The Muslim Link - June 4, 2010 by The Muslim Link

OVER 7,000 SOAK IN THE SUN AT MUSLIM FUNFEST Jumada Al-Akhir 21 - Rajab 4, 1431 A.H. | www.MuslimLinkPaper.com

PG 8

MD, VA, and DC. Metropolitan Area Bi-Weekly Newspaper | FREE

June 04, 2010 - June 17, 2010

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

ISWA Celebrates Grand Opening | pg 4 Protesting women line up behind the men at Dar Al-Hijrah in deﬁance of the masjid’s policy. Photos courtesy of Ify Okoye.

Breaking the Ranks or Peaceful Protest? Pray-In Group Targeting Local Masajid to End “Gender Segregation”

By Muslim Link Staff In January of this year, Fatima Thompson, a revert to Islam living in the Baltimore metropolitan area, went to pray at the Islamic Center of Washington DC. Arriving late, she missed the main jama’, so she prayed on her own in a section of the prayer area designated for women. The space was

enclosed by a 7-foot high wooden barrier. Soon after she ﬁnished her prayer and left the women’s area, she noticed a second prayer congregation in progress. She was upset. Had she known of this congregation, she would have joined. The barrier she prayed behind made her feel like a “second class believer”.

“That was the crystallizing moment for me,” she recalled. Shortly after this incident, Thompson set-up a Facebook page and founded a small movement now called “Pray In”. The purpose of the group is to “end gender segregation” in the masjid, and Thompson is leading group members in what she calls acts of “civil

disobedience” – praying behind the men at local area masajid, disregarding any specially designated prayer areas for women. Their ﬁrst “Pray In” protest at the Islamic Center of Washington DC took place in late February. About ten women prayed outside

>> PRAYER Pg 9

Gender Partitions in the Local Karate School Rocks NJ Tournament Masjid | ISLAM | pg 7 By Wendy Diaz Muslim Link Contributing Writer

You have to wonder what the other martial artists were thinking when they saw these new faces show up at the 4th Annual Islamic Games this weekend, held in Monmouth Junction, New Jersey.

Just where did Aqabah Karate come from? After all, most of the martial arts participants in the previous years of the Islamic Games were from New Jersey, Philadelphia, and New York and the surrounding areas. Veteran competitors were used to seeing familiar

faces but these seemingly “New Karate Kids on the Block” turned out to be more than they expected. Even though it was a three hour drive away, College Park, Maryland-based Aqabah Karate took students, parents, and instructors to

the Islamic Games, making their 2nd competition debut, a year after their ﬁrst ever martial arts tournament. This year the tournament was in an Islamic environment with only Muslim participants. The

>> AQABAH Pg 5

The Muslim Link

Coupons PG 20

2 | ADVERTISEMENT

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

Together, let ’s keep her smiling. You’ve helped Islamic Relief USA provide food and shelter to earthquake victims in Haiti. Let’s not forget them. (888) 479-4968 www.IslamicReliefUSA.org/MLink

Islamic Relief USA 3655 Wheeler Ave Alexandria, VA 22304 info@IslamicReliefUSA.org Tax ID #95-4453134

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

INDEX |

Mujtaba Yahya, DDS Amer Sheikh, DDS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Your family dentists

Access Dental Care caring for your comfort

Call 301.776.6666 | 9105-0 All Saints Road | Laurel | MD 20723

Community News

Islam

Salaah Times

Marketplace

“My SKIN CONDITION controls my life.” “My HAIR LOSS makes me self-conscious.”

Dr.Mahmoud Mousa

As a scientist with a doctorate in Pharmacology and a masters in Medical Microbiology, I know modern medicines like steroid cremes and other chemical treatments can have adverse side effects and damaging long term effects on our bodies. As a Muslim,

I know what the Qur’an says about honey – that its a cure. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also said there is healing in honey. I’ve made it my life’s mission to bring back the healing power of honey as a real solution to modern diseases like eczema, rosacea, hair loss, dandruff, and scalp psoriasis. Combining the power of honey with other natural cures like black seed, aloe vera, olive oil, bee pollen, and other natural ingredients, our products have also relieved thousands of

customers of wrinkles, acne, and thinning hair. I have recently formulated two new natural, honey-based products: Liver Support and Diabetic Support. Liver Support incorporates honey, milk thistle, black seed, artichoke, garlic, dandelion, cinnamon, licorice, gentian , nutmeg, and ginger to help healthy liver function. Diabetic Support combines black seed, fenugreek, stevia, cinnamon, ginkgo biloba, bitter melon, garlic, dandelion, and ginseng to aid in healthy blood sugar function.

��

� ��

BEFORE

AFTER

Thousands of our customers felt like this before they tried the honey-based remedies made by Honeyderm, Inc. I founded Honeyderm, Inc. as an answer to people suffering from chronic skin and scalp conditions – diseases which impact their quality of life.

��

BEFORE

AFTER

To learn more, read customer testimonials and view customer photos, visit www.HoneyDerm.com. To speak with Dr. Mahmoud Mousa, call 1-800-424-7710.

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

4 | COMMUNITY NEWS

Community News ISWA Grand Opening Celebration of 37 Years The Islamic Society of the Washington Area (ISWA) celebrated the grand opening of their new expanded masjid in Silver Spring, MD on Saturday, May 15, 2010. Invited guests included Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett, Montgomery County Board Member Tim Watson, representatives from the ofﬁces of MD Governor Martin O’Malley and MD Congressman Chris Van Hollen, as well as MD Delegate Saqib Ali. Governor O’Malley issue a proclamation recognizing the day which is now on display in the new center. ISWA was founded 37 years ago. Dr. Fazil Alie, ISWA’s president, thanked everyone – especially the volunteers who spent months building much of the new masjid with their own hands – for their sacriﬁces and commitment to ISWA. Dr. Alie also thanked ISWA’s immediate neighbors for “their patience and support throughout the twenty months of construction.” Three community members were recognized for their outstanding contributions: Hafeez Hassan, Hemal Mustafa, and Firoze Deen.

ADVERTISERS INDEX CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES Islamic Garb Gallery 21 Khan el Khalili Warehouse 26 Rahma’s Shop 21

Strength Camp 17 Summer Amidst the Angels 19 Sunsational Summer Program 12 Middle East Books 13

DINING OUT Mandarin Restaurant 25 Pizza N Pizza 25 Pizza Roma 27

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES Farmers Market & Bazaar 21 ICNA-VA Fundraiser 10 47th ISNA Annual Convention 15 Mohammad Tae Kwon Do 21

EDUCATION An Nur Academy 13 Living Islam in America 11 Learn Arabic 6 MCC Camp Qiyam 16 Quran Institute 12

GROCERIES Germantown Halal House 21 HEALTH CARE Access Dental 3

To Advertise Call 301.982.1020 Dr. Afolabi Hakeem Martins DDS 23 East Gate Orthodontics 7 Grove Dental Clinic 28 Honeyderm Inc 3 Little River Chiropractic Clinic 23 Professional Hair Designers 27 Willoughby Beach Pediatrics 23 LEGAL SERVICES Law Ofﬁce of Khalid Mahmood 7 Melvin Bilal 21 Wani & Associates 3 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES BizSell Inc 21 Cresent Report 16

Sanjar Media 24 RELIEF & AID Islamic Relief 2 IMA Foundation 6

TAX & FINANCE Ahmed Eid, CPA 2 Haroon & Associates 23 Ideal Tax & Accounting 24 TRAVEL Hajj & Umrah 11 Rendezvous Travel 24

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

COMMUNITY NEWS |

Workshop Focuses on Families in Crisis By Nadirah Rasheed

Muslim Link Contributing Writer The family, which is the basic unit of civilization, is now in crisis. This message was increasingly clear as the day progressed at the Muslim Families in Crisis Workshop, held at the Islamic Research and Humanitarian Services Center of America (IRHSCA) in Capitol Heights, Md. on Saturday, May 22. Organizers Talib Abdul Samad, executive director and deputy Imam of IRHSCA, and Dr. Hakim Rashid, an associate professor of human development at Howard University, assessed the crisis and determined that there are some very serious issues facing the Muslim family. With approximately 50 people in attendance, the discussion was geared toward the center’s predominantly African-American community. However, it became apparent throughout the discussion that the social problems facing Muslim families cross all racial and ethnic backgrounds, the speakers said. AQABAH >> continued from pg 1 anxiety and anticipation, however, was the same for all. Aisha Ali, who competed in the young women’s division, said, “We had good competition and I thought it was a good experience. Seeing all of my friends competing helped me to feel conﬁdent. It was a lot of fun.” Maryam Muhib, 7 years old, set the standard early on the girls side by sweeping the forms division with a gold medal. Her loud and crisp forms demonstration ended with a roaring applause from the audience. The message was clear that, “Aqabah Girls are in the House”. Twenty two Aqabah Karate competitors helped themselves to 31 medals in forms, sparring, self-defense as well as in other events like track and ﬁeld. Of the medals, 11 were gold, 13 silver and 7 were bronze, MashAllah. Men and boys were situated in one gymnasium on the campus of a local middle school, while the women and girls competed in the auxiliary gym. The Islamic Games organizers tried their best to keep the event gender segregated,

The speakers discussed domestic violence, marriage and parenting, substance dependency (alcohol and drugs) and health and wellness. Quoting a verse from the Quran, Abdul Samad told the audience that Muslim families should “follow the instructions of Allah (swt) to save yourselves and your families from the ﬁre.” Tasnim Abdul Muqit, 65, of Washington, D.C. said the event was relevant to her. “I have to deal with some of these same crises within my own family”, she said. Each topic was presented by experienced scholars and speakers. Sheikh Abdul Rahman Yaki, the Imam of IRHSCA who educates and counsels parents and couples, spoke about parents as role models. Parents must set the example for their children, and they must know their mother and father are equal but with different responsibilities, he said. “Because 50 percent of the young couples who get married today will end in divorce, this workshop is about making it easier and more comfortable for all participants. The Aqabah Karate women especially, were able to showcase their talents like never before, making this event an unforgettable experience. Umm Omar, mother of 3 Aqabah Karate students, said, “I think people perceive Muslim women and girls as so restricted, and these kind of events show what we can do. This is what our girls do while still upholding our Islamic values. I was really impressed.” Kamilah Abdul-Wakil from Aqabah Karate’s women’s class won 1st place in sparring and 3rd place in forms. “The tournament was really nice. I enjoyed it a lot. I think it was better for everyone (that it was segregated). Had it not been, I would not have competed,” she said. Abdul Aziz, Kamilah’s father, commented, “I loved watching the boys and men compete. I had so much fun. From now, Insha-Allah, I am going to attend all tournaments where Aqabah is competing.” The boys and men also enjoyed success on the other side of the campus. Arbaz Khatib, 14 years old, punched and kicked his way through serious challenges to win the gold in sparring. Zakaria Korme, 12

Attendees at the Families In Crisis event in Capitol Heights. Photo by the author.

protecting our families today and tomorrow,” Yaki said. Citing statistics like these, single Muslims are concerned about the pursuit of marriage. “I came to the workshop because the topic is interesting and relevant,” said Aisha Abdullah, 27, of Falls Church, Va. “But I learned that the problems are more

frequent than we like to admit, and more frequent than I thought they were”. Zakiyyah Haddad, a family counselor and domestic violence expert, spoke of her personal experience with domestic violence as a child and as an adult. She strongly advocates intervention and counseling for both spouses. >> IRHSCA Pg 13

Talha Muhib, shown here demonstrating a Tang Soo Do form, took a silver medal and a bronze medal at the Islamic Games. Photo courtesy of Aqabah Karate. years old, defeated almost 20 competitors to win gold in forms. The instructors also competed and brought home 3 silvers and a bronze. “Everyone did outstanding. Especially my sisters in Aqabah Karate, I am so proud of them. For a lot of them it was their ﬁrst competition and the only kind in the area that is closed to men, plus exclusively for Muslims. The sisters did not want to let go of this opportunity and so they gladly took the three hour trip from Maryland to Jersey with their families. They showed so much courage, MashAllah.” says Br

Muhib, director of Aqabah Karate. Spectators congratulated the Marylanders on their success and were in awe at their skills and abilities. One community member from New Jersey asked how they could establish an Aqabah Karate in their masjid. Aqabah Karate students were able to interact with students from other schools and compare knowledge and know-how. Since the tournament was open, there were different styles and arts

>> AQABAH Pg 7

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

6 | COMMUNITY NEWS

Al-Rahmah School Surpasses Fundraising Goal By Farha Marfani

school’s history. The total amount raised was $69,000, surpassing the organizers’ original goal of $60,000.

Muslim Link Contributing Writer Even with a lower turnout than expected, Al-Rahmah School was able to exceed its fundraising target of $60,000 at its fourth annual fundraising dinner, held on Saturday, May 22. Saﬁ Khan, founder and Imam of Dar-us-Salaam and Al-Huda School, returned this year as the keynote speaker for the evening. Altaf Husain, former president of MSA National, was the fundraiser. The evening also featured student presentations. The fundraiser focused on the role of the community in its school. “This is a school with a mission,” Khan said. “There has to be a sense of mission, but that sense of mission cannot be inculcated in the children unless we ourselves, as adults, feel that mission.” In his speech, he also outlined qualities that make Islamic education different and that will make children ready for leadership. These included realizing the importance and greatness of Allah,

The bulk of the school’s revenue comes from tuition, which, according to AbdurRahman, is the lowest in the country for private schools, and ISB provides funds for ﬁnancial aid. “The fundraiser funds are used to close the gap in the budget from the tuition collection,” he said. “The funds go toward school operations, teacher development, and staff salaries.” Al-Rahmah School students give a presentation to supporters at the annual fundraiser for the recently accredited K-9 school. Photo by the author. being proud of an Islamic identity and developing courage to practice Islam openly, as well as supporting and caring for one another.

concept in his opening remarks.

“This (the school) is the most important project of your community,” Khan said. Riaz Ahmad, Islamic Society of Baltimore secretary of education, reiterated this

The turnout did not reﬂect the fact that Al-Rahmah school is ISB’s signature project.

�� Do you want to learn Arabic ? Do you want to do that in a short term ?

� Our programme takes you to the level of which you can read, write, speak & understand arabic in just 80 hours Our programme is very efﬁcient and easy. It is designed for non-arabic speakers in a new and modern way. Registration will start on May 1st 2010 and classes will start on July 19th 2010, Monday through Thursday plus Saturday. Evening and afternoon classes available. To register and join these classes or for more details about the locations please contact:

Call Abdurrahman Abusam at 703.464.0019 or email us: AbuZahra@msn.com

“This is my school, your school, this is our school,” he said.

“ISB is going through its own masjid expansion so we understand that the community may feel some fatigue from donating,” said Faisal Abdur-Rahman, chairman of Al-Rahmah’s board of education and a former ISB council member. “But the school is the single entity within ISB that has over 200 students who come to learn 10 months out of the year, so the support is needed more than anything else.” Although the night started off slow and fundraising had to be continued after dinner, an anonymous donor gave $25,000, the largest single donation in the

Al-Rahmah school has seen several advancements over the past year alone, including its addition of a ninth grade class this year, and its recent accreditation from the Commission of Elementary and Middle Schools of the Middle States Association. “Accreditation is like the stamp you see when you go to a restaurant telling you that the meat is zabiha,” Husain said. “It means the school has met certain standards for excellent education.” ----------------------------Note: The Al-Rahmah School Board of Education is currently looking to ﬁll a few positions, including an Al-Rahmah school alumni representative, as well as individuals with good marketing and legal skills. Interested individuals should contact Abdur-Rahman at faisal. abdurrahman@alrahmah.org.

IMA Foundation Incarcerated Muslims of America Foundation (IMAF) is a non-profit organization that reaches out to the Incarcerated Musilms in America by the way of Dawah and Sadaqa.

“And whatsoever you spend of anything in His cause, he will replace it.” As Saba:39 To Inquire or Donate please email

info@imafoundation

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

COMMUNITY NEWS |

ICM Fundraiser Brings Community Closer Towards Construction of New Facility center, which will have a full-size gym, cafeteria, day-care center, senior center, reception hall, health clinic, library, classrooms, bookstore, commercial kitchen and even a recording studio. This would make the facility one of the largest and best-equipped in the region.

University of Maryland’s Shady Grove campus in Rockville on Saturday, May 23.

“We, the youth, are ready to build this facility. Now we’re waiting for you,” said Zaid Bilgrami, as he addressed the 560 people in attendance for the Islamic Center of Maryland’s spring fundraiser at the

Bilgrami, speaking on behalf of the Gaithersburg, Md. mosque’s youth committee, was referring to their eager anticipation of the planned 40,000 square-foot youth and community

AQABAH >> continued from pg 5

athletes from all around the country. Currently it takes place in the Northeast, Midwest, and in the Southeast. One of the most popular categories of the Games is Martial Arts, where participants from all the Islamic Martial Arts schools compete to see who comes out on top. This time, Aqabah Karate did just that.

displayed, giving everyone a chance to see a variety of forms and defense techniques. For Aqabah Karate, the Islamic Games was both a competition and a learning experience. The Islamic Games, established in 1987 but growing considerably since 2007, is an event which brings together Muslim

Aqabah Karate is an all-inclusive Martial Arts school in College Park, Maryland. For more information please visit www. aqabahkarate.com

��

Call or visit our office today to schedule your FREE initial examination.

First, ICM hopes to acquire a sediment control permit, a requirement for all construction in Montgomery County that covers more than 5,000 square feet of land. Naved said ICM met with the Park >> ICM Pg 13

��FREE Initial Exam ��Most Insurances Accepted ��Convenient Location & Office Hours

GRAND OPENING SPECIAL*

No Down Payment & Affordable Monthly Payments as Low as $79/month with No Interest *Offer good through July 30, 2010.

ANISA OMAR, DDS

Orthodontics for Children, Teens and Adults EAST GATE ORTHODONTICS 25401 Eastern Marketplace Plaza Suite 195 South Riding, VA 20152 (P) 703-542-6336 (F) 703-542-6775

EAST GATE ORTHODONTICS

Harris Teeter

EASTERN MARKETPLACE PLAZA Walgreens

Wachovia

HWY

Muslim Link Contributing Writer

Now, groundbreaking is expected in October. ICM then hopes to acquire the building permit by December, which would allow construction to begin in January 2011.

JOHN MOSBY

By Rana Khan

Sayed Naved, ICM treasurer, then gave an update of the center’s master plan and explained the details of the building permit needed to begin construction. The center’s groundbreaking was expected to begin in March.

EASTGATE VIEW DRIVE

Tarif Shraim encourages ICM supporters to spend in charity for the masjid construction. Photo by the author.

While presenting the objectives of the ICM youth committee and listing some of its achievements, Bilgrami said the lack of access to proper facilities, such as a gym, “really handicapped” their preparation efforts for competitions such as the annual D.C. MIST (Muslim Inter-Scholastic Tournament). This emotion was reinforced by the youth skit, presented by Anes Mehai, Fawwaz Siddiqui and Shah Faridi, about three talented ICM youth whose quality of participation in the MIST competition in the categories of basketball, short ﬁlm and Islamic Rap is severely compromised due to a lack of facilities. Other

youth presentations included poetry by Zarifa Azizi and Halima Ahmed.

Taco Bell

Chevy Chase Bank

We Are Committed To Beautiful, Healthy Smiles www.eastgateorthodontics.com

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

8 | COMMUNITY NEWS

Over 7,000 Soak in the Sun at Muslim FunFest Aisha Aulakh

Muslim Link Contributing Writer Thousands of Muslim families from the D.C. area attended The Muslim Link’s third annual Muslim FunFest at High Point Farm in Clarksburg, Md. on Saturday, May 29. Little ones were all smiles as they raced to get into the lines for the moon bounces, slides and rock-climbing. Young ones swiftly got back into the long lines of prominent rides, such as the ﬂying dragon. “I love this ride! I feel like I can ﬂy in the air, like Super Man!” exclaims Umar Abbas, 6, of Olney, Md. Families scoured the bazaar for clothes, jewelry and home decors. Attendees waited in long lines for hours to get a taste of various ethnic foods, including kabobs, falafel, chicken, biryani and local favorites from Pizza Roma and Subway. In addition, Sweet Tooth, known for their delectable, mouth-watering pastries and sweets, also catered dessert for the event. The forecast called for rain in the afternoon, but that did not prevent the

turnout of more than 7,000 attendees. The clouds disappeared a couple of hours into the event. “Rain or shine, I still would have come just to hang out with my friends who I don’t see often,” Marwa Soliman, 15, of Gaithersburg, Md. said while attempting to cool off with a paper fan. “But, I wish it was raining a little, because it is really hot and humid and it’s hard for a hijabi like me to deal with this type of weather. But, Alhamdulillah, it was all worth it.” Although organizers said there was a shortage of volunteers this year, that did not affect the turnout. “I came at 12 o’clock on the dot and before I knew it, there was a huge overﬂow of families, one after another,” said Naifa Hamdi, a volunteer from Cockeysville, Md., who also helped out last year. “I am very much amazed and anxious of the increase of population, Alhamdulilah.” This year, organizers added a 750-foot zip line to the fun-packed carnival rides and games. Youth strapped themselves in a harness and soared down the zip line in 35 seconds tops. Many of the youth were pleased to see that the event offered

better and bigger rides. Families also spent quality time with each other. “MashaAllah, it is a great way for families to spent time with each other,” said Lailaa Jazouli, a mother of two from Burtonsville, Md. “Parents are always working, and our kids are at school during the day, so it is great to be able to spend some time with the family. I’m glad that the kids are excited and having a great time and, at the same time, to be in an Islamic environment. Medina Birhan, a mother of two from D.C., said events like this help unify the community. “I didn’t know that there were so many people with so many different cultures,” Birhan said. “MashaAllah, it is absolutely amazing.” Saifullah Abduo, a father of ﬁve from Richmond, Va., hoped that events like these would prosper in the future. “MashaAllah, my family and I are enjoying ourselves,” he said. “I would be more than overjoyed to hear if different communities would hold events like the

Muslim FunFest. MashaAllah, the food here is, ya’nee’, delicious!” Rich Eperthener, a parking and security attendant, was completely astonished by the turnout, an increase from the almost 5,000 people who attended last year’s FunFest. “I am surprised by the number of people here,” Eperthener said. “It is 4 o’clock and people are still coming.” Minhaj Hasan, editor-in-chief of The Muslim Link, said organizers spent more than six months preparing for the event. “The farm had to be reserved well in advance and the marketing went into high gear in the ﬁnal four weeks,” Hasan said. “The entire event cost about $40,000, which covered venue rental, rides, food and other expenses.” Approximately $55,000 came in from tickets, food sales, and vending fees. Extra proceeds go to The Muslim Link. Despite the vast turnout at Funfest, there were some complaints >> FUN FEST Pg 10

The third annual Muslim Funfest carnival wasn’t just about fun, but about learning as well. Al-Huda School’s science department offered hands-on science lessons at the Al-Huda School tent, like this “coke shower” experiment which caught the “lab assistants” by surprise. Photos by Adnaan Ahmad.

June 4th - June 17th , 2010 PRAYER >> continued from pg 1 the women’s space behind the men’s congregation; men who came in late formed lines behind the protesting women. After the prayer, a confrontation ensued between the caretaker of the masjid and the Pray-In group. The police were called. This ﬁrst protest received a good amount of media attention, but – maybe because the Islamic Center of Washington DC is largely disconnected from the community-based masajid in the region – most area Muslims did not take notice. In early May, however, Thompson and members of her group staged a pray-in protest at Dar Al-Hijrah, the region’s largest masjid. Reporters, invited by Thompson, were already on the scene. Although Dar Al-Hijrah has a second ﬂoor mezzanine overlooking the main prayer hall designated for women, Imam Shaker Elsayed allowed the protesters to pray in the main prayer area but only in the very back, citing a hadith which states the back most rows are the best for women. The group refused, demanding to pray with only a few rows of space between them and the men. Thompson told the Muslim Link asking the women to pray at the back wall was “essentially an attempt to humiliate” the group. A heated exchange took place, and after the prayer, the police escorted the women off the property. Dar Al-Hijrah told Thompson she was no longer welcome at the masjid. The incident, covered on the front page of the Washington Post’s Metro section, shocked area Muslims. Moreover, Thompson told the Washington Post she already had another local masjid in mind for the next protest, and that the group won’t stop. The Muslim Link spoke to several community leaders and Imams about the Pray-In group; very few agreed to speak about the group, and those who did answer inquiries chose to speak off the record. Muslim leaders of masajid in Maryland and Northern Virginia were roundly critical, even upset, that Pray-In is making what one board member called a “big drama” out of barriers in the

COMMUNITY NEWS | masjid. “Our own community sisters who come and pray [throughout the week] at our masjid have never had a problem with the barriers. And now this outside group is coming with their reporters from Fox News and [other media] to make the community a laughing stock in front of everyone. It is irresponsible and …

leadership] before hand … the responses were variable,” she said. In April, Dar Al-Hijrah’s Imam Shaker Elsayed accepted Thompson’s invitation to speak on a panel on the women’s prayer space issue. The discussion did not prevent the heated pray-in protest at the Falls Church, VA masjid a few weeks later.

Muslim leaders of masajid in Maryland and Northern Virginia were roundly critical, even upset, that Pray-In is making what one board member called a “big drama” out of barriers in the masjid. selﬁsh. It is totally against what Islam teaches,” said a board member of a large area masjid. The masjid is exploring legal ways to prevent the group from coming on the property, he said, adding that the policy is still being discussed.

Imam Saﬁ Khan of the Dar-us-Salaam community in College Park, Maryland agreed with other area leaders that taking the issue to the media is not the best way to approach the issue.

Pray-In maintains that prayer barriers between the genders are a “bida’”, or a “religious innovation” that did not exist at the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Thompson told the Muslim Link she invites reporters along to be witnesses if there are any verbal or physical threats made against the protesters; the group also believes mass media coverage of their protests is the only way to force Muslim community leaders to address their concerns. Pray-In alleges that one of its members was assaulted by a prayer attendee at Dar Al-Hijrah. Masjid leaders also question why Thompson’s group doesn’t speak with the Imam or the masjid administration to attempt to amicably resolve any issues with the prayer arrangements. Thompson said she does reach out. “Everywhere where we’ve had a prayin, we have tried to engage the [masjid

“There are Islamic vehicles to go through, like talking to the Imam, talking to the women in the community through the halaqas and [through] education … making the community aware of the issue. If the Imam is not responsive, we should go to the other nearby Imams to speak to that Imam. We should also go to the ulema [scholars] to issue a fatwa on the issue. If all these ways are tried and the issue is not resolved, Islamically what should be done is to remain patient, and keep educating the community. There is [a detailed] and comprehensive Islamic process for resolving differences, and we should follow that,” he explained. Imam Saﬁ Khan met with Ify Okoye, a Pray-In member who lives close to Darus-Salaam and often attends his Friday khutbah. Okoye called for the meeting,

asking about the prayer arrangement for women at Dar-us-Salaam. A revert Muslimah like Thompson, Okoye said it’s “bad da’wah” when she brings her female non-Muslim relatives to the masjid and they discover women pray behind a partition. Pray-In maintains that prayer barriers between the genders are a “bida’”, or a “religious innovation” that did not exist at the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Imam Saﬁ agreed. “The closest to the sunnah is to not have a barrier. If most of the sisters request the partition because they feel more comfortable like that, there is nothing haram about that. And if most of the sisters don’t want the partition, then there won’t be one – provided the sisters maintain the proper hijab. If the sisters don’t wear the proper hijab, then we need to make shura [consultation] with the sisters and see what we need to do, whether that is a partition, more education, or rules for the masjid,” said Imam Saﬁ, who said that he can only speak on behalf of Dar-us-Salaam and not other masajid. “The Prophet Salallahu ‘alyhi wa sallam instructed the men to not turn around until the women left. If the brothers don’t follow that, then maybe in that situation a barrier could be put up,” he added. Citing a fatwa on the issue, Fatima Thompson insists that not only are barriers un-Islamic, but a space larger than a few rows between the men and women invalidates the women’s congregational prayer. She could not recall the name of the scholar who issued the ruling; the fatwa is also not on the group’s Facebook page. Imam Hassan Amin, an Islamic Chaplain in Baltimore City, said local Imams should give a khutbah about the issue of partitions in the masjid, and how men and women should arrange themselves in the prayer area. Many Muslims familiar with the PrayIn group consider them “progressive Muslims”, a moniker which came into use over the past decade to describe Muslims who advocate for free interpretation of the Qur’an, the Imamship of women, and the permissibility of homosexuality. >> PRAYER II Pg 10

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

10 | COMMUNITY NEWS PRAYER II >> continued from pg 9 Although Fatima Thompson is afﬁliated with a progressive Muslim group – a homosexual man who calls himself an Imam accompanied the ﬁrst prayin protest in Washington DC – she is adamant that the Pray-In movement is independent from any progressive organizations. Many Muslims who identify themselves as progressives are supporters of the Pray-In movement.

Asked if she thinks the involvement of people like homosexuals and ﬁgures like Asra Nomani – the main organizer of a women-led mixed gender juma prayer in New York in 2005 – affected the credibility of the Pray-In movement, she said no. Mentioning her participation at a Gaza rally in which some Jews also took part, she said “does [the participation of the Jewish people] detract from the message of standing up against injustice? No.”

While several area Muslims sympathized with the lack of proper prayer accommodations for women at some area masajid, almost all Muslims who spoke to the Muslim Link said they disagree with the group’s methods. At one Maryland masjid, women heard about the Pray-In group but were not interested. “We don’t know them. They don’t come here. Our needs are being met [at our masjid] ... we have classes and a lot of

activities, some with the brothers, and some just for sisters. We have needy, single mothers [in our communities] who don’t have money to feed their kids [properly]. And these sisters are worried about prayer barriers? They need to get over it,” said one sister on her way to a weekend class. As for the rest of the women in the area masajid, the Pray-In movement doesn’t really know how the majority of them feel about the prayer accommodations. Asked if they ever presented a petition of local women to a masjid board or Imam, they said no. The women, they said, are probably too intimidated by the men to sign any petition. Asked if they approached the Coordinating Council of Muslim Organizations of the DC area – an umbrella group representing most masajid in the region – with their concerns, they said not yet. Like Thompson, the chairperson of the CCMO is from Baltimore, and is also a woman. FUN FEST >> continued from pg 8 “To be fair, I feel that the event should have been moved to another weekend,” Jazouli said. “There were a lot of those here today who wanted to attend ICNA (The Islamic Circle of North America conference) this weekend [in Connecticut], but were not able to do so because they wanted to attend this event and vice versa.” “InshAllah, for the future, that is something that can be set.” What to expect for next year? For next year’s Muslim Funfest 2011, these little kids with big brains are expecting something bigger and better. “I would want a Ferris wheel, a merrygo-round, and an extreme water penguin ride that goes up and down!” exclaimed Saﬁa Ahmed, 8, from Silver Spring, Md. When Ilham Diwani, a junior from AlHuda School in College Park, Md., was asked to use one word to describe the event, she beamed and said the event was, “Legitly, amazingly, awesome.” Send your feedback and suggestions on the carnival using the survey at www. muslimfunfest.com.

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

COMMUNITY NEWS | 11 �� Alha mdu lillah , I am happy to present to you

Watch Living Islam in America” on MHz Nework’s WorldView Channel Every Sunday afternoon at 3pm “WorldView Channel” via Local Cable Companies OTA

Comcast

Cox

RCN

30.1

271

470*

Verizon FiOS 451*

DirecTV 2183/972

Dish Network 8077

WorldTV 52

��

Living Islam in Ame rica!

ucer Hassanah Thomas-Tauhidi, Spearheaded by award-winning Executive Prod ectives, this new show is the producer of the pioneering show Islamic Persp rience and is poised to deliver expe and culmination of many years of hard work ective to millions of viewers throughquality programming from an Islamic persp ons, I mean millions - Living Islam in out the United States. And when I say milli h reaches approximately 4 million whic 1, America is broadcast on MHz networks area. That means 4 million chances viewers in the Washington, DC metropolitan n about Islam and the burgeoning and each week to educate the general populatio rica. Four million chances to create Ame t diverse Muslim communities throughou and interfaith cooperation. Four milan environment of understanding, dialogue ghtful dialogue concerning Muslims lion chances to engage in balanced and thou and Islam. Just imagine! your community reflected in the Living Islam in America is your chance to see ss issues that are important to discu and es stori media. We want to highlight your importantly, we need your support. you. To do that we need your input, and more your comments and suggestions. it I encourage you to visit our website and subm Your suggestions and donations enAnd I implore you to donate, donate, donate! see our community Living Islam to sure that more and more people will continue in America. Your Brother,

Imam Johari Abdu l Mali k Inner-Atta inment Telev ision 501(C)(3)(t ax ID#: 31-176 4918) http://www.ia-tv.org Our sponsors: Odyssey Networks, Banneker Investments

12 | COMMUNITY NEWS

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

June 4th - June 17th , 2010 ICM >> continued from pg 7 and Planning Commission in March and May, and the county has already approved a sediment control permit for ICM. But a third meeting with the Commission is scheduled for June 3, to iron out some details and to attempt to remove two conditions imposed upon ICM as a result of the permit receipt. Naved said it is very critical that community members attend this meeting in large numbers to show their support. “They really, really need to see and know the community,” Naved said. “If they see large numbers of community members, it will affect their decision.” ICM has collected $1 million so far, and needs an additional $200,000 to begin construction. To date, over $130,000 has been spent on the project.

IRHSCA >> continued from pg 5

“The couple has to determine what they want from the relationship, and counseling can help to determine that,” Haddad said. “But most importantly they have to learn how to communicate and keep praying.” Rashid, Naima Karen Gaal, executive director of Power in Sisters, and Abdul Wali Timberlake, a family support specialist and youth coordinator for Millati Islami, spoke about parenting. The purpose of parenting is to transmit

COMMUNITY NEWS | 13 Nadeem Ahmad, president of ICM, stressed the need to maintain a decent cash ﬂow during the phases of construction, whenever it does get under way. To this end, he detailed a new fundraising structure for ICM that encompassed ﬁve avenues of generating funds. ICM has received two exemptions from Montgomery County allowing it to perform construction on more than eight percent of its property. Ahmad said it was very unlikely that their application for a third exemption would be accepted.

property – the center must break ground by the end of 2010. If construction starts, then they should get an extension within which to complete it, he said. ICM has put a “self-imposed limit” to complete the construction by 2014. The county may also impose a time limit of their own when ICM tries to obtain a building permit.

wake up and our children are losing their faith.” Shraim said this construction was not about enlarging and expanding a prayer space, but about “saving lives” and “putting [forth] the effort to nurture and raise our children”. “This is an urgent and critical step,” said Shraim. “We need men and women who understand and appreciate the enormity of this cause.”

The current exemption expires in January 2011. If the ICM master plan is delayed again, the center could quite possibly be forced to reduce their facilities until they fell within the eight percent allotted for land usage. Anything above that would have to be returned to its normal state.

Tarif Shraim, who serves as a Chaplain at the University of Maryland, conducted fundraising. The event began with a collective supplication seeking sincerity and assistance in giving for this cause. Shraim emphasized the urgent need for such a facility that would cater to the needs of the youth and provide them with a venue for positive activities. He reminded the audience of a “hurtful truth” he has encountered many times in his work as a Muslim chaplain.

Ahmad said the county is not going to extend the exemption without evidence to back up ICM’s intention to build on the

“Your children are not immune from these problems (that plague other youth),” Shraim said. “A lot of us are refusing to

Donations towards this effort can be made online at www.icomd.org or checks mailed toICM, 19411 Woodﬁeld Road, Gaithersburg, MD 20879

the culture from one generation the next generation and that transmission must be done in an environment of patience, kindness and love, the speakers said. Rashid said children will not learn kindness unless their parents are kind themselves. Gaal told the audience that the ﬁrst six years of a child’s life is inﬂuenced 100 percent by the parents unless the child is in daycare or school. Timberlake said the cycle of single parent homes has to stop and that the adults have to step up to the plate to help the youth and provide them with the examples that they need to be good parents.

been established to work with Muslim offenders, many of whom also have drug dependency problems. Imam Bilal Ali Prather, program director of Millati Islami, presented the audience with some very startling statistics of the nature of the drug addiction issues and the resulting crimes committed that land many Muslims in the prison system.

Anisah Monte, 29, of Silver Spring, Md., said she beneﬁted from the program. “I wanted to expand my knowledge on how to build a strong Muslim family,” Monte said. “I learned that if problems should arise within the family, there are resources and support available in the community.”

Millati Islami (The Path of Peace) is the only Islamic oriented organization in the Washington, D.C. area that has

“Millati Islami provides a 12-step treatment program based on Islamic guidelines and principles,” Prather said. “Drug use is a ﬁtna of shaitan and a major sin that leads to other sins”. The ﬁnal speaker, Dr. Khadijah Abdul Malik, a nutrition expert, talked about diet and health being at the root of many social ills.

The audience responded generously and raised more than $75,000 in the ﬁrst 30 minutes. By the end of the evening, the donations and pledges amounted to around $115,000, bringing the ICM community and the youth one step closer to realizing their vision for the new facility.

By all accounts, the workshop was a great success. Abdul Samad said he believed the workshop met expectations, and that similar programs would follow in the near future.

v 14 | ISLAM

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

Islam

Be Thankful for the Simple Things By Sheikh Salman al-Oadah One of the best things Allah can bless us to have is a contented heart. A man once approached a wise sage complaining of poverty. The sage asked him: “Would you sell me your eyesight for 100 thousand gold coins?” The man said no. The sage continued: “Would you sell me your hearing for 100 thousand gold coins?” The man again said no. The sage then asked the man about his hands, his feet, his sanity, and his other limbs. To each question the man replied that he would not sell. The sage then pointed out to the man that he had valued himself to the tune of a few million gold coins. The sage then declared: “You have a great debt upon your shoulders. This great wealth you possess places demands on you. When are you going to show thanks? Instead, you complain that you want more. Your Lord is truly forgiving and generous.” A person who is free from worry, secure in home and health, takes greater pleasure in food and drink and life in general. The

simple everyday enjoyments are savored, like time spent with one’s spouse or children and in partaking of even the simplest meals. The happy atmosphere that comes from being relaxed, feeling safe, and having one’s health makes one’s enjoyments all the greater.

Allah apportions His bounty among His creatures as He pleases. Some people are better off being wealthy. If Allah gives them wealth, they spend a portion of it on the poor and needy. Moreover, they feel humble before Allah in recognition of what He has given them.

around?

By contrast, if someone possesses a variety of food and drink and wealth in abundance, but lives in a constant state of fear, anxiety, and stress, what that person possesses will be of little real value. The same can be said for a person who is stricken with a serious physical or mental illness.

We should never forget that Allah provides us with our health, our minds, our food and drink, our children, our good appearances, our strength, our vitality in youth and our good sense. Many of us take these blessings for granted and fail to recognize them as Allah’s gifts. Only those whose hearts are alive with faith recognize the blessings in everyday things. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Allah is pleased with a servant who praises Him when he eats something and praises Him when he has something to drink.” [Sahīh Muslim (2734)]

The water we drink, the air we breathe, the ears we hear with, the eyes that allow us to see, the minds we reason with, the hearts by which we feel – these are all enjoyments that Allah provides for us, whether we realize it or not. We should make ourselves aware of this fact, thank Allah, and avoid ingratitude. When we show thanks for Allah’s blessings, they grow stronger in our lives. When we are ungrateful, those blessings abandon us. Allah tells us: “…proclaim the favor of your Lord.” [Sūrah al-Duhā: 11]

This is why the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever is secure in his home, has his health and enough provisions for a day, it is as if he has everything in the world.” [Sunan alTirmidhī (2346) and Sunan Ibn Mājah (4141)] It is a great blessing to have enough food, clothing, and shelter to satisfy one’s needs. There is nothing wrong with desiring more than that, as long as one seeks it by lawful means, since

We show our thanks to Allah for all of His blessings when we praise Him. Is it a small thing to have your health and strength? Is it a small thing to live assured of enough food and drink, a home to live in, clothes to wear, and the means to get

” Gloriﬁed be He who has subdued these unto us, and we were not capable (of subduing them); and surely to our Lord we must return.” [Sūrah al-Zukhruf: 1314]

One of the best things Allah can provide us with is a contented heart. We are also blessed immensely if we have stability in our lives, harmony in our homes, and peace in our hearts. Source: http://en.islamtoday.net/ artshow-422-3646.htm

Partitions Between Men & Women in the Masjid Question: As-Salamu `aaykum. We have a big controversy going on in our Masjid. Some brothers want to build a wall in the prayer hall musalla to separate men from women. Is that required in Islam? What are the basic rules of Shari`ah on this matter?

This is the way Muslims used to pray behind the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). He did not make or ask his Companions to have a curtain or wall between the lines of men and women. (See Al-Sindi’s Commentary on Sunan An-Nasa’i, p. 798)

Giving a detailed answer to the question posed, Dr. Muzammil H. Siddiqi of the Fiqh Council of North America , states:

According to the Shari`ah, it is not required to have a partition, neither of temporary nor of permanent nature, between men and women in the Masjid.

Both men and women are allowed to pray in the Mosque in the same Jama`ah (congregational prayer). When men and women are together in the Masjid then we should have ﬁrst men’s lines behind the Imam, then children and then women.

It is perfectly Islamic to hold meetings of men and women inside the Masjid, whether for prayers or for any other Islamic purpose, without separating them with a curtain, partition or wall.

It is, however, very important that Muslim women come to public gatherings wearing proper Islamic dress, for it is Haram (forbidden) for a Muslim woman to attend a public gathering without a full Islamic dress. She must cover her hair and neck with a scarf, which should also go over her bosom. Her dress should be modest and loose enough in order not to reveal the shape of her body. It stands to reason that partitions were introduced inside the Masajid later in Islamic history. This was done, perhaps, because some women began coming to Mosques without observing proper Islamic dress, or perhaps, some men

wanted to discourage them from coming to Mosques. In the time of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) there was no curtain or partition in his Masjid, although women used to come to the Masjid almost for every prayer and for many other gatherings. It is, however, reported that they used to come to the Masjid dressed up in long clothes. `A’ishah, the Mother of the Believers (may Allah be pleased with her) said that the believing women used to attend the Dawn prayer with the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). They used to come wrapped up in their long garments

>> PARTITIONS Pg 15

ISLAM | 15

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

Sponsor TML’s Ramadhan Insert In Ramadhan of 2008, the Muslim Link in cooperation with a local dawa group produced a high-quality, 4page glossy insert on Ramadhan -- “A Primer on the Month of Fasting from Your Muslim American Neighbors”. The attractive newsletter is aimed at your non-Muslim neighbors and co-workers. With basic information on Ramadhan, a frequently asked questions section, and a “Did You Know” section, this pamphlet helped PARTITIONS >> continued from pg 14 and then they used to return to their homes after the prayer, no one could recognize them because of the darkness. (Reported by Al-Bukhari) Jama`ah means a congregation of people who are praying behind one Imam in continuous lines without any barrier or interruption. As for people who pray behind the Imam, they should either see

the Imam or see those who are in front of them. There is no Jamaàh when a person is in one room and his/her Imam in another room, the lines are not continuous and the people behind the Imam are also not visible, otherwise people would not have to come to the Masjid for Jamaàh prayer. They would stay home and pray listening to the loudspeakers from their Masjid or through intercoms. They could nowadays even pray Jamaàh prayer in this way in their own homes listening to the prayer broadcasts coming from Makkah and Madinah on their radios, television sets or through the Internet.

Muslims across the region explain why they have to “skip lunch”. The Muslim Link will be re-printing over 10,000 of these newsletters for insertion and distribution this coming Ramadhan. This is not a profitmaking venture, and we are soliciting donors who would like to bless their wealth by spreading the good news about Ramadhan across the region. The estimated cost for this project is But no jurists have ever allowed a Jamaàh prayer in this way. The definition of Jamaàh that I gave above is a general one and it is applicable to both men and women. Only in the case of necessity this rule can be relaxed. For example, if the Masjid was too small and people had to pray on different levels or in different rooms to accommodate every person then this would be permissible because of necessity. Muslims should not deliberately and for no reason bifurcate their congregation in their Masajid. If there is a concern that the lines of men

$2,500 -- it includes printing, design, and distribution. If you would like to participate in this charitable venture, send a check or money order payable to the Muslim Link to: The Muslim Link, Attn: Ramadhan Insert, 5301 Edgewood Road, College Park MD 20740. Make sure to put “Ramadhan Insert” in the memo. Your donation is tax deductible.

and women will mix inside the Masajid, then there is no harm in putting a lower barrier, only to demarcate the separate area for women. But women should not be put in a totally separate room in the Masajid unless there is a shortage of space and no other proper arrangement can be done for them. _______________________ The above quotation is excerpted, with slight modiﬁcations, from www. islamfortoday.com Source: islamonline. net

16 | SALAAH TIMES

Salaah times for June 4th - June 17th, 2010

If a person had a stream outside his door and he bathed in it fi ve times a day, do you think he would have any fi lth left on him?” The people said, “No filth would remain on him whatsoever.” The Prophet (peace be upon him) then said, “That is like the fi ve daily prayers: Allah wipes away the sins by them.” ---Hadith in Sahih al Bukhari and Muslim

Day Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu

Date 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

Hijri 21/6 22/6 23/6 24/6 25/6 26/6 27/6 28/6 29/6 1/7 2/7 3/7 4/7 5/7

Fajr 4:10 4:10 4:09 4:09 4:08 4:08 4:08 4:08 4:07 4:07 4:07 4:07 4:07 4:07

Sunrise 5:42 5:42 5:42 5:42 5:41 5:41 5:41 5:41 5:41 5:41 5:41 5:41 5:41 5:41

Prayer times generated from www.islamicﬁnder.com

Info Session: June 13th @ 11am

Dhuhr 1:07 1:07 1:07 1:07 1:07 1:07 1:08 1:08 1:08 1:08 1:09 1:09 1:09 1:09

Asr 5:02 5:03 5:03 5:03 5:03 5:04 5:04 5:04 5:04 5:05 5:05 5:05 5:05 5:06

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

Maghrib 8:30 8:31 8:31 8:32 8:32 8:33 8:33 8:34 8:34 8:35 8:35 8:36 8:36 8:36

Isha 10:03 10:04 10:05 10:06 10:06 10:07 10:08 10:08 10:09 10:09 10:10 10:10 10:11 10:11

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

Request For Dua’s

{ To Allah We B e l o n g , a n d t o H i m i s O u r R e t u r n }

“Everyone is going to taste death, and We shall make a trial of you with evil and good, and to Us you will be returned.” (Surah Al-Anbiya:35)” 5-22-10 INNA LILLAHI WA INNA ILAYHI RAAJI’OON (To Him we

belong and to Him is our return) Father of Brother Muhammad Ajad CPA passed away in India. May Allah SWT forgive him and reward him a place in Jannat-Al- Firdaus, Ameen. (Source: Al Falaah)

5-24-10 Innaa lillaahi wa innaa illaihi raaje’oon “To Allah we belong and to Him is our return” On April 26th /9th Jumada al Awwal, Br. Syed Husain’s elder sister passed away in Hyderabad, India. May Allah accept her good deeds forgive her sins and enter her into Jannat ul Firdaus, Aameen (Source: ICM) 5-26-10 Sr. Haneefah Abdul Kareem, wife of Br. Salahuddeen Abdul Kareem, passed away in late May. Her funeral was held May 26, 2010. Her janaza and burial were held in Manassas Virgina. (Source: S. Baten)

OBITS & EVENTS | 17

Upcoming Events In Your Area Qadiyanism - “Against or in Harmony with the fundamentals of Islam?” Saturday, June 05 2010, 1:30pm - 3:00pm Qadiyanism - Against or in Harmony with the fundamentals of Islam? “Let us look into the life of Mirza Ghulam Ahmed” “Let us analyze the claims of Mirza Ghulam Ahmed” By Shaikh Omar F. Khan. Saturday, June 5th 2010 at 1:30 pm. at Islamic Community Center of Laurel. Location: Islamic Community Center of Laurel, Contact: 301-317-4584 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ADAMS Muslim Children Education Fair Sunday, June 06 2010, 2:00pm - 7:00pm

First Ever Muslim Children Education Fair at ADAMS. What are your plans for your child’s education? Full Time Islamic School or Public School? What Programs are available to help keep their Islamic identity? Is home schooling an option? Overwhelmed? Or under- informed? Come and hear about your options for Islamic Education. We got it covered Pre-K to 12th grade. Have questions about our Education programs? Contact: EPOC@ADAMSCENTER.US,703-433-1325 x101 Location: ADAMS Center; Main Hall; 46903 Sugarland Rd; Sterling, VA; 20164 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

American Muslims For Palestine Fundraiser Sunday, June 06 2010, 6:30pm - 9:00pm

American Muslims for Palestine Fundraiser. 62 years...passing on the promise, holding onto the key. Featuring: George Galloway, Dr. Hatem Bazian. Babysitting will be available. Debka Performance. Tickets: Adults $20, Students $10. www.ampalestine. org. Location: George Mason University Johnson Center, Dewberry Hall, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030. Contact: For more info, call 202.236.8816 or email info@ampalestine.org ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ICNA VA Fundraising Dinner Saturday, June 12 2010, 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Help us meet our goal of $400,00 to rebuild our masjid! Remember the Hadith of the Prophet (PBUH), “Whoever builds a Masjid seeking Allah’s pleasure, Allah will build for him a similar place in paradise”. - narrated Al-Bukhari. Guest Speakers: Sh. Shaker El Sayyed, Sh. Saﬁ Khan, Imam Mahdi Bray. Buy tickets online: www.icnava. org; by mail or from the ICNA Center: ICNA Islamic Center; 2913 Woodlawn Trail; Alexandria, VA 22306. Location: Westin Hotel Tysons Corner; 7801 Leesburg Pike; Falls Church, VA 22043. Contact: Br. Zahid, 703.405.3332; Dr. Tellawi, 703.244.7269; email: info@icnava.org ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

To Advertise in the Muslim Link Call

301-982-1020 or Email us at

ofﬁce@ muslimlinkpaper.com

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

18 | MASJID LOCATOR

MASJID LOCATOR ADAMS CENTER:

46903 Sugarland Rd, Sterling,VA 20164, Tel: 703-433-1325, www.adamscenter.org.

ALL MUSLIM BROTHERS ASSOCIATION

3900 King Street Alexandria, VA 22302 703-647-0515 Jumma Prayer ONLY - 1:15 p.m

AVONDALE ISLAMIC CENTER: 4637 Eastern Ave., Hyattsville, MD, 20782, Tel: 301-779-9292.

BAITUL MUKARRAM: 2116 S Nelson St., Arlington, VA, 22204, Tel: 703-778-1550.

DAR AL HIJRAH:

3159 Rowe St., Falls Church, VA 22044, Tel: 703-536-1030, www.hijrah.org.

Do you have additions, changes, or corrections to the event listings in the Muslim Link? Email us at events@muslimlinkpaper.com, or call us at 301-982-1020.

FIRST HIJRA MUSLIM COMM. CENTER:

ISLAMIC FOUND. OF AMERICA (IFA):

MAKKAH LEARNING CENTER (MLC):

6606 Electronic Dr., Springﬁeld, VA 22151 Tel: 703-914-4982, www.ifa.ws.

814 Brandy Farms Ln Gambrills, MD 21054 Tel: 410-721-5880 www.mlcmd. org, Email: info@mlcmd.org

ICNA VA CENTER:

ISLAMIC HERITAGE CENTER (IHC):

MANASSAS MOSQUE:

4324 Georgia Ave, NW Washington, DC 20011 www.ﬁrsthijrah.org. 2913 Woodlawn Trail, Alexandria, VA 22306. 703-660-1255

IDARA DAWAT-O-IRSHAD: 4803 Valley St, Alexandria, VA 22312 703-256-8622, www.irshad.org.

INDONESIAN MUSLIM ASSOC. IN AMERICA (IMAAM):

1611 Veirs Mill Rd, Silver Spring, MD 20851 Tel: 240-453-0808, e-mail: fkadir@imaamnet.org.

INST.OF ISLAMIC AND ARABIC SCIENCES IN AMERICA (IIASA):

DAR AL-SALAAM:

8500 Hilltop Rd., Fairfax, VA 22031 Tel: 703-641-4890, www.iiasa.org

DAR AL-NOOR (MUSLIM ASSOC. OF VA):

IRHSCA (ISLAMIC RESEARCH AND HUM. SERVICES CENTER OF AMERICA):

15250 Dumfries Rd., Mannassas,VA 20112.

5404 Hoadly Rd., Manassas, VA 20112, Tel: 703-580-0808, Fax: 703-2218513, www.daralnoor.org.

DAR AL-TAQWA:

10740 Rte. 108, Ellicott City, MD 21042, Tel: 410-997-5711, www.taqwa.net.

DAR UL ULOOM,

6334 Dogwoood Rd, Baltimore, MD 21207, 410-493-0785 Email:darululoommd@aol.com

DAR UL-GHURABA (Masjid ur Rahmah): 155 Baker St., Emporia, VA 23487, Tel. 434-348-786.

DAR-UL HUDA:

6666 Commerce St., Springﬁeld, VA 22150, Tel: 703-922-0111, www.darulhuda.org

DAR-US-SALAAM:

5301 Edgewood Rd. College Park, MD 20740, Tel: 301-982-9848, www.darussalaam.org.

Chambers Ave, Capitol Heights, MD Tel: 301-324-5040, www.irhsca.org.

ISLAMIC CENTER OF GREATER SOUTH EAST (FORMERLY MASJID ASH-SHURA)

3109-B Martin Luther King Ave., S.E.Washington, DC 20032 202-506-7235

ISLAMIC CENTER OF MARYLAND (ICM): 19401 Woodﬁeld Rd. Gaithersburg,MD 20879 Tel:301-840-9440, www.icomd.org.

ISLAMIC CENTER OF NORTHERN VA TRUST (ICNVT):

4420 Shirley Gate Road, Fairfax, VA, 22030 Tel: 703-941-6558, info@icnvt.org | www.icnvt.org

ISLAMIC COM. CENTER OF LAUREL (ICCL): 7306 Contee Rd., Laurel, MD 20707 Tel: 301-317-4584, www.icclmd.org

262 A-3 Cedar Ln., Vienna, VA 22180 Tel: 703-206-9056.

12950 Center Entrance Ct, Manassas, VA Tel: 703-257-5537.

ISLAMIC SOC. OF ANNAPOLIS (ISA):

MASJID AL-GHURABAA:

2635 Riva RdSuite 110 Annapolis, MD 21401 Tel: 410-266-6660 www.islamannapolis.org, Email: info@islamannapolis.org

ISLAMIC SOC. OF FREDERICK (ISF):

8220 Washington St., South, Laurel, MD 20724. Tel: 301-604-3295.

MASJID AL-HIKMAH:

11064 Livingston Road Unit L (101) Ft. Washington, MD 20744, Tel: 301 292-9009.

1250 Key Parkway , Frederick,MD 21702 Tel: 301-682-6090, www.isfmd.org.

MASJID UL-HAQ:

ISLAMIC SOCIETY OF GERMANTOWN (ISG):

MASJID AL-ISLAM:

19900 Brandermill Rd., Germantown, MD 20876 Tel: (301)-972-0504, www.isgtown.org.

ISLAMIC SOC. OF SOUTHERN PG COUNTY (ISSPGC):

P O Box 99, Clinton, MD 20735 5410 Indian Head Hwy, Oxon Hill, MD 20745 Tel: 240-253-4217

ISLAMIC SOC. OF THE WASHINGTON AREA (ISWA): 2701 Briggs Chaney Rd. Silver Spring, MD 20904 Tel: 301-879-0930, www.iswamd.org.

ISLAMIC SOC. OF WESTERN MARYLAND: 2036 Day Rd., Hagerstown, MD 21740 Tel: 301-797-0922.

IVY CITY MASJID:

514 Islamic Way (Wilson St. ), Baltimore, MD 21217 Tel: 410-728-1363. 4603 Benning Rd., SE, Washington, DC 20019 Tel: 202-581-1616, e-mail: imammusa@hotmail.com

MASJID AL-INSHIRAH:

7832 Fairbrook Road , Windsor Mill, MD 21244 Tel: 410-298-2977, Fax: 410-2980266, www.al-inshirahweb.net.

MASJID AL-MUMINEEN: 2642 Harford Rd. Baltimore, MD 21218 Tel: 410-467-8798.

MASJID JAMAAT ALMUSLIMEEN: 4624 York Rd., Baltimore, MD 21212 Tel. 443-869-5233.

MASJID MUHAMMAD: 1519 4th St. NW, Washington D.C. 20001 Tel: 202-483-8832. MASJID AL-NOOR:

2001 Galludet St. NE, Washington, DC 20002 Tel: 202-529-3100.

10012 Harford Rd., Carney, MD 21234 Tel: 410-663-9637, Fax: 410-663-9817.

LA PLATA MASJID:

MASJID AL-RAHMAH/ISB:

111 Howard Street, La Plata, MD 20646 Tel: 301-609-8769.

6631 Johnny Cake Rd. Baltimore, MD 21244 Tel: 410-747-4869, www.isb.org

MASJID AS SAFFAT: 1335 W. North Ave. Baltimore, MD 21217 Tel: 410-669-0655.

MASJID BAIT-ALLAH:

1910 Frederick Avenue (2 Floor) Baltimore, MD 21223 Tel: 443-224-4423, E-mail: info@masjidbaitallah.org. www.masjidbaitallah.org

MASJID IBN TAYMIYYAH: 8000 MLK Highway, Glenarden MD Tel: 301-461-9325.

MASJID ZAMZAM 1510 Lynch Road, Dundalk, MD 21222 Phone: 410-284-2840

MEDINA CENTER: 9426 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda MD 20814 www.medinacenter.net

MUSLIM COM. CENTER (MCC):

15200 New Hampshire Ave. Silver Spring, MD 20904 Tel: 301-384-3454, www.mccmd.org.

MUSLIM SOC. OF WASHINGTON, D.C. (MSWDC):

Howard Center, Room 805 (Above HU Bookstore) Tel: 202-328-3236, www.mswdc.org.

MUSTAFA CENTER:

6844 Braddock Rd., Annandale, VA 22003.

PRINCE GEORGES MUSLIM ASSOC. (PGMA): 9150 Lanham Severn Rd. Lanham, MD, 20706, Tel: 301-459-4942, www. pgmamd.org. Imam’s Ofﬁce: 301-459-1441, imam@pgmamd.org. SOUTHERN MARYLAND ISLAMIC CENTER(SMIC): 1046 Solomons Island Rd, Huntingtown, MD, 20639. Tel: 410- 535-0000 THE ISLAMIC CENTER: 2551 Mass. Ave. NW Washington D.C. 20008 Tel: 202-332-8343.

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

ADVERTISEMENT | 19

Editor-in-Chief: Minhaj Hasan Office Manager : Stephanie Benmoha News Desk: Rashad Mulla Layout & Design: Fadlullah Firman Staff Writers: Farkhunda Ali Farha Marfani Rashad Mulla Yaman Shalabi Sharia Advisors: Sheikh Salah as-Sawi Imam Safi Khan The Muslim Link (TML) is published on the first Friday of every Islamic month (Hijri calendar) and distributed throughout the Washington, Baltimore, and Northern Virginia Metropolitan Areas. TML is a non-profit publication and is based at Dar-us-Salaam in College Park, Maryland, USA. Staff and contributors are not necessarily affiliated with Dar-us-Salaam. The views expressed in The Muslim Link do not necessarily reflect those of Dar-us-Salaam or TML management or their underwriters. Dar-usSalaam and TML are not responsible for the accuracy of information presented by advertisers, or for the religious compliance of events, products, or services published in TML. This publication contains the names of ALLAH (Subhanahu wa ta’ala). Please keep, recycle, or share it with others The Muslim Link 5301 Edgewood Road College Park, MD 20740 Phone : (301) 982-1020 Fax: 240-209-0702 editor@muslimlinkpaper.com Advertising: 301-982-1020 or email us at ads@muslimlinkpaper.com The Muslim Link. All Rights Reserved 2010

Subscribe to the Muslim Link! To get the Muslim Link print edition in the mail, send $5 for shipping and handling per issue ($60 for the year) using check or money order payable to: The Muslim Link, 5301 Edgewood Road, College Park MD 20740. To make payments over the phone using a credit card, call the Muslim Link ofﬁce at 301-982-1020. Subscribe to the online version of the newspaper so you get it in your email inbox FREE each issue. To subscribe for free, go to muslimlinkpaper.com. ATTENTION INMATES:

As much as we would like to, we are unable to honor requests for free subscriptions at this time.

marketplace The Muslim Link

Coupons

PHD SALON BARBER SHOP 216 Main Street, Laurel, MD 20707

301-604-6980 Mon - Fri 10am to 7pm; Sat 10am to 6pm; Sun 10am to 5pm

$10 WITH THIS COUPON, (REGULAR HAIR CUT) We Cut All Types of Hair! Exp. Date: December. 31, 2010 brought to you by��Musl mL nk

DR. AFOLABI HAKEEM MARTINS, DDS 301-599-1119 & 301-770-2800

BLEACHING SPECIAL UPPER & LOWER ARCH $250 We do cleaning, exams, root canals, ﬁllings, crowns, dentures, bleaching

Locations in Rockville, MD and Upper Marlboro, MD to serve you.

Professional Services

Health LITTLE RIVER CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

DR. RAMIN AFZALY, D.C., 703-941-4464

6601 LITTLE RIVER TURNPIKE, SUITE 310, ALEXANDRIA, VA 22312

FREE CONSULTATION, FREE EXAMINATION (For new patients only)

Auto accident? Sports or work-related injury? We offer comprehensive imaging studies and rehabilitation

Exp. Date: June. 30, 2010 brought to you by��Musl mL nk

KHAN EL KHALILI The Largest Islamic Department Store on the East Coast

20% off

All Designer Abayas 5826-A Seminary Road, Falls Church, VA 22041 Ph: 703-671-1286

Restaurant

MOHAMMAD TAE KWON DO

CONTINUED SALAAH TIMES | |

Your Guide to Products and Services for Your Muslim Lifestyle

Clothing & Accessories

RAHMA’S SHOP A Taste of Dubai in the USA for all occasions

2 WEEKS OF LESSONS FREE! ANY PROGRAM!

5% off on most items

classes offered: Little Dragons, Juniors, Brothers, Sisters Only”

NEW ARRIVALS

www.MOHTKD.com Exp. Date: July. 4, 2010

TEL: 240.305.6354/301.989.9231, FAX 301.384.2975 Exp. Date: August. 1, 2010

brought to you by��Musl mL nk

PLACE YOUR COUPON HERE

Call 301-982-1020

email us:

ofﬁce@muslimlinkpaper.com

Exp. Date: July. 1, 2010

Exp. Date: June. 30, 2010 brought to you by��Musl mL nk

brought to you by��Musl mL nk

• When you place a print ad with us in Main or Marketplace you can request a FREE coupon in each issue your ad runs. • For businesses not currently in the paper, coupons are just $10 each issue, paid in advance. • All coupons are one size (approximately half the size of an 1/8 page ad) and are text-only, no images. • You tell us the deal you are offering, and the expiration date • The section will be promoted on the front page of the newspaper, directing readers to the actual coupon page inside. Now is the time to take advantage of this great advertising savings. Drop us an email at ads@muslsimlinkpaper.com, or give us a call at 301-982-1020 to get in on it today!

VOLUNTEER TO DISTRIBUTE THE MUSLIM LINK IN YOUR AREA If you would like to earn blessings from Allah and help the Muslim Link, consider helping us with our distribution. To learn more, email ofﬁce@muslimlinkpaper.com or call 301-982-1020

MP - Clothing, Groceris, Events & Activities | 21

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

GRAND OPENING!!! Farmers Market and Bazaar

�� Parking lot of 1519 Islamic Way 4th St. NW Masjid Muhammad SATURDAYS, 10AM - 4PM For vending registration, advertising, or more information contact Nailah 443-938-7788 or Email nduvert@hotmail.com

��

Ask About Our New Family Savings Plan !

��

Email: GarbGallery@msn.com

��

�� www.GarbGallery.com

22 | MP - Professional Services, Legal Services

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

Now serving Frederick, Hagerstown and Eastern Shore, MD

Join The Muslim Link Facebook page for national news and community news updates. Search â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Muslim Linkâ&#x20AC;? 30 Days and Nights to Reach Your Customers Advertise in the Upcoming Muslim Link Ramadan Calendar. Call 301-982-1020 to reserve your spot

MP - Healthcare, Tax & Finance | 23

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

��

24 | MP - Tax & Finance, Travel

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

��

�� MBA, CPA, EA

��Enrolled to practice before Federal and State Tax Authorities

��Accredited Business Advisor ��Certiﬁed Internal Auditor ��Certiﬁed Senior Advisor

For all your Personal, Business, Tax, & Financial needs �� College Park Location: 4920 Niagara Road, Suite 216 College Park, Maryland 20740 Tel: (301) 345-5727 Fax: (301) 3t45-5525 Email: eidcpa@comcast.net Website: www.eidcpa.com

Columbia Location: * 6108 Morning Calm Way Columbia, MD 21045 Tel/Fax: (410) 799-8393 *Evening and weekend appointments available

�� www.IdealAccountingSolution.com

Mohammad Al-Suqi

Cell: 703-861-1625 Ofﬁce: 703-752-3929 Fax: 703-914-0869 Email: Talsuqi@aol.com Address: 916 W. Broad St., Suite 203, Falls Church, VA 22046 Quality Service - LOW COST! Serving the Community since 1991

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

MP - Dining Out | 25

26 | MP - Advertisement

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

MP - Classifieds | 27

June 4th - June 17th , 2010

Place a personal classiﬁed ad. Call us at 301-982-1020

$1 per 3 words. You may place a classified on muslimlinkpaper.com free of charge. All classifieds run 3 issues in the marketplace section. To place a classified, email office@muslimlinkpaper.com with the exact text of the classified, and send a check or money order payable to the Muslim Link to: The Muslim Link, 5301 Edgewood Rd, College Park MD 20740.

CHILDCARE EXCHANGE

________________________________

LIVE-IN NANNY Seeking a loving and caring live-in nanny to care for a 4 year old and a two year old. Responsibilities include: child care, cleaning and cooking. Driver’s license desired and a clean driving record a must. Our home is located in Rockville, Md and we are metro accessible. Please contact MSB at (301)926-4264 if interested.

ILLUSTRATOR WANTED Children Book Author seeking creative Artist for Children Books. Please contact Zubair at 202-419-9356 or zubbusiness@gmail.com

EMPLOYMENT PROGRAMER WANTED Looking for a C++/C#/.NET Developer with 2-4 years experience for fulltime remote work. Email navmed@gmail. com ________________________________ OFFICE MANAGER Office Manager for local Construction Management Company in Greenbelt, MD. Must have excellent communication and organizational skills. Must be proficient in Microsoft Office programs including Outlook, Word and Excel. Salary negotiable based on experience/ capabilities. Email CV/Resume to cmclp@mail.com Starting at $10-$12/Hr.

MATRIMONIAL BROTHER SEEKING WIFE Gentleman, 57, from Iran, no children. Non-smoker, taxi driver. Seeking Muslim lady for marriage. For more information call Ali from 7am to 7pm, 7 days a week. 202-669-5699. ________________________________ SEEKING MUSLIMA Incarcerated Sunni Muslim seeks Muslima for marriage. Serious inquiries contact: David Ginwright, 228332 N.B.C.I., 14100 McMullen Hwy S.W., Cumberland, MD 21502. ________________________________ SEEKING SALAFI SISTER Incarcerated Salaﬁ Muslim (28) in search of Sunni/Salaﬁ sister for marriage with good family values. Contact Tavon Sands, #310580, N.B.C.I. McMullen Hwy, S.W., Cumberland, MD 21502 ________________________________

SEEKING FAMILY MINDED MUSLIMA As Salaamu Alaykum Muslima. New to the deen and seeking a family minded Muslima who will stand by her man in the deen. Currently incarcerated, but only have 3 years to go. Send letters to: Octavius D. Mosley 1115849, A.C.C., 1821 Estaline Valley Rd., Craigsville, VA 24430.

MISCELLANEOUS BROTHER ON DEATH ROW WANTS TO CORRESPOND Muslim Brother on Death Row seeks corresponding to ﬁll the loneliness of being locked in a cell 22-24 hours a day, with 10 hours of yard. Contact: Robert Talib Douglas AY 3357, Box 244, Graterford, PA 19426.

RENTAL 1 BEDROOM APT TO SHARE 1 bedroom apt available to share (Female Only) in Arlington. Rent: $475 Close to Courthouse Metro. Free parking available. Please call 202-341-7326. ________________________________

BEAUTIFUL 1 BEDROOM Beautiful 1 bedroom, big living room, complete private unit for Female Only. Close to everything in Lorton. 703-3374647

SERVICES HANDYMAN AVAILABLE Assalamu’alaykum! My name is Varga Syahroni. I am an experienced technician in D.C. and Maryland. I offer service and repair for cooling, heating, plumbing, refrigerator, dish washers, dryer machines and much more. Call me for reliable service! Free estimates (301) 792-1004 or email varga_syahroni@yahoo.com ________________________________ WE ARE HERE TO HELP FAMILIES IN NEED Family Home Health Agency provides professional personal care and companionship services for senior citizens. We also provide customized care and help with daily living tasks for disabled and injured individuals of any age. Our experienced caregivers provide up to 24 hour service in the comfort of your own home. We accept Medicaid and private pay. Call Family Home Care Services Inc. at 703-933-2223.