 am IG PlazaNo Team Registration TodayOnly Individual events registration - closes 2 hrs before event startsALL teams competing on Sunday MUST be checked in before 8:00 am

Brothers Basketball - Youth & Adults – playoff & Finals 9:00 am - 7:00 pm South GymBasketball – Junior – finals (if necessary) BTD North GymSoccer - Playoffs andFinals 9:00 am - 7:00 pm Soccer FieldsSoftball 9:00 am - 7:00 pm Softball FieldCricket - Finals 9:00 am - 7:00 pm Cricket FieldsFlag Football 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Soccer FieldsVolleyball 10:00 am - 4:00 pm IG PlazaArchery 11:00 am - 4:00 pm Archery RangeMartial Arts 11:00 am - 4:00 pm South GymTennis 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Tennis CourtsArm Wrestling 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm IG PlazaMarathon 7:00am – 10:00am Stadium

Sister Basketball -Finals 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm North GymSoccer 9:00 am – 12:00 am Soccer FieldsVolleyball 11:00 am - 2:00 pm North GymArchery - shoot when you have the time 11:00 am - 4:00 pm Archery RangeMartial Arts 9:00 am - 12:00 pm North Aux GymTennis 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Tennis CourtsMarathon 7:00am – 10:00am Stadium

Prayer Times:Fajr - 4:45 am | Dhur - 1:30 pm | Asr - 5:30 pm | Maghrib -8:30pm |Isha - 10:00 pmMedals & Trophies Presentation Ceremonies are held after salaat as winners are determined

ATTENTION BUSINESSES:If you would like to sponsor a team at the 2010 Islamic Games

send us an email at [email protected]

ATTENTION TEAM COACHES/MANAGERS:If you would like to be sponsored for the 2010 Islamic Games

send us an email at [email protected]

TEAM EVENTSBasketball - MaleJunior - 9-13Youth -14-16Open – 17 & over

Basketball FemaleYouth -under 13Open - 14 & Over

Soccer MaleUnder 8Under 12Under 17Under 35Over 35

Soccer FemaleYouth - Under 13Adults - Over 14

Volleyball Male - open

Volleyball FemaleYouth -Under 13Adult - Over 14

Softball - OpenCricket - Open

Flag Football MaleYouth - Under 13; Adult - 14 & over

INDIVIDUAL EVENTS(all events Male and Female)

Track Events100M, 200M, 400M, 800M1500MShot Put, Long jumpCategories: 8-10 yrs; 11-12 yrs; 13-14yrs; 15-17 yrs; 18 & over

5K – Over 14 yrsMasters 1200M - Over 40 YrsMarathon – Over 17 years

ArcheryCategories: 8-10 yrs; 11-12 yrs; 13-14yrs; 15-17 yrs; 18 & over

Martial Arts EventsForms (Kata)Sparring (Kumite)Self DefenseWeapons (Kata)Categories: 6-9 yrs, 10-12, 13-17, 18 &over

Tennis – SinglesTable Tennis – SinglesCategories: Novis; Junior; SeniorArm Wrestling - by age and weightDouble Dutch

Islamic Games 2010 - EventsSee page 4 for application

Preregistration or on-site registration is not required for spectatorsor kids coming to the Islamic Games. A fee of $3 will be charged eachday to use the obstacle course and bouncers.

Children Events: Kids will enjoy the 75ft. obstacle course and bouncers... plus lots offun competition both days

LOTS OF HALAL FOODIslamic Society of Central Jersey (ISCJ) is proud to partner withthe Islamic Games. All food and beverages will be provided byISCJ. All proceeds toward their expanion project.

Menu include:Chicken Cheese-SteakGyro SandwichTurkey and Cheese SandwichTuna SandwichRoast Beef and CheesePizzaHot Dog

Kabob RollsBiryani PlaterCarrot & Pound CakeIce-CreamItalian IcesSmoothies & Iced- Teasand lots more!


Islamic Games - Registration FormI am registering a Team Individual

Name of Team or Individual:___________________________________________________ Team Contact peron:_____________________________

Address:_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Tel: ________________________________________________________ Email:______________________________________________________

Select Team Event - Limited to 2 events per team

Male Team Events

Basketball – Junior – 9-13 years – min 3 players Basketball – Youth - 14-17 years – min 5 players Basketball – Open – 18 years & over – min 5 players Volleyball – Open – min 6 players Soccer – Under 8 - min 9 players Soccer – Under 12 - min 9 players Soccer – Under 17 - min 9 players Soccer – Under 35 - min 9 players Soccer – Over 35 - min 9 players Cricket – Senior - min 7 players Softball – Open - min 8 players Flag Football – 8-13yrs - min 7 players Flag Football – 14yrs & over - min 7 players

Female Team Events

Basketball – Junior 8-13yrs - min 3 players Basketball – Open 14yrs & Up - min 5 players Volleyball – Junior Under 15 - min 6 players Volleyball – Open Over 15 - min 6 players Soccer – Under 13 - min 8 players Soccer – Over 14 - min 8 players

Select Individual Events for Athlete(s)

Code Individual Events

100 ........... 100M Run

101 ........... 200M Run

102 ........... 400M Run

103 ........... 800M Run

104 ........... 1500M Run

105 ........... 5K

106 ........... Shot Put

107 ........... Long Jump

108 ........... Masters 1200M - 40yrs & up

200 ........... Martial Arts – Sparring (Kumite)

201 ........... Martial Arts – Form (Kata)

202 ........... Martial Arts – Self Defense

203 ........... Martial Arts - Weapons Kata

300 ........... Tennis (Male)

301 ........... Tennis (Female)

400 ........... Table Tennis (Male)

401 ........... Table Tennis (Female)

500 ........... Archery

600 ........... Arm Wrestling (Male)

601 ........... Arm Wrestling (Female)

700 ........... Iron Man Competition

701 ........... Iron Woman Competition

Registration Fee$15/ Athlete for participation in unlimited events - until May 10$20/ athlete for participation in unlimited events - from May 11 to day of event

Reg. Fee # of Athlete(s)$15

Please make check payable to Islamic Games Inc. and mail to

Islamic Games PO Box 5232 Kendall Park, NJ 08824

=

List of Indiviual Events

X

TOTAL: Please pay this amount As an applicant for participation in the Islamic Games 2010, I herebyagree to the terms and conditions located on page 2.

___________________________________________________________________Signature Date:

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

Name Gender Age Athlete(s) Indiv. Events (max. 5 - use codes on right)

X

CONFLICT OF EVENTS:Islamic Games Management has no responsibility in scheduling to allow a Teamor an athlete to participate in multiple events without conflicts. That is clearly aCoach, Parent and Athlete decision.

Tel: 718-554-7620 E-mail: [email protected]: www.tsmmedia.netMailing address: P.O. Box 5232, Kendall Park, NJ 08824

Please send Letters, Articles or ad requests [email protected]

Articles, letters, and comments expressed in the Tri-State are not necessarily shared by the Editor or thePublisher. All submissions are subject to editing for reasons of space and clarity. The Tri-State Muslim isdistributed FREE and is produced bi-weekly. It is a newspaper by, for and about Muslim in NY, NJ, PA, & CT.The magazine offers coverage of the ideas, issues, events and stories of concern to Muslims in the Tri-StateArea. All contents maybe reproduced with appropriate acknowledgement. TSM Media Reserves the right toreject ads and articles as deem necessary.

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April 15th , 2010 – Morristown Soup KitchenFaiths in Action for Common Cause Campaign

“Muslims Against Hunger Project” haslaunched its “Faiths in Action for CommonCause” campaign by organizing special “Halaland Healthy Meals for all — Interfaith ServeDays” at soup kitchens around North America.Volunteers of various faiths will join hands withMuslim volunteers to prepare hot lunches/din-ners and serve the working poor, hungry andhomeless at the Soup Kitchens.

It is an Islamic tradition to feed the poor andneedy. This time of the year the crowd in soupkitchens is larger than usual because badeconomy has put many out of work. Also, se-niors on fixed incomes are running low on cashas the month wears down.

Serving at a soup kitchen gives the Muslim com-munity an opportunity to participate in the“Act of Righteousness” with other faiths andshow others the true and compassionate face ofthe Muslims and Islam.

Community Service Certificate for 5 hourswill be available upon request

How Can You Help?1- Volunteer Your Time to help prepare meals,serve, and clean up at the soup kitchen. Registerquickly to reserve your spot.

2- Donate to help Hungry and Homeless:Donate to help us in buying food for our soupkitchen events and provide various services tohomeless.You can sponsor meals at $6.07 per meal,PleaseMail your tax exempt donations to:“Muslims Against Hunger Fund”, P.O. Box 12,Pluckemin NJ 07978

3- Tell others who may want to participatewith us and help: Distribute this Flyer to yourfamily & friends; also post it in your Mosqueand other appropriate places.

To help this project and more information pleasecontact: Rehan Seyam, Morristown Project Co-ordinator,e-mail:[email protected] Hassane-mail: [email protected],Phone: 908-364-4441www.muslimsagainsthunger.org

Halal and HealthyMeals for All —Interfaith ServeDay

to demonizing Islam, marginalizing AmericanMuslims and feeding the unfortunately growingIslamophobic sentiment in our society."

Awad said he has asked CAIR's New York andConnecticut offices to work with local Muslimcommunities to offer all possible assistance toinvestigators.

He also urged American Muslim individuals andinstitutions to protect against any possible back-lash by reviewing advice on security procedures

contained in CAIR's "Muslim CommunitySafety Kit."

Other speakers at today's news conference in-cluded:* Imam Mahdi Bray, Executive Director, Mus-lim American Society (MAS) Freedom* Asma Hanif, Chairperson, Council of MuslimOrganizations (CCMO) in the Greater Wash-ington, D.C., Area* Alejandro Beutel, Government Liaison, Mus-lim Public Affairs Council (MPAC)

“No way, shape or form”... from pg 1

A man is taking a walk in Central park inNew York. Suddenly he sees a little girlbeing attacked by a pit bull dog . He runsover and starts fighting with the dog. Hesucceeds in killing the dog and savingthe girl's life. A policeman who was watch-ing the scene walks over and says: "Youare a hero, tomorrow you can read it inall the newspapers: "Brave New Yorkersaves the life of little girl" The man says:

A Walk in the Park...- "But I am not a New Yorker!" "Oh ,thenit will say in newspapers in the morn-ing: 'Brave American saves life of littlegirl'" – the policeman answers. "But Iam not an American!" – says the man."Oh, what are you then? " The mansays: - "I am a Saudi !" The next daythe newspapers says: "Islamic extrem-ist kills innocent American dog.


A few months ago, it was West African Muslimimmigrants in the Claremont Houses of the Bronxwho were paying costly NYPD budget cuts.Now it is the Bangladeshi Muslim ImmigrantCommunity in the Parkchester Section of theBronx.

Parkchester has experienced a large influx ofBangladeshi and African Muslim immigrantssince the early nineties, resulting in a tremen-dous increase of home and business ownershipamong them in the community. And obviouslythis has made them targets of violent personaland properties attacks.

On Saturday, April 10, 2010, a Bengali familywho has been attacked five times in the last sixmonths in front of their house on Pugsley Av-enue, between McGraw and Benedict Avenues,they found themselves again being attacked withbricks destroying the front doors glasses. Luck-ily the window guards protected them and theeight children who were inside from bodily inju-ries. One of the earlier attacks sent the homeowner to the emergency room of Jacobi Hospi-tal, unconscious.

This incident took place around 10:30PM thenight of Saturday, April 10th and Police respondedto their repeated 911 and 311 assisted calls at2:50AM Sunday Morning. When they asked theresponding officers, who never came out of theirpatrol vehicle to see the damages, why it tookthis long for them to come, they had stated that

Budget Cuts Are Cutting Short TooMany NYers’ Lives And Dreams

there were only about six patrol cars available tothem.

If only six police cars are available to the Bronx’slargest precinct at the time of rapidly increasingviolent crime, it is a ripe disaster and a turn backto the worst Bronx days. New York City hasbeen enjoying an overall crime reduction in the

last decade, thanks to the city’s current leader-ship, however allowing the continuation of thepresent crime upward trend will be painfullydisappointing.

So Mr. Mayor, we know and have no doubtabout your commitment for public safety as youand your capable commissioner, Mr. RaymondKelly, have demonstrated over the years, none-theless we are still strongly urge you to restorethe 43rd precinct’s men power before its too late.

Thank you!Sincerely,Sheikh Moussa DrammehChairman

Being a pioneer Islamic School in North America,Al-Ghazaly Elementary School has worked tire-lessly in maintaining a comprehensive educationprogram taught to the highest standards, as de-fined by New Jersey’s Core CurriculumContent Standards. Every year we strive tomaintain and update our programs of study tokeep up-to-date with current researchand learning styles.

With a strong focus on Islamic Studies, Al-Ghazaly Elementary School provides a caring,Islamic environment suitable for any child in theMuslim community. Our core educational cur-riculum is based on the recommendations of vari-ous national councils of education. Combiningthat with Quran classes, Islamic Studies,and Arabic Language lessons, provides our stu-dents with key components that are essential inacademic success.

Al-Ghazaly’s early childhood programs are topnotch. They include full-day classes (7:50 am –2:35pm) for Pre-Kindergarten (3-4 years old),as well as full-day programsfor Kindergarten through Sixth Grades. All fami-lies may take advantage of our After School Pro-grams (2:50 pm – 5:30pm), which includes childcare, homework assistance, and Quran enrich-ment.

With a combined 25 years of experience, ourhighly qualified staff members are dedicated,experienced, and pious teachers. The majorityare certified and hold Bachelor’s Degrees andhigher in the field of Education. The relation-ship between our professional staff and ouryoung students is one built on love and trust. We strive to give our young scholars the strengthof character they will need to reach their fullpotential. Hand in hand with our devoted par-ents, we will help students go forth into the

Al-Ghazaly Elementary SchoolProud Pioneer of Islamic Education in the USCelebrates 25 Years of Success

world as dynamic and responsible members ofsociety.

Al-Ghazaly Elementary is conveniently locatedin Hudson County, easily reached from CentralNew Jersey, and just minutes away from StatenIsland. We are readily accessible from routes 1-9, and the NJ Turn Pike. The Islamic Educa-tion Foundation (I.E.F.), the first Muslim Boardof Education in NJ, proudly invites you to par-ticipate in their mission to educate and preparea future generation of leaders. For tours, finan-cial aid or general information, feel free to callthe Al-Ghazaly Elementary School’s officeat (201)433-5002.

“If I were to pour 140 litres of gasoline on thefloor of this hall, and then light it on fire, whatwould be the pattern of burn injuries on the oc-cupants?” asked Mr. Sinha to an audience raptin attention, and packed to capacity, at SheezanBanquet Hall in Edison, New Jersey.

Mukul Sinha, famous Indian Civil Rights attor-ney, and celebrated for his struggle for justice forMuslim Genocide victims in Gujarat, India, wasspeaking at the Indian Muslim Council’s fundraising event on April 24, 2010. Mr. Sinha, ascientist turned lawyer, and trained at India’smost prestigious Indian Institute of Technology,detailed the sequence of 2002’s unfortunateevents that led to the mass slaughter of thou-sands of innocent Muslims, and the brutal rapeof helpless Muslim women.

“This was not a communal riot involving twogroups; it was a one sided affair, where Muslimswere massacred,” continued Mr. Sinha, whileshowing several photo-slides. One photoshowed a lady dressed in a silk sari emergingunscathed from the charred train carriage atGodhra in 2002, except for superficial injuriesto her head - thus debunking the stateGovernment’s contention that Muslims hadpoured 140 liters of gasoline on the train carriage’sfloor and lit it, causing the death of several Hindupassengers.

Mr. Sinha’s presentation of graphs, summariz-ing his meticulous research, showed the numberof cell phone calls made by key accused Stateministers, from various geographical areas as theywent about inciting people, and the correspond-ing spike in anti-Muslim violence in those areas.It was this very ground breaking research byMr. Sinha, which led to the arrest of two top

Lawyer Mukul Sinha Speaks atIMC New Jersey Event

level State Ministers in Gujarat, India.

Earlier, Mr. Muhammad Yusuf Dadani, Presi-dent, New Jersey Chapter of the Indian MuslimCouncil of USA (IMC) spoke about the reli-gious requirement to take a stand against op-pression and injustice. Mr. Dadani praisedIndia’s secular constitution, and encouraged In-dian Muslims to take advantage of India’s greattradition of upholding Judicial system. Mr.Minhaj Khan, IMC’s Vice President, detailedthe various achievements of IMC, and how it ismaking a difference in the lives of innocent In-dian Muslims falsely accused of crimes that theyhad never committed. Mr. Khan provided num-bers of innocent Muslims that were set free dueto IMC’s legal help, and encouraged everyone tovisit IMC’s website at IMC-USA.org for addi-tional information.

Mr. Najid Hussain, son-in-law of Late Memberof Parliament Ihsan Jafri introduced Mr. MukulSinha, the key note speaker. Mr. Hussain ex-plained that Mr. Sinha exhibited his keen senseof justice, even from their undergraduate school-ing days; that while other students would whileaway their leisure time watching movies, or lis-tening to songs, Mr. Sinha would volunteer histime for social justice causes. Eight years later,Mr. Hussain is still attempting to overcome theshock of Mr. Ihsan Jafri being brutally dismem-bered, then burnt to death by a gang of rightwing Hindu fanatics. Mr. Jafri had been attemptingto save a group of innocent Muslims who hadtaken refuge in his front yard, when he alongwith the other Muslims was violently killed. Hequietly wonders that if the Government of Indiais unwilling to protect it’s own Member of par-liament, then how safe might ordinary Muslimsfeel in the world’s largest democracy?

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(PHILADELPHIA, PA) -- The Philadelphiachapter of the Council on American-Islamic Re-lations (CAIR-PA) held its third Muslim YouthLeadership Conference on Saturday, April 24thand Sunday, April 25th at the University of Penn-sylvania.

At the conference, which focused on commu-nity and interfaith relations, Philadelphia-areahigh school students discussed the diversity ofthe Muslim community and learned how to con-duct interfaith dialogues. The students also par-ticipated in the 7th Annual Interfaith Walk forPeace and Reconciliation.

“It is important that students are proud of thesocial contributions of Muslims in our commu-nity, and it is equally vital that we continue tohave dialogues and to collaborate with othersfrom different faith traditions so that we can all

CAIR-PA Holds Muslim YouthLeadership Conference

make Philadelphia a better place to live,” saidCAIR-PA Outreach Director and ConferenceCoordinator Rugiatu Conteh.

CAIR-PA Outreach Director and Muslim YouthLeadership Program (MYLP) CoordinatorRugiatu Conteh,E-Mail: [email protected], Tel: 215-592-0509;Moein Khawaja, Civil Rights Director,E-Mail: [email protected], Tel: 215-592-0509


Allaah in remembrance. [Al-Qur’aan4:142]

2. They enjoin what is bad and forbid what isgood. The hypocrites both men and women, pro-ceed one from another. They enjoin the wrongand forbid the right and they withhold theirhands (from spending in the cause of Allaah).They forget Allaah so Allaah has forgotten them.Lo! The hypocrites, they are the transgressors.[Al-Qur’aan 9:67]

3. Their alignment with and befriending the dis-believers (kuffaar) as the Most High has said:Bear unto the hypocrites the tidings that forthem is a painful doom. Those who choose dis-believers as their friends instead of the believers,is it honour they seek with them? Lo! All honouris with Allaah. [Al-Qur’aan 4:138-139]

4. Their disapproval of Allaah’s decision. Whenit is said to them, come to what has been re-vealed and come to the Messenger, you see thehypocrites turn from you with disgust. [Al-Qur’aan 4:61]

5. Their lying, treachery and deception and inult during quarrels. The Messenger of Allaah(SAAS) said, “Whoever has the following fourcharacteristics will be a pure hypocrite, andwhoever has one of them will possess a charac-teristic of hypocrisy until he gives it up. When-ever he speaks he lies. Whenever he promises hebetrays. Whenever he makes a covenant heproves treacherous. Whenever he quarrels he isinsulting.” [Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree vol.4, p.269,no.403]

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Shaykh Ahmad Fareed hafidhahullaahTaken from the book “Min Akhlaaq-is-Salaf”(p. 8-10)

From the morals and manners of the Compan-ions was their hard labour in countering hypoc-risy so that their good nature remained the samewhether in public or private. This way theywould have no actions left for their realities tobe exposed tomorrow in the Afterlife.

Once ‘Umar ibn ‘Abdul ‘Azeez (rahimahullaah)was advised, “O ‘Umar, beware of being the allyof Allaah in open, while being his enemy in se-cret. If one’s nature in open and secret do notequate, then he is a hypocrite, and the hypo-crites occupy the lowest level in Hellfire.”

It was said by one of them, “Beware of hypo-critical fear!” On being asked, “What is hypo-critical fear?” he replied, “When your body isseen to be fearing whereas your heart is not fear-ing.”

So search yourself. Does your open and secret(self) equate? Increase in seeking forgivenessknowing that whoever displays to the peoplebeyond what is in his heart is a hypocrite.

The following are some of the characteristicswhich Allaah the Most High ascribes to thehypocrites:1. A lazy attitude towards prayer (Salah) andlittle remembrance of Allaah whilst in prayer.When they stand for prayer, they stand lazily,to be seen by the people, but little do they hold

Striving to Maintain a ConstantNature Publicly and Privately

For the past two weeks, Egyptian actress HananTurk has been criss-crossing the United Stateswith Islamic Relief USA to raise money for thepeople of Palestine. The popular actress visiteda number of major cities, including Chicago,Detriot, Boston, Milwaukee, and New Jersey.The response of the American Muslim commu-nity has been astounding to Ms. Turk’s appealfor the people of Gaza. Alhumdullilah, donersacross the country gave more than $1 million forPalestine just in the past two weeks.

In New Jersey on May 1, 2010, Ms. Turk'semotional speech brought people to tears, as

she made them connect to those in need in Pales-tine. Called “A Night for the Love of Palestine,"the fundraising dinner truly became an outpour-ing of love for Palestinians. Hanan Turk is aninternational friend of Islamic Relief USA andhas visited the relief organization's work site inPalestine.

Egyptian Actress Hanan TurkRaises Money for Palestinians

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It seems to me that the American vision will beforever jaundiced and my regular self will bepainted and attired and then sneered and shoutedat. And worse yet, my Pakistan has no place forme

Mine is a name that causes virtual whiplashes. Ican hear them say “Dr Islam? Are you kiddingme?!” The sophisticated ones bite their tongues;the bold ones, when I introduce myself, extendtheir hand and say, “Then I am Dr Christian!”

One would have expected tolerance and inter-faith harmony to have plummeted post-9/11,with gradual improvement thereafter. But thetincture of time is not working here, quite theopposite; catalysed by the Great Recession,emotions are a-simmer and thin veneers fall fast.

I have partially borrowed the title of this articlefrom the Bollywood production ‘My name isKhan’ in which megastar Shahrukh Khan does aterrific representation of Asperger’s syndrome.The refrain in the film is ‘My name is Khan andI am not a terrorist’ and not only is Asperger’ssyndrome detailed accurately in the film, it suc-cessfully addresses issues such as home-grownterrorism and the steadily escalating antipathytoward anyone remotely resembling a Muslim.

And it resonated with me. For now, on an al-

most a daily basis, there is thinly veiled con-tempt, a poke or a jibe. Time was, even after 9/11, that people were pleasantly surprised that Iwas a Muslim.Expecting hornson my head,flowing robes orat least aheadscarf, Iknow I evokedsurprise for be-ing so boringlyaverage. Butnow I seem to beresponsible forthe Iraq fiasco,the Afghanistan invasion and of course the shoot-ing at Fort Hood — to name only a few Ameri-can and Muslim misadventures.

A 70-year old elderly white female, a patient ofmine for the last 20 years, while checking outafter her visit and planning her next appoint-ment, wags her finger (I was standing right nextto her) and says, “No fighting, no fighting, youstay in your country and I will stay in mine.” Iknow that somewhere along the genealogy line Iam linked to Job. Not a word did I breathe; not

My name is Islam:Mahjabeen Islam

There’s more, read it atwww.TriStateMuslims.com


An-Noor Academy Annual Quran Contest

An-Noor Academy in Piscataway, NJ recentlyheld their Annual Quran Competition. The com-petition is held very year to award top studentsas well as encourge the memorization and tajweedof the Quran. The Winners are:

Darul Huda Tahfeez3rd & 4th Grades1st - Nabihah Rashid2nd - Duha Abueldahab3rd - Habeeba Kattaria

5th & 6th Grades1st - Shahid Shaikh2nd - Shahrukh Raza3rd - Usman Khan &Abdul Rehman Khan

7th & 8th Grades1st - Tausif Alam and Shaheer Ali2nd - Danyal Khan3rd - Aamina Ali

An-Noor AcademyKindergarten1st - Saarah Shaikh2nd - Rahma Rizly3rd - Muhammed Aman Anas

1st & 2nd Grades1st - Ahmed Muhammed2nd - Shurafa Thowfeeq3rd - Huzaifa Ansari

3rd & 4th Grades1st - Juwairia Ansari2nd - Afraah Shaikh3rd - Salwa Ahmed

5th Grade & Up1st - Abdullah Ansari2nd - Lyba Ali & Hira Ali & Yahya Abueldahab

An-Noor Academy & Darul-Huda Institute wasestablished in September 2000 by Muslim Cen-ter of Middlesex County (MCMC) to serve theeducational needs of the Muslim community ofPiscataway and surrounding areas.

This vibrant educational institution of academicand character learning, now in its eleventh yearof successful operation, offers a rigorous andchallenging academic curriculum, and a well struc-tured and comprehensive Islamic Studies, Quran,and Arabic language program. The institutionwhich began its journey from the MCMC Masjidas a small primary school witnessed a remark-able growth in all areas, and soon became a fullyfunctional elementary school. To accommodatethe growing number of students, a bigger facilitywas acquired in 2004 at Roswell Avenue, and theschool moved to its new home.

Later, in order to accommodate more students inelementary as middle school, it acquired anotherfacility located at Ethel Road.

Alhamdulillah, since August 2005, the Ethel Roadlocation is the home to An-Noor Academy Darul-Huda Institute. However, the school still runsits primary classes at MCMC Masjid locationat Hoes Lane.

A number of An-Noor Academy graduates arepursuing graduate or post graduate degreecourses at various New Jersey colleges and uni-versities.An-Noor Academy offers the following- Academic & character excellence in a safe &positive Islamic environment- Rigorous curriculum based on NJ standards- Highly systematic & sophisticated core knowl-edge curriculum- Direct focus on reading, writing & languageskills- Comprehensive Quran & Islamic Studies cur-riculum- Challenging Arabic curriculum with emphasison Arabic conversation- Dedicated, experienced & caring staff- State of the art enrichment programs in English& Mathematics- State of the art computer based grading system- Competitive physical education & creative ex-tra-curricular activities- Emphasis on public speaking & leadership rolefor every child & much more!

Darul-Huda InstituteDarul-Huda institute offers a unique full-timeQuran Memorization Program. As part of thiswell structured program, students take rigorousand specialized classes to memorize the Book ofAllah swt. The classes are taught by a team ofdedicated and professional teachers who havemany years of teaching specialized Hifz classes.There are separate classes for boys and girls.

This unique Tahfeez Program not only placeshuge emphasis on the memorization process, butit offers instructions in math, science, literature,social studies, physical health, and Islamic Stud-ies at the same time. As a result, our Huffaz donot miss out any of the critical academic sub-jects and seamlessly reintegrate into secular edu-cation system after finishing their memorizationof the Quran.

Since its inception ten years ago, Darul-HudaInstitute has produced 26 Huffaz from both boys& girls, and by the end of this academic year(2010-2011), the number of our Huffaz will reachto 29. These Huffaz are successfully leading theTaraweeh prayers in various Masajids through-out New Jersey. The graduates of Darul-HudaInstitute are pursuing bachelor and masters de-grees at different colleges.


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By Sister YasminMany Muslim sisters complain that they haveno one to marry, that all of the good ones aretaken, and that the pool of eligible brothers isgetting shallower by the second. Is this neces-sarily true, or are we as sisters not having enoughof an open- mind when it comes to evaluatingand choosing prospective marriage partners?

As Muslimas, we should first and foremost beseeking for marriage, “those who show patience,firmness and self control; who are true in wordand deed; who worship devoutly; who spend inthe way of Allah; and who pray for forgivenessin the early hours of the morning.” (Qur’an 3:17).Instead, we are too preoccupied with the waythe brother looks (is he handsome enough/tallenough/muscular enough), his age (is he too oldor too young), his race/nationality/culture/ethnicity, his financial status/career/educationlevel, whether he has been married before and ifhe has children, whether he is a born Muslim ora convert, among other insignificant things.

First of all, good looks often fade, but one’s trueand sincere piety lasts forever. As far as agegoes, it is just a number. The ProphetMuhammad (pbuh), as we are well aware, wasnot the least bit concerned about age when itcame to choosing marriage partners. Khadijahwas 40 years old when she married The Prophet,who was 25 at the time. On the other end of thespectrum, his wife Aisha was much, muchyounger than he was.

The Prophet (pbuh) was a perfect example of atruly wonderful human being. We as Muslimsclaim to follow in his footsteps in all areas, butwe seem to fall short of this when it comes toemulating his views and actions where marriageis concerned. In addition to age, he was also notconcerned with whether the person had beenmarried before; as we know that Aisha was theonly virgin among his many wives. We asMuslimas should be looking for a brother whosees The Prophet as his role model. AlthoughHe was a man, The Prophet was far removedfrom all evil characteristics. He strove solely forthe sake of Allah and His reward in Paradise.Moreover, in all of his dealings and actions, Hewas always fearful and mindful of Allah.

We as Muslimas should not feel that we mustonly have first wife status. If a brother is a goodand pious man, and he does not already havefour wives, then he is still available for marriagein the eyes of Allah. Allah has granted brothersthe ability to “…marry women of your choice,two, or three, or four…” (Qur’an 4:3). TheProphet (pbuh) treated all of his wives with re-spect and kindness.

Muslimas must not be concerned with whetheror not a brother is a born Muslim or a convert.Just because someone is a born Muslim doesnot mean that he is a better Muslim than a con-vert. A pious brother is a pious brother, regard-less. A pious brother is a believer who abstainsfrom sins of all kinds, performs all good deedsthat Allah has commanded us to perform, andone who loves and fears Allah. Nowhere in thatdefinition of piety is being born into Islam aprerequisite.

Is There Truly a Shortage of Good, Eligible Muslim Men?

In Islam, compatibility in marriage is connectedto righteousness and religious commitment, notrace, lineage, status, or money. Allah looks atour hearts and our deeds. He does not judge usaccording to our wealth or appearance and looks.We are all equal asMuslims. Racism isnot allowed in Is-lam. The Qur’anspeaks of humanequality in the fol-lowing fashion; “Omankind, we havecreated you from amale and a female andhave made you intonations and tribesfor you to know oneanother. Truly, thenoblest of you withAllah is the mostpious. Truly Allahis All-Knowing, All-Aware.” (Qur’an49:13).

Islam rejects certainnations or individuals being favored because oftheir race, power, or wealth. Allah created us asequals who are to be distinguished from one an-other solely on the basis of their piety and faith.The Prophet Muhammad said: “O People! YourGod is one and your forefather Adam is one. AnArab is not better than a non-Arab and a non-Arab is not better than an Arab, and a red personis not better than a black person and a blackperson is not better than a red person, except inpiety.”

The Prophet (pbuh) never indulged inluxurious food or garments. He ate what he hadand he wore what he had. His life was an amaz-ing model of humbleness and simplicity. Hemended his own shoes and patched his ownclothes. Aisha, his wife said, “The mattress ofthe Prophet on which he slept, was made ofleather stuffed with the fiber of the date-palmtree.” Amr Ibn Al-Hareth, one of Muhammad’scompanions, said that when the Prophet died,he left neither money nor anything else excepthis arms, his white riding mule, and a piece ofland which he left to charity. He was the mostmodest of the people, and would answer theinvitation of any who invited him, regardless ofwhether that person was poor or rich, noble orcommon. He loved the needy and the poor, andhe used to entertain the noble. He used to meetall the people with cheer, and he was neverknown to be unkind or rough to anybody. Henever acted haughty; never placed himself aboveanybody else in food or clothing. He never in-sulted a poor man for his poverty, nor did heever fear a rich man for his status and power.

Poverty coupled with evident righteous-ness and a strong religious commitment is betterthan a good lineage and wealth coupled with alack of religious commitment and a corrupt na-ture. Allah says: “If they be poor, Allah willenrich them out of His Bounty, And Allah is All-Sufficient for His creature’s needs, All-Knowingabout the state of the people.” (Qur’an 24:32).

The following incident took place whenMuhammad Ali’s (Clay) daughters arrived at hishome wearing clothes that were not modest. Hereis the story as told by one of his daughters:

“If memory serves me correctly, I was wearing alittle white tank top and a short black skirt. I hadbeen raised Orthodox Muslim, so I had never

before worn such revealing clothing while in myfather’s presence.

When we finally arrived, the chauffeur escortedmy younger sister, Laila, and me up to myfather’s suite. As usual, he was hiding behind thedoor waiting to scare us. We exchanged manyhugs and kisses as we could possibly give in oneday.

My father took a good look at us. Then he satme down on his lap and said something that Iwill never forget. He looked me straight in theeyes and said,

“Hana, everything that God made valuable inthe world is covered and hard to get to. Where doyou find diamonds? Deep down in the ground,covered and protected.

Where do you find pearls? Deep down at thebottom of the ocean, covered up and protectedin a beautiful shell. Where do you find gold?Way down in the mine, covered over with layersand layers of rock.You’ve got to work hard to get to them.”

He looked at me with serious eyes. “Your bodyis sacred. You’re far more precious than diamondsand pearls, and you should be covered too.”(Source: More Than A Hero: Muhammad Ali’sLife Lessons Through His Daughter’s Eyes.)

ModestyExplained ByMuhammad Ali

One of the Sunnahs of the early genera-tions that has been lost in these modern materi-alistic times is that of a Muslima offering herselfin marriage to a righteous and religiously com-mitted brother. These women were keen on en-

suring their chastity and did not ignore any meansof achieving that, instead they used to exploreall means. In the Hadeeth of Anas, it was nar-rated that Anas said: “A woman came to theProphet and offered herself in marriage to him.”She said: “O Messenger of Allah, do you haveany need of me?” The daughter of Anas said:“How little modesty she had! What a bad thingto do!” He said: “She was better than you, forshe wanted to marry the prophet and she of-fered herself to him in marriage.”

As we recall, Khadijah was so very pleasedwith the Prophet and impressed by his compas-sion, truthfulness, bravery, mercy, trustworthi-ness, and nobility of character, that she pro-posed marriage to him.

If the righteous Muslima feels that shewants to get married, she should look for a righ-teous man and she should either propose her-self, or ask her guardian to marry her to a manwith whose religious commitment and charactershe is happy and pleased with. She should askher guardian to protect her religious commitmentby shunning foolish customs such as looking atwealth, family connections or lineage. Marriageis for the preservation of chastity, not for thepurpose of business deals. Through marriage,life is given order and bonds are strengthenedbetween people. Muslims can find peace ofmind in being able to fulfill their natural desireswithin a lawful framework, and thus the earth ispopulated and generations can increase and grow.

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Why should I wear hijab? This is a good ques-tion and there is a beautiful answer! Allaah hascommanded us with every action that is good forus and prohibited us fromperforming every actionthat is bad for us. Allaahorders the Muslim womanto wear the hijaab whenshe steps out of the secu-rity of her home or whenin the presence of strangemen. So to wear the hijaabis a source of great goodfor you – the Muslimwoman - for many rea-sons. Among them: Youplease Allaah. You areobeying the commands of your Lord when youwear the hijaab and you can expect great rewardsin return.

It is Allaah’s protection of your natural beauty.You are too precious to be “on display” for eachman to see.

It is Allaah’s preservation of your chastity.Allaahpurifies your heart and mind through the hijaab.Allaah beautifies your inner and outer counte-nance with hijaab. Outwardly your hijaab reflectsinnocence, purity, modesty, shyness, serenity,contentment and obedience to your Lord. In-wardly you cultivate the same.

Allaah defines your femininity through the hijaab.You are a woman who respects her womanhood.Allaah wants you to be respected by others, andfor you to respect yourself.

Allaah raises your dignity through the hijaab.When a strange man looks at you, he respectsyou because he sees that you respect yourself.

Allaah protects your honour 100% through yourhijaab. Men do not gaze at you in a sensual way,they do not approach you in a sensual way, and

Allah Brings About Peace & Stability Through the Hijaabneither do they speak to you in a sensual way.Rather, a man holds you in high esteem and thatis just by one glance at you!

Allaah gives younobility throughthe hijaab. You arenoble, not degraded,because you arecovered and not na-ked.

Allaah demon-strates your equal-ity as a Muslimwoman through thehijaab. Your Lord

bestows upon you equal worth as your malecounterpart, and gives you a host of beautifulrights and liberties. You express your acceptanceof these unique rights by putting on the hijaab.

Allaah defines your role as a Muslim womanthrough the hijaab. You are a someone with im-portant duties. You are a reflection of a womanof action not idle pursuits. You display yoursense of direction and purpose through yourhijaab. You are someone that people take seri-ously.

Allaah expresses your independence through thehijaab. You are stating clearly that you are anobedient servant of the Greatest Master. Youwill obey no one else and follow no other way.You are not a slave to any man, nor a slave toany nation. You are free and independent fromall man-made systems.

Allaah gives you the freedom of movement andexpression through the hijaab. You are able tomove about and communicate without fear ofharassment. Your hijaab gives you a unique con-fidence.

Allaah wants others to treat you – a Muslim

woman - with kindness. And the hijaab bringsabout the best treatment of men towards you.

Allaah wants your beauty to be preserved andsaved for just one man to enjoy: your husband.

Allaah helps you to enjoy a successful marriagethrough wearing hijaab. Because you reserveyour beauty for one man alone, your husband’slove for you increases, he cherishes you more,he respects you more and he honours you more.So your hijaab contributes to a successful andlasting marital relationship.

Allaah brings about peace and stability in thesociety through the hijaab! Yes this is true! Mendo not cause corruption by forming illegal rela-tionships because you - the Muslim woman -calm their passions. When a man looks at you,he feels at ease, not tempted to fornicate…

So a Muslim woman in hijaab is dignified, notdishonoured, noble, not degraded, liberated, notsubjugated, purified, not sullied, independent,not a slave, protected, not exposed, respected,not laughed at, confident, not insecure, obedi-ent, not a sinner, a guarded pearl, not a prosti-tute…

Dear Muslim sister! Come towards the gates ofParadise with us! Fulfill your duties towardsAllaah, put on your adornment - put on yourhijaab, and race towards Jannah (Paradise) bydoing all good actions. You should agree by nowthat wearing hijaab is extremely beneficial – itmust be - because Allaah only commands whatis good……and believe me, dear sister, it is goodto obey the commands of your Lord…

“Their reward is with their Lord: Gardens ofEden underneath which rivers flow wherein theywill dwell for ever; Allaah is pleased with them,and they are pleased with Him; this is (in store)for whoever fears his Lord.” [Sooratul-Bayyinah98:8]

By Dina Rabie, IOL Staff

Matrimonial websites provide a platform foryoung Muslims to meet and learn about whatthey expect in a marriage.WASHINGTON – In America, a growing num-ber of single Muslims resort to matrimonialwebsites in their pursuit for life partners, seeingthe cyberspace as a more accessible way to findMr/Ms Right.

"We have people accessing our website from allacross the US. We have people from Colorado,Missouri, Nevada," Vaseem Ansari, executivedirector of the Companionships matrimonialwebsite, told IslamOnline.net.

The website was established in 2004 under thedirection of Mohamed Majid, the imam of theAll Dulles Area Muslim Society, to help Mus-lims looking for marriage partners.

"I got so many requests from young people tohelp them find the right spouses," recalls Majid.

"When it became so many requests, I reachedout to young couples and established Compan-ionships with me and my wife putting the pro-gram together."

The goal in Companionships program is to pro-vide a platform for young Muslims to meet andbe introduced to Islamic matrimonial education.

"We work professionally," said Ansari, addingthat they get many professional, educated andarticulate people who just need help finding the

right spouse.

"Some of them just do not want to go for tradi-tional marriage and want to try a different thing."

She explained that interested people registeronline and provide background about them,where they are from and what they are lookingfor in a spouse.

The matrimonial website then arranges for re-treat events where soul-mate seekers get togetherin a kind of a workshop.

"They meet other participants, do activities to-gether, we ask them provoking questions aboutsocial skills, religion and politics so that all par-ticipants know each other’s background and pri-orities in life," explains Imam Majid.

They follow up with those who approach themon proposing to other participants and providethem counseling as well.

"Even if participants do not find spouses, theyget to learn abut marriage and what it is about."

Needed, Accessible"We are creating a virtual community that is moreaccessible for them," imam Majid told IOL.

Imam Majid says that like Companionships,there are many other matrimonial websites thatattract US Muslims.

"There are many Muslim matrimonial websitesnowadays and Muslims, especially young

people, use them a lot," he asserted.

"They even go to non-Muslim matchmakingwebsites and participate in it."

Some Muslim organizations like the Islamic So-ciety of North America (ISNA) has realized thatand created its own matrimonial website too.

Imam Majid believes that such websites helpmeet a need in the American Muslim commu-nity, estimated at nearly seven millions.

"They are very diverse, so scattered across theUnited States," he noted.

"We are creating a virtual community that is moreaccessible for them."

Ansari agrees that matrimonial websites respondto the community’s needs.

"A lot of people are immigrants from differentcountries. They do not have big communities asback home and their families are not together,"she explained.

"They need this social connection."

She added that they get in their program manyprofessional, educated and articulate people whojust need help finding the right spouse.

"Some of them just do not want to go for tradi-tional marriage and want to try a different thing."

US Muslims Go Cyberspace for Soul Mates

PAKPAC condemnsNY attemptedbomb plotWashington DC: May 4th, 2010: The Paki-stani American Public Affairs Committee(PAKPAC) condemns the Times Square at-tempted attempted bomb plot over the week-end. We appreciate the efforts of the New YorkPolice Department as well as the FBI and vigi-lant NY residents in responding to this incidentand saving hundreds of lives. PAKPAC isshocked and saddened to learn that the prime

suspect is of Pakistani heritage. Though detailsof the case are still being uncovered and investi-gations are on going, we denounce this attemptedattack on our soil and seek that this individual orany accomplice, to be tried and punished underAmerican Judicial system. Whether this is an actof a lone individual or a group, it harms everyoneand benefits no one. As a community, we shouldhave zero tolerance for such acts as they damageand disrupt the way of life of Americans.

PAKPAC agrees with President Obama’s call forall citizens to be vigilant, it maybe be recalledthat it was reporting by a vigilant NY residentthat stopped this tragic incident from happen-ing. PAKPAC and Pakistani Americans are com-mitted to protect and defend the United Statesof America. We ask the Pakistani Americans andAmerican Muslims to demonstrate an iron re-solve against terrorism and to remain vigilant andcontinue to report anything that is illegal or sus-picious to law enforcement agencies.

Janet Napolitano, Secretary of the Departmentof Homeland Security, stated on the “Today”show that it was premature to label any personor group as suspect. “Right now, every lead hasto be pursued,” she said. “I caution against pre-mature decisions one way or the other.” PAKPACrequests that the U.S. law enforcement agenciesand American community to safeguard the civilrights of the thousands of law abiding PakistaniAmericans and ensure that there is no backlashagainst the community, locally in Connecticut oracross the nation. Pakistani American commu-nity seeks to work together with the ObamaAdministration and law enforcement agencies,and to provide them with resources to protectthe safety of our nation and its citizens.

The US ambassador to Islamabad Anne Pattersonheld talks with Pakistani Foreign Minister ShahMehmood Qureshi on this issue. Mr. Qureshiassured Pakistan’s full cooperation to US in thisregard. The nation of Pakistan along with itsarmed forces has given unprecedented sacrificesin US-led war on terrorism. It is estimated thatover five thousand Pakistani military and civil-ians have lost their lives, while Pakistan economyhas suffered a loss of $35 billion since Septem-ber 11 attack. PAKPAC welcomes the full coop-eration offered by Pakistan Government.

FOR FURTHER CONTACT:Executive Director: Irfan Malik [email protected] 558 6404. Connecticut contact: Saud [email protected] 202 558 6404


Minimum RequirementsGood Islamic character withsound knowledge of Islam.Legal status with valid So-cial Security number.Proficiency in the Englishlanguage (a must for all aca-demic subject teachers).Preferably one year experi-ence in the applied position.

Salary based on qualifica-tions and experience.Tuitiondiscounts available for em-ployee children. Interestedcandidates should fax theirresume to 718-222-4985.

383 3rd Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11215Tel: 718-222-4986 Fax: 718-222-4985

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(www.IslamReligion.com)My new position at the Islamic school was re-ceived with reserved enthusiasm from my Chris-tian family. “Just make sure you do not con-vert,” my father-in-law at the time told me whenhe found out about it. My mother-in-law wasintrigued by the idea of being around something“exotic”. I grappled with whether I wanted towork at this school. While I would have my ownclassroom (which I desperately wanted), I wouldonly be part-time and I would be required todress Islamically (even cover my hair). Thiswhole concept was very foreign to me. I debatedwith myself for a day or two until deciding totake my first teaching assignment at this school.I was open and determined that this would be alearning experience for me. Boy, was it ever….

On the first day, the new “non-Muslim” teach-ers were given a “scarf” lesson by a sister in theteacher’s workroom. We were laughing as wetried different styles. I still remember that morn-

ing being pretty relaxed, and it was during thisevent that I realized I always thought Muslimswere stern and serious. It is strange how one canhold certain stereotypes of people without evenknowing them. Cross off one misconception…

During my 1st year of teaching, I learned manythings. I was extremely impressed with the waythat my students knew my religion (Christian-ity) better than I did. How did they know thestories? My students were always asking mequestions about my beliefs, and they made methink. What DID I believe?

I was brought up Catholic, and as an adult, Istarted to stray from it. I didn’t know what itwas that I felt uncomfortable with, but I justknew something wasn’t right. I ventured a littleinto the new-age type of Christianity, but someof that didn’t sit right with me either. I just knewthat I wanted to connect with God. I didn’t wantmy religion to become something that I felt I had

to do in order to be considered a “good person”in the eyes of my relatives (as was the case withmy husband). I wanted to feel it in my heart.Looking back now, I was lost, but didn’t know itat the time.

Kids will be kids, and my Muslim students wereno different. They left their books in my class-room instead of taking the home. This was ablessing in disguise as I started to read thesebooks after class. So much of it made sense. Tohelp matters along, one sister and brother weremore than happy to answer all of my questions,and I had many! We would discuss Islam andreligion for hours. It was very intellectuallystimulating and I was excited about it. I felt thatI had found what I was looking for. There was apeace slowly spreading over my heart…

Around this time, I started to read the Qu’ran athome. My husband at the time (I have sincedivorced him) did not like my interest in Islam.When I would read the Qu’ran, I would do so inprivate without his knowledge. At first, I feltthat I was doing something blasphemous. I re-member being very scared that God would beupset with me. How can any book other thanthe Bible be from God?? I tried to listen to myheart, and it was telling me to read. Some of thepassages of the Qu’ran felt as if they were writ-ten just for me. I found myself sitting there andcrying many times. All at once, I felt at peace,yet confused. There was something holding meback from accepting it full-heartedly.

After months of reading, talking with people,and a lot of soul searching, there was one eventthat I consider to be the determining factor in mybecoming Muslim. I was standing in my son’sroom trying to pray. I had a book on Islam openedto the “how to pray” section. I was standingthere in conflict with myself. I was not used to

praying directly to God. All of my life I wastaught to pray to Jesus, who would then tellGod my prayer (or something like that). I wasso scared that I was doing something wrong. Ididn’t want Jesus mad at me. At that moment, ithit me like a tidal wave. Did I really think thatGod would be upset at me for wanting to getcloser to Him? Did I really believe that Jesuswould be upset with me for trying to get closerto God? Isn’t that what he wants me to do? Godknows my intent. To this day, I believe it wasGod talking to me-that is how powerful the feel-ing and voice inside my head was. What did Ihave to fear?? How could I NOT convert to Is-lam? At that moment, I started crying and cry-ing. It was what I needed to hear. I knew at thattime that I had to convert to Islam. It felt rightand nothing else mattered.

After taking my shahada in front of the entireschool, I was a new person. I did not have that“where-do-I-belong-and-what-do-I-believe-in”feeling anymore. It was gone. I knew that I madethe right decision.

I have never been so close to God as I have beensince becoming Muslim. Alhamdullilah. I am solucky. Thank you for allowing me to share myexperience with you.

A spiritually dissatisfied American Catholicteacher found fulfillment and directionthrough her new job at a Muslim school.

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47th Annual ISNAConvention

Rosemont ConventionCenter

Contact: www.ISNA.net317-839-8157

July 2-5 ‘10Rosemont, IL

May 29-30 ‘10South Brunswick, NJ

Islamic Games 2010Crossroads Schools - 195 Major Rd,

For vending and registrationcontact www.Islamic-Games.com

ICMC Bridal BanquetBenefit

Regency House Hotel140 Route 23 North

Contact:[email protected]

May 21 ‘10Pompton Plains, NJ

1. Lemon being a citrus fruit, fights against in-fection. It helps in Production of White BloodCells and antibodies in blood which attacksthe invading microorganism and prevents in-fection.

2. Lemon is an antioxidant which deactivates thefree radicals preventing many dangerous dis-eases like stroke, cardiovascular, diseases andcancers.

3. Lemon lowers blood pressure and increasesthe levels of HDL (good Cholesterol).

4. Lemon is found to be anti-carcinogenic whichlowers the rates ofcolon, Prostate andbreast cancer. Theyprevent faulty me-tabolism in the cell,which can predis-pose a cell to becom-ing carcinogenic.Also blocks the For-mation of nitrousamines in the gut.

5. Lemon juice is saidto give a glow to theskin.

6. A few drops of lemon juice in hot water arebelieved to clear the Digestive system andpurify liver as well.

7. The skin of lemon dried under the sun andthen ground to make powder can be appliedto the hair for a few minutes before bath whichrelieves head ache and cools the body.

8. Applying lemon juice to acne dries the exist-ing ones and prevents from getting more.

9. Lemon juice acts as a natural hair lighter andskin bleach which Reduces the pigment mela-nin and prevents the risk of chemical allergicreactions which is common with hair dyesand bleaches.

10. Lemon juice is given to relieve gingivitis, sto-

machic, and inflammation of the tongue.11. Lemon juice is used to prevent common cold.12. Lemon juice is given to prevent/treat urinary

tract infection and Gonorrhea.13. Lemon juice is applied to the sites of bites

and stings of certain Insects to relieve itspoison and pain.

14. Lemon juice relieves colic pain and gastricproblems.

15. Lemon juice soothes the dry skin when ap-plied with little glycerin.

16. Lemon juice used formarinating seafood ormeat kills bacteria andother organisms presentin them, thereby preventsmany gastric-intestinaltract infections.17. Lemon juice with apinch of salt (warm) ev-ery morning lowers Cho-lesterol levels and bringsdown your weight.18. Lemon juice is the

best drink to prevent dehydration and shockin case Of diarrhea.

19. Lemon juice can also be used as a mouth-wash. It removes plaque, whitens the teethand strengthens the enamel.

20. A table spoon on thick lemon syrup every-day relieves asthma.

21. Lemon juice relieves chilblains and itchy skin.22. Gargling lemon juice relieves throat infection

and also used as a Treatment for diphtheria.23. Lemon juice is an excellent treatment for dan-

druff and greasy hair.24. Lemon juice, applied over the face, removes

wrinkles and keeps you young.25. Lemon juice helps to prevent and cure os-

teoarthritis.

25 Great Uses For Lemon

Prawn CurryIngredients

* 1 lb prawns * 5 green chilies, chopped * 2 onions, chopped * 1 small bunch spring onion leaves, cilantro leaves * 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste * 2 tomatoes, chopped * 2 tsp chili powder * 1 tsp turmeric * 4 tbsp oil * 2 tsp garam masala * Salt to taste

DirectionsClean the prawns in salt water to avoid the smell of the prawns(if it bothers you..) Heat oil in a pan. Add green chilies, onionsand fry until brown. Add ginger-garlic paste, spring onionleaves, cilantro and fry for some more minutes. Then addtomatoes, prawns and cook until they are done. Add salt, chilipowder, garam masala and fry for 5 minutes. Garnish withcilantro leaves.

CAIR-NY Annual BanquetI am Muslim, I am American

Grand Ballroom,Manhattan Ctr Studios

Contact: www.cair-ny.orgMay 15‘10NYC, NY

Muslim Women United of Richmondpresents 19th Annual Conference

Sheraton Richmond WestHotel - 6624 W. Broad St.

Contact: (804)-285-2000Jun 19 ‘10Richmond, VA

18th Annual IslamicHeritage Festival & Parade

Penns Landing Contact: 610-352-0424Jun 19 ‘10Philly, PA

ISCJ Expansion ProjectFundraiser

Ramada Inn999 US 1 N. Brunswick

Contact:732-329-6995May 23‘10N. Brunswick, NJ

Al Shifa FoundationFundraising Program

Anutun’s 244 West OldCountry Rd

Contact: 609-933-6193May 22‘10Hicksville, NY

Al Maghrib Inst. PresentsEchoes of A Cave

NJIT Campus Ctr Contact: www.almaghrib.org/newjersey

June 11-13‘10Newark, NJ

Muslim Boy & GirlsSummer Camp

Registration is NOWOpen!

Contact: [email protected] 1 - Aug 25‘10Monticello, NY


Bellingham, WA, USA (April 13, 2010) - SaturnaCapital Corporation, a U.S. investment manage-ment company, was awarded the Failaka IslamicFund Award for the Best Global Equity Fund inthe three-year category for its flagship AmanaIncome Fund (AMANX). The award was pre-sented at the Fifth Annual 2009 Islamic FundAwards held April 12, 2010, at the JumeirahEmirates Towers Hotel in Dubai, UAE.

The Amana Income Fund earned this distinctionby achieving the best three-year performanceamong the 38 Sharia compliant funds in the Glo-bal Equity category.

Failaka Advisors was established in 1996 and isrecognized as the global leader in Islamic fundresearch and reporting. Failaka currently tracksthe performance of over 350 funds worldwide.Since Failaka began its awards program in 2005,the Amana Funds and Saturna Capital have re-ceived a total of eight awards http://www.saturna.com/news.shtml.

“We are extremely honored to accept this Failakaaward for our performance during one of themarket’s most volatile three-year periods ever,”said Nicholas Kaiser, portfolio manager of theAmana Funds, and chairman and founder ofSaturna Capital. “Our principled and disciplinedmethod of investment management serves ourinvestors well in such an environment. Thiseighth Failaka award is a testament to our long-term value investment approach and commit-ment to putting our shareowners’ interests first.”

In 2008, the Amana Income Fund swept the BestU.S. Islamic Fund category with performanceawards in the one-, three- and five-year catego-ries. The Amana Income Fund also received theBest Islamic U.S. Equity Fund award in 2006.

Saturna Capital, adviser to the Amana Funds,has received three Failaka awards as manager ofthe Amana Funds: in 2006 and 2007 for BestIslamic Fund Manager - U.S, and in 2005 forBest Islamic Fund Manager - Worldwide.

The U.S.-registered Amana Mutual Funds, con-sisting of the Amana Income (AMANX), AmanaGrowth (AMAGX) and Amana DevelopingWorld Funds (AMDWX), are designed for Mus-lim Americans who wish to invest according toIslamic principles (Sharia). However, the AmanaFunds’ appeal outside the Muslim communityhas broadened over the years as a result of theiraward-winning long-term performance andstrong ratings from U.S. fund rating agencies suchas Morningstar and Lipper.

For more information about the 2009 FailakaAwards, visit www.failaka.com.

About Saturna Capital“Values-Based Global Equity Managers”

Amana IncomeNamed BestGlobal EquityFund At IslamicFund Awards

Saturna Capital Corporation, established in 1989in Bellingham, WA, is the investment adviserand administrator to $2.9 billion in assets in theAmana Mutual Funds Trust (which includesAmana Growth Fund, Amana Income Fund andAmana Developing World Fund) and the SaturnaInvestment Trust. Saturna Investment Trustconsists of six funds: Sextant Growth (domesticequities), Sextant International, (foreign stocks),Sextant Core (bonds and equities), Sextant BondIncome (long-term bonds), Sextant Short-TermBond, and the Idaho Tax-Exempt Fund.

Saturna Capital also manages private accountsfor families, businesses and endowments.Saturna Brokerage Services provides general dis-count brokerage services and underwrites theSaturna mutual funds. Saturna Trust Company,headquartered in Reno, NV, provides trust ser-vices to families, charities, trusts, estates andretirement plans, specializing in the administra-tion of Islamic trust services.

Kerry Flanagan, Kanter & Company, Tel. 703/534-6188; Jane Carten, Saturna Capital Corp.Tel. 360/594-9900

Forty Hadith No: 29

www.fortyhadith.iiu.edu.my

From Mu'adh bin Jabal, radiyallahu 'anhu, who said: I said: "O Messenger of Allah, tell me of a deed which will take me into Paradise and willkeep me away from the Hell-fire." He said: "You have asked me about a great matter,yet it is, indeed, an easy matter for him to whom Allah Almighty makes it easy. (It is )that you worship Allah without associating anything with Him, that you perform theprayers, that you pay the zakat, that you fast during Ramadan, and that you make thepilgrimage to the House." Then he said: "Shall I not guide you to the gates of goodness? Fasting is a shield;charity extinguishes sin as water extinguishes fire; and a man's prayer in the middleof the night." Then he recited: "Who forsake their beds to cry unto their Lord in fearand hope, and spend of that We have bestowed on them. No soul knoweth what iskept hid for them of joy, as a reward for what they used to do". [Qu'ran, Surah al-Sajdah (32): Ayah 16-17] Then he said: "Shall I not also tell you of the peak of the matter, its pillar, and itstopmost part?" I said: "Yes, O Messenger of Allah." He said: "The peak of the matter isIslam (submission to Allah), the pillar is prayer; and its topmost part is jihad." Thenhe said: "And shall I not tell you of the controlling of all that ?" I said:" Yes, OMessenger of Allah". So he took hold of his tongue and said: "Restrain this." I said: "OProphet of Allah, will we be held accountable for what we say?" He said: "May yourmother be bereft of you! Is there anything that topples people on their faces (or hesaid, on their noses) into the Hell-fire other than the jests of their tongues?"[Related by Al-Tirmidhi, who said it was a fine and sound hadith]

may 4th 2010 issue

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