The Lone Star Crescent

Board of Education decides against ‘pro-Islam’ books

BY KENA SOSA History has shown that sticks and stones do break bones. Words should never hurt or mislead, yet they do. The way history, meant to be the timeline of facts and events which cannot be disputed, is written can lead to great controversy.

“

The proposal was first birthed by Randy Rives of Odessa, whose conservative agenda seems to be shared

by Board members.

In a way, the Board is right. There should be no bias in history textbooks. Bias should always be absent.

Such is the case with the recent heated decision made by the Texas School Board to not adopt textbooks which they deem to contain material which is “proIslam” or “anti-Christian.”

The proposal was first birthed by Randy Rives of Odessa, whose conservative agenda seems to be shared by Board

members. In a way, the Board is right.

There should be no bias in history textbooks. Bias should always be absent.

those of Muslim faith are brushed over while the unpleasant acts of Christians were painted in a much harsher light.

The subject of Christianity and Islam is already a touchy subject for many. And, the proposal could not have passed if there were not people who agree with the Board’s decision.

This is a sticky subject, as we all know that a clever writer can disguise his opinions in astute language, while another will find it more difficult to avoid words that have negative connotations. Consider, for example, the effects a clergyman who retold the legend of Beowulf had on the story.

However, a wide range of spiritual leaders and other community members do not. Before debating this topic, the Board was sent a letter from the spiritual leaders of various faiths asking them not to pass the issue as the concept itself is one that is biased.

The Texas Freedom Network (www.tfn. org), in charge of sending out this letter, cites many discrepancies in the findings which pushed this agenda to vote and ultimately, to pass.

According to a list of facts on the topic, TFN, cites that in response to the claim that Islam was much more discussed in the textbooks in question, “the review appears to ignore whole sections of textbooks that discuss Christianity” such as text on the Byzantine Empire, Holy Roman Empire, and Christianity’s influence on art and culture.

more inside ` Attorney Noaman Azhar on I-751 and removing the conditions of permanent residency ............................................................... ` Ft. Worth pastor to speak at MPAC 10th Annual Convention ............................................................... ` Community Briefings ............................................................... ` Arab Comedy tour swings through Dallas ................................................................ ` Robert Canright discusses the secret to success in the suburbs ................................................................ ` Plan a trip deep in the heart of Texas - you never know what you will find. ................................................................

Regardless, it seems strange that publishers and editors of history books would not be checking for language which might provoke emotional and/or biased reactions to any event. This should be their job and their mission, to present the facts as they are.

Interestingly, the final accusation of the agenda is that Arab investors will try to use their influence in order to continue bias in history textbooks as their power in the world economy grows.

This statement can neither be proven nor fairly assumed. Considering Texas is in located in the Bible Belt of the country and that Texas’ power in the book market is sizeable, one could summon up the same fear about Christian politicians.

` Meet The Lone Star Crescent new columnist -- Dr. Lamia Kadir, a pediatrician from the Austin area. She is here to answer all of your pertinent health and medical-realated questions. This issue she tackles H1N1 and the flu season.

It also states that atrocities committed by TEXT BOOKS continues on page 4 >>

Serving of ‘Three Cups’ proves fruitful for CAI

BY KENA SOSA The main goal of the first Fundraising Gala held in Dallas Saturday, November 13th was to secure enough funds for CAI’s 168th school to be built. Additionally, CAI and the volunteers hoped to bridge cultural gaps and bring Easterners and Westerners together in their desire to help humankind through education, but also to take relationships from acquaintances to true friends and partners in philanthropy. Central Asia Institute and Greg Mortenson do not take their mission lightly.

Their hard work paid off as each facet of the evening successfully bonded new friendships and understanding between those who were previously strang-

ers. Even before entering the ballroom, guests were invited to mingle. Farah Janjua’s photography bordered the entryway creating a human corral of sorts as gazers perused the colorful images of veils, eyes and eager children, eyes burning to learn, gushing at the emotions conveyed in the gestures of the children as if they were right there with us.

Speakers opened by enlightening attendees with a reality check for many who have not been updated on Pakistan’s post-flood situation today. Sadly, one fifth of Pakistan is still underwater thanks to recent flooding, yet the disaster is hardly mentioned. Why are we neglecting a country so in need? It’s simple. Many of us hear the name Pakistan CAI continues on page 4 >>

02

IMMIGRATION

I-751: Removing the conditions of permanent residency

BY NOAMAN AZHAR ATTORNEY AT LAW

mative application on form I-751 to demonstrate that the marriage is still valid.

When two people get married and one applies for a green card based on that marriage, the key determination United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) makes is whether the parties intended to establish a life together at the time of their marriage.

This can be a relatively straightforward process if the couple is still married and living together. If the couple is separated or divorced, this can be a much more difficult process as the green card holder will have to request a waiver of filing jointly.

If the couple can prove they intended to establish a life together at the time of their marriage, they can typically overcome any immigration hurdle or accusation of a sham marriage.

The basis for waivers on form I-751 in these types of cases are typically on the grounds that the marriage was entered in good faith but ended in divorce or annulment (box ‘d’ in ‘Part 2’), or the applicant was the victim of extreme battery or cruelty by their spouse (box ‘e’ in ‘Part 2’).

After an individual is approved for permanent residency based on marriage, however, they are only issued a conditional green card (assuming the couple files within 2 years of marriage).

When requesting a waiver of filing jointly, the applicant should be prepared to present a considerable amount of evidence to demonstrate that the marriage was entered in good faith.

A conditional green card provides the same rights that a full green card provides (employment, travel, etc…), but the conditional green card holder must apply to have the conditions removed within 90 days of the two year anniversary of having received the conditional green card.

During that window of time, the conditional green card holder must file an affir-

This can be done by showing that the couple co-habitated together (lease agreements) co-mingled funds (bank and credit card statements), filed joint tax returns, has joint utility bills, took out life insurance policies for one another, and have photographs together from vacations or other activities.

IMMIGRATION continues on page 3 >>

03

IMMIGRATION

PUBLISHER Melanz, LLC. P.O. Box 851764 Richardson, TX 75085

Editorial / Writing / Events / Feedback marium@myCrescent.com CONTRIBUTORS

EDITOR Marium F. Mohiuddin| T: (512) 6577819 marium@myCrescent.com LAYOUT & GRAPHICS Marium F. Mohiuddin

IMMIGRATION continued from page 2 >>

The clearest proof of a good faith marriage, however, is sharing a child together. If a couple has a child together, but later gets divorced, it is extraordinarily unlikely that USCIS will determine the marriage was not entered into in good faith. Having a child together will almost certainly erase all doubt of the legitimacy of a marriage.

Divorce is never easy on the wife, husband, their families, and especially any children who may be involved. It can be even more problematic for an individual who gained an immigration benefit based on marriage.

As a result, it is critically important to

know the immigration implications of filing for divorce if you or your spouse has benefited from immigration laws designed to unite and sustain families.

Noaman is an attorney and Managing Partner at Azhar & Azhar, PLLC. This article is not intended to establish an attorney-client relationship. As always, readers should consult with an experienced immigration attorney before making any immigration decisions on their case.

Noaman Azhar is an attorney and Managing Partner at Azhar & Azhar, PLLC. This article is not intended to establish an attorneyclient relationship. As always, readers should consult with an experienced immigration attorney before making any immigration decisions on their case.

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04

HEALTH

Q& The 4-1-1 on H1N1 A & the flu season Dear Dr. Sis Column

My name is Dr, Lamia Kadir, and I am a family physician practicing in Austin, Texas. If you have a medically related question or concern, forward it to us, it may be the next subject spotlighted in the Lone Star Crescent.

H1N1 (formerly known as the Swine flu) is a relatively new influenza virus, not previously recognized in humans. Initially named because genes in the virus are similar to flu viruses normally found in pigs, it is actually a re-assortment of swine, human and avian (bird) strains of influenza.

In early 2009, it was first detected in Mexico with subsequent cases spreading to other countries (including the U.S.) via air travel. In June 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared H1N1 a pandemic, indicating widespread community transmission over at least two continents.

The United States Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that between April 2009-April 2010, there were about 61 million cases of H1N1 including 274,000 hospitalizations and over 12,000 deaths.

‘Tis the Season to Boost Your Immunity 1. Maintain a healthy diet that includes fresh vegetables and fruit

3. Get enough sleep. Sleep at least 6-8 hours a day

2. Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day

4. Maintain a moderate exercise routine

Influenza is transmitted via large respiratory droplets e.g. coughing and sneezing. The rate of infection in the U.S. is highest in people under 24. However, those at highest risk include: Pregnant Women, Adults under 60, Children, and those with Chronic Diseases such as Diabetes, kidney and lung problems.

Signs and symptoms of H1N1 influenza are similar to the seasonal flu. The most common symptoms include: fever (100.4 or higher), cough, sore throat, malaise, and headaches. The most common reasons to be hospitalized with Influenza are pneumonia and dehydration.

Most patients who present with mild flu-like symptoms do NOT need to be tested. Those that should be tested are: Hospitalized patients in whom Influenza is suspected and in whom the diagnosis will affect care, infection control and close contacts.

The test is done by inserting a swab into the nose, and absolute confirmation can only be obtained from an outside lab. Treatment is limited to those who present within 2 days of onset of symptoms and include anti-viral therapy such as Tamiflu.

Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet (S) said, “There is no disease that Allah has created, except that He also has created its treatment.”

Vaccination is the best protection we have against the flu.

Of course, you should consult with your physician before doing so to assess your personal benefits and risks.

Staying healthy by covering your nose/mouth when you cough/sneeze, washing your hands often with soap and water, and finding healthy ways to cope with stress are good ways to protect you and your family from illness.

There are also many ways to boost your immunity such as: 1. Maintaining a healthy diet that includes fresh vegetables and fruit 2. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day

TEXT BOOKS continued from page 1 >>

censorship is not easy to achieve.

The United States boasts both freedom of religion and separation of church and state.

Whether or not they feel their right to information and their beliefs has been affected, families can still turn to other sources for information such as their local libraries, the Internet, and cultural literature.

The stress felt between two major religions intruding upon the education of all of our children should be an indicator that we, as a whole, are not adhering to the country’s founding creeds.

We must be reassured that as long as we have the freedom to do as we please in our homes and have access to information on the World Wide Web, true

The only way to get a fully-objective idea of history and the present is by taking in a plethora of sources.

This is what we are taught when we research in school.

The same technique might be used to ensure objective and balanced opinions on both sides of the fence, promoting peace and tolerance for all.

3. Sleeping at least 6-8 hours a day 4. Maintaining moderate exercise “No fatigue, nor disease, nor sorrow, nor sadness, nor hurt, nor distress befalls a Muslim, even it were the prick he receives from a thorn, but that Allah expiates some of his sins for that” (Bukhari Volume 7, Book 70, 545).

Dr. Lamia Kadir was born in London and raised in California. She is a graduate of the University of California at Berkeley and the University of California, Davis Family Medicine Residency Program. Dr. Kadir is board certified in family medicine, and she has particular interests in chronic disease (diabetes, hypertension, etc.), women’s health and basic dermatology. She lives with her husband and two children in Austin, Texas, and practices medicine at Victory Medical Center.

CAI continued from page 1 >>

stan and even if our hearts go out to them, our wallets stay closed. We still wonder if our money will go to those in dire straits or to terrorists. This fear is a great disservice. The CAI demonstrates that any monies they receive end with pencils in children’s hands and new knowledge in their heads.

Between speakers I discussed the philosophy of the event with a volunteer. Her passion and belief in Mortenson’s mission were unmistakable as she stated that “throwing money at people” does not fix the problem. Instead Mortenson and the CAI “empower those they serve” as they promote pride in the new schools CAI continues on page 7 >>

06

COMMUNITY REPORT

Briefs . . .

ISNA ANNOUNCES CALL FOR PAPERS FOR 12TH ANNUAL EDUCATION FORUM ISNA is seeking educators, researchers and professionals to present to educators and Islamic school professionals at the 12th Annual ISNA Education Forum.The forum,“Understanding, Living, and Sharing Islam,” will be April 22-24 in Rosemont, Illinois. ISNA is accepting proposals for presentations through Dec. 6, 2010 (You have a few days left).

All proposals must be grounded in practice, experience and supported by research.

“The Education Forum has enjoyed great feedback from past attendees and is one of the programs we look forward to developing the most each year. It is a joy to work with today’s leading Islamic educators, scholars, and professionals as we all take part in developing our future leaders in their classrooms,” said ISNA Director of Programs Mukhtar Ahmad.

Proposals must be submitted electronically using the Proposal Submission Form.

Serious consideration will be given to proposals that:

• Address the topics listed for this forum

• Propose interesting and practical solutions

• Provide solutions with hands-on application

• Provide material that can be utilized

• Benefit wide range of audience operating in schools that are at various

stages of growth/development

FT. WORTH PASTOR TO ATTEND MPAC’S 10TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN LOS ANGELES The Muslim Public Affairs Council is holding its 10th annual convention on Saturday, Dec. 18, with theme “The Struggle for America’s Conscience.”

The one-of-a-kind gathering will bring together some of the best minds and powerful voices for two thought-provoking conversations: “The State of Our Union: Race, Religion & American Identity” and “The State of Our Umma: Facing Our Challenges.”

The Muslim American community is living through a history-defining moment -- religious freedom and equality and Islamophobia are taking a hold of our country, and we need to address all of these issues so that we can inform our fellow citizens the truth about Islam and Muslims.

The list of confirmed speakers include:

• Imam Suhaib Webb is law professor at Al-Azhar University. He is

an active member of the Muslim American Society and instructor for

Al-Maghrib Institute.

• Pastor Bob Roberts is a founding pastor of NorthWood Church,

an evangelical church in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area.

• Dr. Maher Hathout is the senior adviser and founder of the Muslim

Public Affairs Council.

• Angela Oh is the executive director of the Western Justice Center

in Pasadena, Calif. She was appointed by President Bill Clinton to the

President’s Initiative on Race

• Rashad Hussain was appointed by President Barack Obama to

his Special Envoy to the Organization of the Islamic Conference. He

served as Deputy Associate Counsel to President, worked with the

National Security Staff in pursuing the New Beginning that President

Barack Obama outlined in his June 2009 address in Cairo, Egypt.

• Dr Abdulaziz Sachedina is a Frances Myers Ball Professor of

Religious Studies at the University of Virginia The program will be followed by a banquet with keynote speaker Dr.Ahmed Zewail.

REGISTRATION CLOSED FOR MYNA’S TEXAS NATIONAL CAMP The Muslim Youth of North America is holding its National Retreat this Dec. 19 - 25 BRIEFS continues on page 7>>

07

COMMUNITY REPORT

Briefs continued . . .

BRIEFS continued rom Page 6>>

in Hunt at Mo-Ranch, a ranch about two and a half hours east of Austin.

tions for counselors. To learn more about the Ohio camp or how you can become a counselor, please visit www.isna.net.

The Lone Star Crescent interviews the AMCC Founder. See article on page13

IANT ELECTIONS ARE AROUND THE CORNER

Conference (AMCC) was held at the Hyatt Regency, New Brunswick, NJ on Oct. 30.

Youth ages 12-18 from around the United States will enjoy an intensive leadership and spiritual development training in which they will learn skills and motivation that will enable them to go back to their communities and make a difference.

The Islamic Association of North Texas’ elections are coming. Though the time for nominations have passed, you can still get to know the candidates at a Q&A on Sunday, Dec. 5 and 12. Election ballots must be cast by Sunday, Dec. 19, with the counting of ballots and results to be posted by Zuhr that same day

With close to 400 participants and 24 speakers, the AMCC provided its participants with an entire day of sessions, networking opportunities and a base for understanding how to engage the Muslim American consumer.

Though, this retreat has reached capacity, MYNA is encouraging youth to apply to the regional winter camp in Bellefontaine, Ohio, from Dec. 26 – Jan. 1.

AMERICAN MUSLIM CONSUMER CONFERENCE LANDS IN NEW JERSEY

The youth camp is also accepting applica-

The second American Muslim Consumer

The deadline for registration was Nov. 21, and slots quickly filled up as organizers were only accepting 100 youth.

MilesYoung, CEO of Ogilvy & Mather Worldwide was the keynote speaker highlighted the importance of Muslims in his speech – “Globally Muslims are a 1-plus trillion market.

We cannot ignore it. The values of Muslims need to be embraced by brands: transparency, sincerity of intent, humility, modesty, etc.”

He also highlighted areas where there is a significant gaps in Islamic branding – “For Muslims to be recognized they need to be strong in art and design. It does well to diffuse fear because art connects at an emotional level.

“Muslims today aren’t known for art of design. Brands are an emotional thing owned by the customer. Products are owned by the companies that sell the emotion.

“Muslims need to understand that halal is a brand ingredient, not a brand itself.We need to find a narrative and define the emotion, imagery and design that go with it.”

The conference provided a wide platform for attendees from companies such as Ogilvy & Mather, BestBuy, PepsiCo, Saffron Road, Edible Arrangements, Western Union and several others, specifically in the Muslim space, such as IFANCA, Guidance, Dinar Standard,American Halal Association, Muxlim and many more.

CAI continued from Page 4>>

Geena Davis, who spoke at the CIA event, greated antendees such as Shaheen Salam.

built with local skills, labor and love. Local villagers also run the schools, a lesson Mortenson learned from his father’s work in Tanzania. Thus, these schools, despite educating girls, are left intact after raids as they are protected by the villagers.

Mouth-watering Pakistani cuisine was served to all including rice, chicken, beef and spinach dishes, with a sweet rice pudding for dessert. The only thing missing was the chai! Coffee was served instead.

Introduced by Danny Pudi of the TV show Community, Michael Rady of the movie The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, and author Bapsi Sidhwa, the first female Pakistani writer to pen works in English, who discussed how she first became a writer. She was impelled to tell the story of the girl who ran from her forced marriage and survived two weeks before being caught. Award-winning actress Geena Davis followed up with the greatest honor, that of introducing Greg.

She delivered her speech as eloquently as should be expected from an Academy-Award winner.

CAI continues on page 9 >>

08

OPINION

The secret to success in the suburbs

BY ROBERT CANRIGHT A good education cannot be taken for granted. It is not enough to buy a home within a school district with a good reputation. You must study the test scores before you buy a home. School district SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) averages are not a good indicator of quality education for several reasons.

Some parents will home-school their children or place them in private schools for elementary and middle school, and then place them into the public high schools for AP (Advanced Placement) courses or for the IB (International Baccalaureate) program. This means that high school SAT scores are influenced by private schooling.

A friend of mine in Garland used the combination of a private school and the IB program for his children and his daughter

is now at Cornell University. A school district can also steer lower performing children into the ACT test instead of the SAT test and thereby boost the SAT scores.

The TAKS test is taken by all the children of Texas and is therefore a better way to evaluate a school district, but even this measure is not the best indication of a quality education.

Only close scrutiny by parents can reveal the true quality of education within a school district.

What many concerned parents have discovered is a lack interest by school administrations in teaching academic skills. The schools want to teach critical thinking instead of skills. I have heard one administrator at the Plano ISD use the expressions “drill and kill” and “sage on the stage” to disparage tried and true methods of instruction. I have heard one Plano teacher speak with great excitement about the discovery method she uses in her classroom.

The discovery method is where teachers assign problems to students without first instructing them how to solve that type of problem. This technique is also called problem based learning.

The discovery method is a proven failure. A book by E.D. Hirsch, Jr., The Schools We Need and Why We Don’t Have Them, explains with great thoroughness how school administrators all across America have sacrificed our children’s education for the sake of failed ideologies.

When conscientious parents discover that skills are not being taught to their satisfaction, then many pull their children from public elementary schools and turn to home schooling or private schools. Many parents in Plano, however, turn to private tutors to provide their children with the skills they need for a

good education.

Go to Craigslist for Dallas and search on “math tutor Plano” and you will find over forty math tutors listed. Google “math tutor Plano” and you will find pages of hits. My neighborhood coffee shop seems to always have a math or SAT tutor working with a student. Mathematics is one of the ultimate skill based courses and math tutoring provides a clear advantage over students not receiving math tutoring.

The administration at the Plano ISD clings to their failed ideology of discovery learning even when they are faced with clear evidence that their ideology is a failure. Here is an example: at the Plano ISD Board of Trustees meeting on November 2, 2010, the board received an update on the Math Rocks program. The presenter said the children in this program are significantly ahead of their peers and most of these children receive math instruction outside the Plano schools. These are children who get either private tutoring or classroom tutoring outside of the Plano schools, being tutored with the traditional approach of classroom instruction and homework for drilling the instruction.

The PISD administration can see that traditional instruction and drill puts children significantly ahead of their peers who are taught with the discovery method or with Connected Math. But instead of abandoning failed methods, the PISD creates the Math Rocks program that provides yet more discovery method for these advanced students who have raced ahead with traditional instruction.

The Math Rocks program is discovery learning with more challenging problems. The administrators at the Plano ISD SUCCESS continues on page 11 >>

09

FEATURES

ISNA conference returns to Dallas

2,000 attendees gather for day-long program full of sessions, speakers

BY AZIM ANSARI & HAZRAT AMIN

The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) resumed its regional conference in Dallas with a one day program on November 6, 2010. The event was also significant since Dallas resident Azhar Azeez is now elected as the Vice President of ISNA. The conference brought together scholars and leaders such as Muzammil Siddiqui, Dr. Jamal Badawi, Altaf Husain, Yusuf Ziya Kavakci, Mokhtar Maghraoui, Nouman Ali Khan, and Abdul Nasir Jangda The presence of renown speaker s was one of the main reasons for the attendance of around 2,000. “I was drawn here by the speeches of Nouman Ali Khan,” Rimmel Shekha told The Lone Star Crescent. “I want to enhance my knowledge of Islam,” she added. First time attendee Arshad Aslam agrees and said that he came “because of the impressive speaker lineup.”

Although the location was centrally located in the city, the venue did feel small and crowded. “There needs to be more space,” said Obaida Hitto of Muslim Legal Fund. “Areas are too cramped,” he added. Representative from Masjid AlIslam in downtown Dallas, said they “love the atmosphere, but the area is a bit small.” Basharat Saleem, who heads ISNA’s conference and conventions division pointed out that the conference returned to Dallas after a break, so it was necessary to keep the arrangements conservative. With tremendous interest shown from the community and vendors, this event can grow each year gradually.

But the overcrowding did not seem to bother most vendors

CAI continued from Page 7>>

Mortenson was greeted with a standing ovation before his presentation even began, as thanks for all those children he has already helped.

Mortenson is champion not only to children abroad though but believes in children everywhere and that even the most desolate here can help others through programs like Pennies for Peace, raising funds for schools by students all over the country.

Greg Mortenson made other bold statements such as that all children should become bilingual. In a mostly monolingual nation, many are insecure about this issue, even fighting against bilingual and dual language programs in our schools, despite data proving that bilingualism is very beneficial to students.

Fanna-fi-Allah took the stage with Greg for a short while then took the stage with a musical celebration of their own with enchant-

who enjoyed meeting several prospective customers under one roof. “Exposure has been great,” said Mohamed Yahiaoui of Morgan Stanley / Smith Barney. “I am very pleased.”

Some organizations such as Muslim Legal Fund (MLFA), were looking to re-connect to its supporters. Hitto believes that “attendance really consists of people already active and concerned with community matters.” MLFA is “not looking for exposure, but for more of a presence.”

Masjid Al-Islam representatives, “wanted to inform DFW community about their masjid”. They were happy with the attendance and emphasized on reminding people that “volunteers are a crucial element” for various projects within masajid.

Some people favored expanding the conference to more than a day and add extra programs. “There needs to be a sister’s only session with a female speaker so that there can be more connection for the sisters,” suggested a vendor. “Also there needs to be programs for revert sisters.”

MLFA’s Hitto said that the “event needs to be more than two days, so the attendees can really immerse themselves in an extensive program.” He asked ISNA to coordinate more next year “with other organizations such as CAIR and MAS among others so there is a more diverse dynamic conference.”

Overall the attendees were grateful that ISNA conference is back in town. For Aslam it was a great learning experience.

“Seeking knowledge is a lifelong journey. Always strive to learn and practice humility.” Shekha said that she “learned a lot.” She hopes to take these lessons and apply to her life.

ing verses and soulful rhythms and tones.

With first female member, Ameena Jessica Chisty, the group not only represented tradition and change at once, with their Sufi Qawwali sounds from this atypical group, even inspiring some to their feet to dance and many others to clap along.

As the night wrapped up, I asked actor and speaker Michael Rady how he felt the night had gone, surrounded by the good people of Dallas.

He was “blown away,” “speechless,” and proud to be a part of it. Organizer Ayesha Shafi must have felt the same way as she mentioned that Greg might come back through in two more years.

As for me, well, I hope Dallas didn’t disappoint and that the 168th school will be built thanks to attendees and will look forward with an open heart and even more widely open eyes to Greg Mortenson’s next visit.

More than 2,000 attendees gathered in Dallas for the ISNA Regional Conference. Speakers such as Muzammil Siddiqui, Dr. Jamal Badawi and Imam Mokhtar Maghraoui.

“I want to become more involved in my community, become more socially active and contribute to not only the Muslim population, but to everyone in general.”

10

OPINION

Being positive is the most important thing

BY EKRAM HAQUE What’s the difference between a glass half full and a glass half empty? Nothing, right? Well, actually there is. Saying that the glass is half full shows a positive attitude.

From America’s boardrooms to classrooms, we are hearing again

and again how important it is to be positive. In fact, this motto is resonating around the world. Being positive is associated with success.

life’s big picture. It is to believe that with patience and right attitude, something good can emerge even from the gloomiest of situations.

More than 14 centuries ago, islam made waves when it told the world to thank God even in adversity. Translation: be positive, do not complain about small problems, because it could have been worse; have you thanked enough for what you already have?

When the people of taif rejected prophet muhammad sallallahu alaiyhe wa sallam’s message and their children pelted him with stones, bloodying him, he did not lose hope in the future victory of islam. The prophet (saws) instead hoped that someday allah subhanahu wa ta’ala alone will be worshipped in taif. As we know from history, within a few years idolatry was wiped out not only from taif but also the whole arabian peninsula.

The hadith reports a story of a pious man from the children of israel who had spent his life of 500 years profusely worshipping allah subhanahu wa ta’ala. On the day of reckoning, allah commands him to enter paradise through his mercy. The man, remembering five centuries of worship, asks instead to be admitted based on his good deeds. Allah orders the angels to bring the scale and put the man’s good deeds on one side and his sight on the other.

Seeing his sight tipping the scale the man quickly realizes his mistake and begs allah to let him enter paradise through his mercy.

Being positive means looking at the

first mistake of our brother or sister.

Did the brother do it on purpose, or forget, or was it an accident, are the questions we need to ask before rushing to judgment. We should remember that as a special favor allah has forgiven those mistakes of the ummah of muhammad sallallahu alaiyhe wa sallam that are committed out of forgetfulness.

Allah tells us that while getting even, if wronged, is allowed, forgiving is better and those with a positive and forgiving attitude are fortunate people.

The prophet sallallahu alaiyhe wa sallam is reported to have said: give your brother 70 excuses.

The Qur’an says: “The good deed and the evil deed cannot be equal. Repel (the evil) with one which is better (i.E. Be patient at the time of anger, and excuse those who treat you badly), then verily! He, between whom and you there was enmity, (will become) as though he was a close friend. But none is granted it (the above quality) except those who are patient, and none is granted it except the owner of the great portion (i.e. Paradise in the hereafter and a high moral character in this world).

(Fussilat: 34-35)”

In contrast, many of us jump at the

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Being positive means knowing that if there are people richer than me, there are also those poorer; and that those poorer in material wealth may be richer in knowledge and piety. It means giving others excuses for their lapses, as we have our own. It means forgiving others as we would like ourselves to be forgiven.

11 SUCCESS continued from page 8 >>

are like the Marxists who cling to their failed ideology in spite of clear evidence that their ideology does not work.

The existence of the Math Rocks program is positive proof that the philosophy of instruction at the Plano ISD does not work, but the Plano ISD administration stubbornly refuses to admit failure and correct their mistakes.

There are still more secrets for success in the suburbs. There are schools that provide classroom instruction and homework as an alternative to private tutoring. Two such schools are Ed Gurukul and the Hua Hsing Chinese school. Ed Gurukul (Ed stands for education) focuses on mathematics instruction, K though 12.

They have classes in the evenings, on Saturday and Sunday. Students typically have one hour of instruction, they do homework during the week, and are tested on their progress.

Most of their students receive commended scores on the TAKS test.

Ed Gurukul makes the Math Olympiads part of their program. Ed Gurukul also promotes instruction and competition in chess to aid in mathematical thinking. Ed Gurukul has facilities in Plano and Irving.

The Hua Hsing Chinese school meets in Jasper High School in Plano on Sunday afternoon. Ten years ago my daughter and

OPINION some of her classmates were enrolled in math classes at Hua Hsing. The school met at J.J. Pearce High School in Richardson back then. Hua Hsing has been in operation for 25 years.

I was very relieved that I could find math tutoring for my daughter. I was in shock at what I perceived to be low skill levels for math in the Plano schools. Plano parents are lucky that the Hua Hsing school now meets in Plano.

I spoke with the director at Hua Hsing and learned that parents drive to Plano from Sherman, from Denton, and from Irving for math instruction. There are students from Richardson, Frisco, and Allen, but the majority of their students are from Plano.

Hua Hsing provides math instruction K through 7, algebra, and geometry. They teach math for SAT preparation when there is enough demand. Additionally, Hua Hsing teaches phonics, writing, and SAT preparation for the verbal and writing portions of the test. Hua Hsing students have classroom instruction lasting over one hour.

Students receive homework that gets graded, they have a mid-term and a final exam.

Some of their students are in the Math Rocks program in Plano ISD. Hua Hsing has science classes and, of course, they have classes on the Chinese language. The Hua Hsing Chinese school has a math contest that is open to the public. The contest has 50

problems and is timed.

For the final push towards high SAT scores, many parents send their children to Karen Dillard’s College Prep. When my daughter graduated from Plano Senior High, the class president joked about all the hours they spent at Karen Dillard’s. A significant number of the National Scholarship winners in the Dallas area are graduates of the Karen Dillard program.

Tutoring is the secret to success in the North Dallas suburbs. For years this has all been known only by word of mouth. Now you know the secret. The beauty of life in America is that you have choices. The difficulty of choices in America is that so many choices require money.

Robert Canright is a writer, educator, scientist, mathematician, and engineer.

Canright has taught math in Texas public schools and taught circuit theory to engineering students at a university. He has done Research & Development at a Fortune 50 company, as well as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, software engineering, and systems engineering. He has been a candidate for the Plano ISD Board of Trustees and has written a philosophy book: “Achieve Lasting Happiness.” Canright holds degrees in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and mathematics.

He is a licenced professional engineer in electrical engineering.

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We observe everyday how a positive attitude endears us to the hearts of friends and strangers alike. On the other hand, a sour, grouchy attitude repels people.

A negative person looks at the world and sees mostly evil; because of this attitude the good of this world escapes him. He becomes angry and depressed. When such a person listens to a beautiful speech, he looks for an excuse to criticize it.

A tiny weakness in a long speech is all he needs to express his cynicism. A Muslim is always positive, in good times and bad. He believes that allah is just and whatever happens to him has a purpose. While he fears punishment for his sins, he hopes for the mercy of allah, who has promised forgiveness for sincere repenters.

In the tumult of today, many muslims have become despondent, negative, and part of the problem.

The upheavals of our time are but a reminder to reform ourselves, and that’s a positive thinking.

Ekram Haque is a freelance journalist based in Murphy, TX.

TRAVEL

12

Take a trip deep in the heart of Texas

BY SONIA LAFLAMME It’s easy to overlook the splendor on your own doorstep. With this in mind, my husband Naeem and I decide to explore the Far West Texas region. We are excitedly setting out on our road trip from our Dallas home with our two-year-old son, Zakaria. It’s our first experience of serious traveling with him and so far, he’s loving it, much to our relief! Hopefully, he’ll enjoy the rest of the trip. When planning an itinerary, the Texas Mountain Trail website is a very helpful resource. The Regional Coordinator, Beth Nobles, posts a different photograph of the area on her blog each day, and it inspires you to go there.

Our destination is the picturesque Big Bend area, which is nine hours away so we break the journey and stop for a night in the small town of Marathon. Our stay in the Gage Hotel puts us in the mood for the Old West. The hotel’s General Manager, Wilma Schindeler, knows how to create the right atmosphere and the rustic exterior and period furnishings are welcoming.

The swimming pool is very tempting after hours at the wheel. The accommodation’s White Buffalo Bar is so named because of the rare White Buffalo head that adorns the wall. A tasty menu, including Black Angus Steaks, is on offer at the Café Cenizo, where you can relax in front of one of the fireplaces if the evenings become chilly.

Take the opportunity of browsing round the shops in Marathon, especially the French Co. Grocer. The business opened in 1900 and was the very first General Store in the town. It’s a treasure trove of just about anything you could possibly need, whether it’s provisions for the home or for a trip into the Big Bend National Park. You can stock up with meat, fish, traditional local foods, and wine.

There is hot coffee, tea and sandwiches for sale and picnic supplies plus equipment to repair a bicycle and hiking gear. Lovers

of independent book stores will appreciate the Front Street Books store. It specializes in Texas and the local area with titles that include natural history and the history of ranching.

Home on the Range We resume our journey with 120 miles still to go. On reaching Big Bend, we book in for a couple of nights at La Posada Milagro, located on top of Ghostown Hill in the Terlingua district. This is advertised as rustic luxury accommodation and it lives up to its description. The original traditional architecture has been faithfully restored and it was relaxing to chill out on the sun deck after so much driving. Naeem wishes he could have brought that hammock home!

The Big Bend National Park is all around the lodging and we spend the next couple of days exploring and capturing the scenery with our cameras. It is a big space for one s mall boy to run around in! The Park contains hiking trails, biking trails and camping grounds and there is permission for all year round fishing.

You can take advantage of the amenities at the Chisos Mountains Basin, where there is a restaurant, convenience store and a small visitor center. Several trails go out from the basin, where the wilderness awaits again after a short walk. There is a chance of encountering a mountain lion! Attacks are rare but if one should act aggressively, the advice is to stand your ground, and throw stones or wave your arms but most importantly, don’t run.

The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is said to be the most scenic drive in the entire state and we have to agree. It winds round the Chisos Mountains and finishes at Santa Elena Canyon. On the way, there is a choice of trails, historic sites and dramatic vistas.

One of the best views is from Sotol Vista.

The Castolon Historic District contains buildings from the early 1900s including an army barracks. There is a welcome oasis

in the form of a store that sells ice cream, snacks and cold drinks. Santa Elena Canyon is magnificent, the canyon walls rising to 1,500 feet above the river at one point. If you don’t mind getting wet, take advantage of the canoe and raft trips in operation in the canyon.

One of the best ways of getting close to the landscape in Big Bend is to go on a Jeep Tour, run by the Far Flung Outdoor Center.

For More Information or to Make Reservations Texas Mountain Trail (432) 284-0002 www.texasmountaintrail.com

Brewster County Tourism Council www.visitbigbend.com

The Gage Hotel (800) 884-GAGE www.gagehotel.com

Holiday Inn Express (432) 283-7444 www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/ex/1/en/hotel/ vhntx

La Posada Milagro (432) 371-3044 www.laposadamilagro.com

Red Rock Ranch (800) 735-6911 www.redrockranchtours.com

Far Flung Outdoor Center www.farflungoutdoorcenter.com (800) 839-7238

Guadalupe Mountains National Park www.guadalupe.mountains.national-park.com

The guides are very knowledgeable and there is a choice of daily trips that appeal to different interests.

You may come across an old Apache camp, cacti, ancient fossils, old mining sites, or even the remains of dinosaurs. Another way to explore the area is to go on a river tour, a walking tour or an ATV tour. We highly recommend Big Bend and are grateful to the Visit Big Bend website and Mike Davidson of Brewster County Tourism for arranging it.

Mountains and Lions and Bears – Oh My! It is time to head for the Guadalupe Mountains, an impressive range that boasts the highest mountain in Texas, the Guadalupe Peak (8,749 ft). We register for two nights in Van Horn at the Holiday Inn Express, which is conveniently situated in the heart of the small town. The hotel makes a good base for exploring the area and the rooms are comfortable and clean. It’s only a short drive to do the Red Rock Ranch Tour, a rewarding experience for any visitor.

There are guided hiking and driving tours and they offer more fantastic photo opportunities. The owner of Red Rock Ranch, Darice McVey, operates the tours, collecting tourists from their accommodation, takTEXAS continues on page 14 >>

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FEATURES

A conversation with AMCC founder

BY HAZRAT AMIN If he wasn’t wearing his badge, I would not have recognized Faisal Masood in the lobby of Hyatt, just before the 2nd Annual American Muslim Consumer Conference (AMCC). As a founder of a pioneering Muslim business organization, I had “profiled” him as a corporate leader directing all the work.

However, I saw him working side by side with other organizers and volunteers as the team welcomed the guests early morning.

The conference was a significant step up from last year according to the attendees.

AMCC provides a platform for industry professionals to examine the emerging Muslim market in the United States.

It effectively raises awareness of the Muslim consumer, their buying power so that the market can gain some visibility and presence in mainstream media, the advertising industry and in-turn influence companies in developing products for Muslims. As someone just learning about the conference, I was interested in learning more about its history and future plans. Who better to answer those questions than its founder Faisal Masood.

Q: Was there an “aha moment” that developed AMCC or was it more subtle?

FM: In 2008, articles in the mainstream media talked about American Muslim Consumers such as articles by Carla Power in TIME magazine and Michael HastingsBlack in Advertising Age. The MLINK team decided to advance this agenda as opposed to sitting on the sidelines. The timing could not have been worse with the recession in full swing, but we looked at the glass

as half full and saw the need to talk about consumer spending when the economy is struggling. Upon further research we found that there was a JWT report published in 2007, which talked about the American Muslim market with $170 billion in spending power.

Q: What sort of work happens at AMCC between conferences?

FM: We promote companies who participate in our conference. Last year after the conference, CNN called us and were looking to conduct news coverage on Islamic Finance and Sharia compliant mortgage products. We were able to setup an interview with University Islamic Financial Bank and a customer who was using their products.

There was a 5 minute piece that was aired on their channel. We organized a three-city Islamic finance tour where five companies who are selling sharia compliant products participated. Zayan Takaful, University Islamic, Iman Insurance, Guidance Financial, Soho Properties, and Amana Mutual Fund.

Q: Since its inception, what sort of progress AMCC has made?

FM: Last year we did not have a single mainstream company that participated, this year we have corporations like Pepsico, Best Buy, Western Union, Sam’s Club/ Walmart, Edible Arrangements either presented or participated as delegates. It is also significant to note that this year Ogilvy & Mather, one the largest ad agencies in the world, was the premiere sponsor. Its CEO Miles Young delivered the keynote address.

The conference is also making waves within the Muslim community as the number of attendees to more than double from last year. ? InshaAllah we hope to double the participation of mainstream companies and

Faisal Masood, the founder of the American Muslim Consumer Conference, welcomed guests to the conference. He has been able to provide a platform for industry professionals to examine the emerging Muslim market in the United States.

raise more awareness among the Muslim Community and beyond. We will see what we can do to be in a larger host city, possibly New York City, if that makes logistical sense. Nonetheless, we see this platform growing very fast meeting our three core objectives: 1. Highlight the opportunities that exist in this vibrant consumer market 2. Support and promote entrepreneurs who are creating exciting products and services to meet the growing demands 3. Engage mainstream, marketing and media companies to give American Muslims more visibility Q: What are major challenges from U.S. business industry?

FM: US business industries align more to

diversity and ethnic causes, getting their interest to a segment which is based on religious affinity is challenging.

Q: How’s the support from Muslim organizations and community?

FM: We are receiving great support from Young enterprising Muslims. Unfortunately traditional Muslim organizations are not supporting us fully.

Q: What steps are you taking to grow AMCC beyond NE United States?

FM: We will grow organically. Right now we do not have the bandwidth to do conferences in different cities, Insha’Allah people are realizing the value of this platform both from within this community and outside the community.

The Arabs are going wild — for comedy that is

BY HAZRAT AMIN When comedian Dean Obeidallah graciously invited me to his “Arabs Gone Wild” comedy tour at the House of Blues in Dallas, I immediately re-scheduled my calendar to attend the show.

Obeidallah is definitely a funny guy and I could have watched the show later on sev-

eral YouTube clips, but I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to miss meeting one of the first Muslim comedians in the country.

It is rather challenging to create a market for Arab / Muslim comedy that appeals to all Americans in the current political climate.

I may not admire all his jokes, but admire his courage and endeavor. Obeidallah is among the first wave of Muslim comedians

who are breaking stereotypes and building bridges with humor and laughter.

So who is Dean Obeidallah? Born in New Jersey, his comedy comes in large part from his background of being the son of a Palestinian father and a Sicilian mother.

series “Comics Unleashed with Byron Allen” and was one of five comedians profiled in the recent one hour TV Special entitled: “Stand Up: Muslim-American Comics Come of Age” which aired in the US on PBS and internationally on BBC World and Al Jazeera.

Obeidallah who was at one time a practicing attorney, has appeared on “The Axis of Evil” Comedy TV special which aired in the US on Comedy Central and in the Middle East on Showtime Arabia.

The show also featured Aron Kader, Maysoon Ziyad, Houston’s Omar Elba and local comedian Aaron Aryanpur. Due to unusually heavy traffic on the freeway I missed the first few minutes of the show.

He is the co-creator of Comedy Central. com’s critically acclaimed Internet series “The Watch List” featuring a cast of all Middle Eastern-American comedians performing stand up and sketch comedy.

The auditorium packed with people from all backgrounds was already laughing out loud when I arrived.

Dean has appeared twice on ABC’s “The View,” on the nationally syndicated TV

Show’s MC Aron Kader, did a fantastic job keeping audience amused between perforCOMEDY continues on page 14 >>

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ing them round Van Horn, and telling them about the town’s history.

She then shows you her ranch, which has been used as a movie and TV location on several occasions, including Blue Sky, for which Jessica Lange won her Oscar.

Patricia Golden of the Van Horn Convention Center and Visitors Bureau also accompanied us on the tour. The staff at the center will assist in planning your business trip or vacation.

The fabulous rock formations, canyons and native vegetation are all on show. This area has an interesting past, which inspired Hollywood to build a western movie set here, which you can still see.

You will feel a real sense of history when you see a Native American campsite, hundreds of years old, and find a pictogram that someone has left behind.

Commercial enterprise is alive too at the working talc mine.

The Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a wonderful wilderness with over 80 miles of hiking trails and it has a variety of terrain, including desert, woodland canyons, and mountain forests.

It’s a favorite place for bird watchers, horse-

TRAVEL & FEATURES

back riders, and people interested in fossils.

The Park is home to rattlesnakes, elk, black bears, mule deer and those mountain lions again.

The Mail Must Get Through!

In the days when mail was transported by stagecoach, the Butterfield Overland was an important route, going all the way from Missouri to California.

The stagecoaches passed south of the Guadalupe Peak and today’s tourists can walk up the short path to the ruins of Pinery Station, which was one of the old stops.

The first mail delivery on the route was in 1858 and there are celebrations planned in 2008 to honor this Texan anniversary.

Various events include a Car Rodeo and Motorcycle Rally in Van Horn (September 26-28) and a Chuckwagon Barbeque and Stagecoach Rides through the Guadalupe Mountains National Park (September 2728).

Another worthwhile attraction is the Frijole Ranch House, a restored building that houses a museum dedicated to the history of local ranching. This can be reached via the beautiful Smith Spring trail.

We Journey Home (with one tired little boy)

It is all over so quickly and it’s time to go.

Zakaria has covered many miles in the course of our trip, secure in Naeem’s back carrier, and he sleeps soundly on the way home.

This area is the perfect getaway from the city, and takes you back through history to places with geological wonders, thousands of years old.

The long roads seem to stretch forever. It’s important to remember, in this dry, hot environment, that it is easy to dehydrate.

Always carry water, put on sunscreen, and wear a hat and long sleeves. You can rest up at the end of the day in comfortable accommodation with excellent service and everyone is very friendly.

They say Texas has the biggest sky in the world and you will certainly echo that sentiment.

Sonia Laflamme is a travel writer and television show host for JustSayGoTV. com, a spin-off of the web travel magazine JustSayGo.com. The mother of a young boy, she focuses on family friendly destinations. She welcomes your feedback and questions. You can reach her at sonia@justsaygo.com

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mances. I enjoyed and appreciated his style of educating the audience about one element Arab culture between performances.

While most of the jokes were clean, the “Arabs Gone Wild” comedy tour is not suitable for kids.

Apart from being hilarious, the greatest part of the show was watching the stereotypes disappear.

Obeidallah and his fellow comedians have taken a road to bring together people of all faith and backgrounds together, one show at a time. They achieved that within couple of hours in Dallas while everyone laughed together.