The Muslim Link - November 26, 2010

g African-American Youth Attracted to Islam, But Reasons Vary PG 7

Thul Hijjah 20, 1431 - Muharram 3, 1432 A.H. | www.MuslimLinkPaper.com

Developing Khushoo’ In Prayer: Don’t Turn Away PG 12

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

November 26th, 2010 - December 9th, 2010

Passport Seizures By US Customs Still Myster y for VA Hajjis

By Arif Faridi

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

ISB Relief Container Leaves for Pakistan | pg 4

Muslim Link Contributing Writer Alarm over the possible profiling of Muslims was raised this Hajj season when 17 Virginia residents planning to make the pilgrimage to Makkah did not receive a package containing their passports and visas in time to catch their flight for Saudi Arabia.

The imam of Manassas, Virginia’s Dar Alnoor masjid expected to receive the package for himself and community members going with him for Hajj from >> PASSPORT Pg 8

Dedicated Dad Bikes 75 Miles for Al-Huda School

By Muslim Link Staff Like most all schools in America, Al-Huda School in College Park, Maryland is underfunded. So, when this year ’s kindergarten girls class needed funds to set-up a reading corner, the homeroom teacher appealed directly to the parents.

One parent, “Brother AbdurRashid” whose daughter is in the class, was eager to contribute. His financial

constraints were a major roadblock, but his desire to help meet the needs of the class gave him an idea.

>> BIKES Pg 6

Muslim Youth Not Motivated to Vote This Election | pg 7 Online Counseling Forum Planned for Youth | pg 8 Forum Introduces Imams to Community | pg 10 GwynnOak Pours Foundation for Masjid | pg 11

He would simply ride around, and over, and through those financial roadblocks.

Abdur-Rashid decided what he didn’t have in financial resources, he had in health, time, and motivation. So, he

MCC Hosts Rev Who Helped End Qur’an Burning| pg 5

ADAMS Takes Step To Major Masjid Expansion | pg 11 Brother Abdur-Rashid with his bike and mini-trailer with which he pulled about 100 pounds of books from Alexandria VA to Al-Huda School in College Park. Photo courtesy of Brother Abdur-Rashid.

The Muslim Link

Coupons PG 19

2 |

ADVERTISEMENT

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

CORRECTION

In our story on the 25th Anniversary Weekend Conference for Muslimat Al-Nissaa (“Shameless Lack of Support for Homeless Muslimahs Shows At Conference”, in the October 22, 2010 issue of the Muslim Link), we mistakenly reported that Muslimat Al-Nisaa was the only homeless shelter for Muslim women in the community. In fact, there are three homeless Muslim womens shelters that we know of in the region, all in the Baltimore area: Muslimat Al-Nisaa, Al-Mumtahinah, and Women’s Affairs of Al-Mumtahinah. We regret the error.

Mujtaba Yahya, DDS Amer Sheikh, DDS Your family dentists

Access Dental Care caring for your comfort

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

INDEX |

3

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 04

Community News

12

Islam

15

Salaah Times

19

Marketplace

4 |

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

COMMUNITY NEWS

Community News ISB Relief Container Leaves for Pakistan

By Rana Khan

Muslim Link Staff Writer In response to the floods that devastated many regions of Pakistan in August, 2010, Zia-ul-Ummat Foundation of North America, a local organization that has been conducting various Islamic education programs in Maryland over the past 7 years, undertook a series of efforts to raise funds and appeal for donations for food, clothing and other necessities from the Maryland community.

The first phase of this effort involved collecting monetary donations from the ISB community in August, which were then distributed between three charitable organizations in Pakistan for assistance of the flood victims; the Eidhi Foundation, Al-Khidmat Foundation and Al-Mustafa Welfare Society. Ziaul-Ummat Foundation then held a fundraising dinner at ISB on October 2, 2010, in which many more donations were received. Appeals were also made for food, medicine, warm clothing, blankets and shoes. Hafiz Habibullah, an organizer who has been serving Zia-ul-Ummat Foundation for a number of years says the response of the community to the appeals has been very generous.

Habibullah says one businessman in Maryland who owns a shoe store, Abdul-

Majeed Chaudhry, donated 100 cartons, each containing 25 pairs, of shoes of all sizes from 4 to 10. Chuadhry had just received the new shipment of shoes from China for his store and when he was made aware of the appeal, he committed to donate all of it for the flood victims.

Another businessman, Shahid Jameel, who is involved with export work was able to get a donation of three 40 ft containers from the National Shipping Company of Saudi Arabia (NSCSA), says Habibullah.

One of these containers arrived at ISB on Friday, November 5, 2010 and was placed in the masjid parking lot as donations for the requested items continued to come in over the next two weeks. Habibullah says they also received a truck-load of blankets from Gaithersburg.

The container left ISB on November 20, 2010 and was shipped from Baltimore Port to the port of Karachi, says Habibullah. In Pakistan, it will be received by Al-Mustafa Welfare Society, which has previously had a health and education focus but, due to the demands for assistance after the floods, has also taken on handling relief efforts. Habibullah says Haji Mohammed Hanif Tayyib, president of the Karachi Memon Organization, will personally oversee the collection and distribution of the aid to the victims. Habibullah expressed confidence in the reliability of the organization saying that all operations

ADVERTISERS INDEX

The container filled with clothing, canned and bottled goods, and other relief supplies leaves the ISB for the port of Baltimore on a flatbed truck. Photo courtesy of Omar Smith. were conducted under “direct supervision” of the organization and that it was a “neat, clean and clear distribution with no third party involved”.

Another effort initiated by Zia-ul-Ummat Foundation is a housing project overseen

by Mohammad Ameen-ul-Hasanat, chairman of the foundation in Pakistan.

This project involves providing a home for the flood victims at a cost of $1500, which would cover the construction

>> PAKISTAN Pg 14

To Advertise Call 301.982.1020

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES Islamic Garb Gallery | 20 Rahma’s Shop | 20 Tuleen Shop | 20

FAZ Creative Education | 22 islamiconlineuniversity.com | 14 MCC - Arabic Language Center | 9 MiddleEastBooks.com | 3

Access Dental | 3 East Gate Orthodontics | 21 Grove Dental Clinic | 24 Little River Chiropractic Clinic | 21

DINING OUT Pizza 786 | 22 Pizza Roma | 22

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES Ali Khan Islamic Center | 6 Global Deaf Muslim | 5 Gratitude | 3 & 12

LEGAL SERVICES Ismail Laher | 21 Melvin Bilal | 21 Wani & Associates | 3

HEALTH CARE

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

EDUCATION Dar-us-Salaam Qur’an Institute | 3

cost of building one house with one bedroom, a kitchen and a bathroom.

The goal, according to Habibullah, is to construct 40 houses in two villages along the Sindh-Punjab border in Pakistan.

To date, the construction of 20 houses has been sponsored by ISB community members and another 20 houses have been sponsored by community members

PHD Salon | 20 Salon Samina | 20 Sanjar Media LLC | 22 REAL ESTATE Muslim Ali | 21 -----------------------------------------------------------------To place and ad with the Muslim Link, Call 301.982.1020 or email us at office@muslimlinkpaper.com

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

COMMUNITY NEWS |

5

MCC Hosts Reverend Who Told Pastor Not to Burn Qur’ans Written by Syed Junaid Hassan

Muslim Link Contributing Writer This past September, the planned Qur’an Burning Day was poised to increase tensions and misunderstanding between Muslimaround the world and other faith groups. When the event was called off, Muslims around the world, and especially in the United States, finally exhaled a collective deep breath.

What many don’t know is that Florida Pastor Terry Jones was dissuaded by members of his own faith. One of them, Reverend Partick Mahoney, was the guest speaker at the Muslim Community Center in Silver Spring, Maryland on November 7, 2010.

Part of MCC’s weekly Sunday lecture series, the interfaith event featured Reverend Mahoney and close associates and was called “Building bridges of trust and friendship.” The program saw the heaviest attendance of any of MCC’s regular Sunday lectures and included talks

by Rev. Mahoney, Rev. Rob Shank, Clint Can Zandt (Ret. FBI), Rev. Mahoney’s brother Terry, and his associate Josh Conrad. A question and answer session followed with the audience that drew attention to the Cordoba Initiative as well as overcoming communication gaps between the faith-based communities in America.

Reverend Mahoney was hailed by many as a hero for being part of a premature end to the “International Burn a Qur’an Day” that was organized by Pastor Terry Jones of Gainesville, Florida to coincide with this year’s 9/11 anniversary. Rev. Mahoney along with Clint Van Zandt, Rev. Rob Shank and others met with Pastor Jones, ultimately convincing him to avoid a pending uproar from the international community. Soon thereafter, they were handed 225 Qur’ans, all of which they ultimately gifted to churches.

Rev. Mahoney pointed out in his talk that American Christian leaders unequivocally condemned the burning of the Qur’ans, and though he was credited for picking

MCC Board Member Zafer Mirza introduces Reverend Partick Mahoney (seated) who helped cancel the Qur’an Burning Day at a special Sunday Adult Lecture Series event. Photo by the author. them up, he was only echoing millions of Christians.

Rev. Mahoney is no stranger to controversy himself, being the head of the Christian Defense Coalition, viewed as a right wing faith group, and in 2008 he called Barack Obama the “abortion president”.

Following an introduction by host and MCC trustee Zaffer Mirza, a moment of silence was held in memory of the 58 people who recently died in attacks on a Catholic church in Baghdad by militants.

Then, the chairman of MCC’s board, Arshad Qureshi, presented a plaque to Rev. Mahoney in acknowledgment of his work with the American Muslim community. He spoke briefly, stating, “We have gathered here today because we all believe in common Judeo-Christian and Islamic values.” He mentioned the incident of Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu ‘alyhi wa sallam) granting a charter of privileges to the monks of St. Catherine Monastery near Mount Sinai in 628 CE. Penned within were guidelines for Muslims in dealing with Christians including the preservation of their liberty and property while under Islamic rule.

After his formal introduction, Rev. Patrick Mahoney related his group’s efforts to resolve misunderstanding in the Christian community about Muslims, including his travels through the Islamic world. He recalled the hospitality he received there, as well as the promise of partnership that was sadly unnoticed due to miscommunication.

“We have more in common with our Muslim friends than even we have with some among the Christian community,” he said, adding that there were many Islamic values such as marriage, the sanctity of life, and family that are shared with the Christian community. He then spoke of how his journey began with his concern for Iraq in 2002. He felt that God tugged on his heart that something had to be done. In a bid to help end the violence in Baghdad, Rev. Mahoney wished to visit Baghdad. Finally, in the summer of 2007, Rev. Mahoney visited Iraq upon PM Maliki’s invitation despite initial resistance from the State Department. He stated also, “God has put a great burden on my heart and a love for the Muslim people that has only grown over the past years.”

Rev. Mahoney emphatically spoke of his dream for the Muslims in the US. “As a Muslim you should be able to walk through any store or airport and not be looked at with distrust or bitterness,” he said. To get there, he elaborated, the Muslims needed to understand a few facts, being naïve to which, he later stated, was simply not helpful. Prior to 9/11, America was largely ignorant of Islam due to a lack of dialogue between the Christian and Muslim communities. Rev. Mahoney explained that for the two faith groups “their only experience was through the

>> MCC Pg 9

6 |

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

COMMUNITY NEWS

Dedicated Dad Bikes 75 Miles for Al-Huda School BIKES >> continued from pg 1 planned a one-man bike-marathon to raise the money for the reading corner, which was estimated to cost around $700.

Contacting Lakeshore Learning, an educational resource store in Alexandria, Virginia, Abdur-Rashid explained his charitable project and secured shipping discounts for whatever materials he would purchase. He would raise funds by biking from Al-Huda School in College Park, Maryland all the way down to Alexandria, Virginia and back – a total distance of about 75 miles. Raising money by getting well-wishers to sponsor each mile of his trip, Abdur-Rashid would pre-purchase materials from Lakeshore Learning, load them into a bike-hitched mini-trailer, and pull them all the way back to Al-Huda School, all in a single day.

Officials at Al-Huda School who learned about the idea wanted to make a big event out of it, but Abdur-Rashid insisted that he do the bike-marathon with little fanfare.

So, on Monday, October 11, 2010, right after praying fajr at Dar-us-Salaam in College Park, with only Al-Huda School’s Principal and the editor of the Muslim Link newspaper as witnesses, AbdurRashid set off around 6:30 AM. Taking his beat-up mountain bike through a Google generated bike route, AbdurRashid avoided highways and busy roads, traveling scenic morning-fog filled bike paths connecting Prince George’s County with DC, he passed the US Capitol and the Potomac River, entering Arlington through Mount Vernon and then into Alexandria. Only stopping for quick bathroom and food breaks, AbdurRashid loaded up his mini-trailer with just under 100 pounds of books while his wife transported over-sized classroom furniture and supplies by car, getting back to Al-Huda School around 2:30pm.

All in all, Abdur-Rashid received $1,468 worth of pledges – some of which hasn’t materialized yet. But, he was excited when he surpassed the $700 mark. “For the cost of some bananas and honey we did alright, Alhumdulillah,” he wrote in an email after the bike-marathon.

“We are novice fundraisers. It was a learning experience. The bike idea was always secondary … the real issue was the ‘wish list’ [for the class]. It struck me that teachers should not need a wish list [because] teachers should have whatever they need to educate our children. I think parents are responsible to meet the needs of teachers and students,” said AbdurRashid. “Even parents whose funds are

limited have faith and health that we can use to help. Do something!” he said.

Abdur-Rashid said though he experienced some soreness in his neck, knees, and numbness in his hands after the long ride, his spirit was strengthened knowing he made a goal and Allah helped him achieve it.

Now, while his daughter’s kindergarten class enjoys a great, resource rich reading area, he is busy planning his next charitable ride.

“This [brother] is an example of a healthy heart in every sense of the word, Insha’Allah,” said a board member of Dar-us-Salaam. “He is an inspiration to all of us.”

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

COMMUNITY NEWS |

7

Muslim Youth Not As Motivated to Vote This Election

By Yaman Shalabi

Muslim Link Staff Writer The 2008 presidential election represented a major change in American politics and according to the American Muslim Task Force, about 89% of Muslims who voted for President Barack Obama helped create the change. For this year’s Midterm Election, the Muslim Link polled about 40 Muslim college students from Maryland and Virginia and the results demonstrate the overall low youth turnout.

Around 22.5% of the students voted in the 2010 Midterm election.

The Tufts University Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, estimated youth voter turnout fell from 23.5% in the 2006 midterm elections to 20.4% in 2010.

that resonated with Muslims.”

“Obama represented a fundamental historic change and symbolically it represented a major change in the politics of America,” said Mahdi Bray, civil and human activist and executive director of the Muslim American Society’s Freedom Foundation. “Many voted for change and wanted to be an instrument of change-Obama had issues

This can be traced back to many reasons. Bray said people have become “disenchanted and disappointed” with the Obama Administration. “The expectations of what Obama was to deliver was just so high,” he said.

People are generally displeased with his performance internationally and domestically. Obama promised to end

However, just two years later Bray says many of today’s Muslim youth are disheartened with the results or lack thereof.

the war in Iraq and Afghanistan, instead more troops have been sent. He promised to close Guantanamo, it’s still open. He promised to help end the corruption in Palestine, instead more settlements are created.

“Muslims are not immune from the economic downturn,” said Bray, “some are graduating and can’t find jobs.” He also said that college finances are a “big issue” for the youth. “College issues are a no-brainer to Muslims and nonMuslims.” >> ELECTION Pg 18

African-American Youth Attracted to Islam, But Reasons Var y

By Amalia Ehrmann

Muslim Link Contributing Writer The greater Washington DC and Baltimore metropolita area is experiencing an increase in the number of people who are converting to Islam, particularly among African American youth.

Despite the on-going “war on terror”, and the rise of “Islamaphobia,” young Americans are finding Islam attractive.

Edison Hoston, a 27-year-old convert of two years, said it is a question of “fad or divine decree.” Hoston said people are too quick to say that the black teenagers who want to be Muslim are simply following a trend.

It is becoming more common to see young black males attend school, wearing traditional Muslim garments, such as kufis and thobes. These students did not wear such garments previously. Some people believe these students seek a Muslim identity for fashion purposes. To many students, it is viewed as cool to wear such clothing.

“Now they all want to grow beards,” said Nadia Omar, a Somali Muslim. “I don’t know how it became so stylish.”

However, many of the young converts have other reasons as to why they are turning to Islam.

“They want to feel like they are a part of a group…sometimes they lack self-esteem,”

said Brittany Floidel, an eleventh grader at Dunbar Senior High School in Baltimore City. Floidel, whose family practices the Muslim faith, explained how some of her peers are after a sense of protection when they convert. Muslims greatly embrace brotherhood and therefore look out for each other.

Lauren McKinzey, a history teacher at Dunbar, said she also believes it is because of camaraderie. She observed that some of her students lack male role models in their lives. “Some see it as an organized gang,” McKinzey said.

Muslim leaders are often in the streets and in schools educating people about their religion. Twelfth grader Jerome Proctor said this outreach is another reason why the youth are finding interest in Islam.

Proctor said Muslim speakers recently visited Dunbar “to give knowledge” to the students. “I wasn’t forced to convert, I believe in the Islamic faith,” he said.

“There’s no pretending, you’re either a believer or you’re not.”

A majority of the teenagers this reporter spoke to do want to live by the word of Allah, the Muslim God. “If they actually do take the time to learn Islam, it will be good for them,” stated Hoston. He said most of them are attracted to the concept of divine decree, which is a Muslim belief that everything in life happens because of God. “When they

Thousands of African-American youth came into Islam after reading the biography of Malcolm X or watching Spike Lee’s 1992 film on the life of the famous Muslim American revolutionary. become Muslim, they become more respectful and have good manners,” Hoston said.

Tahira White, a tenth grade English teacher at Ballou Senior High School in Washington DC, observed more and more of her male students dressed in Muslim wear and leaving class to pray. She said these students come from families with Christian backgrounds. They leave class on Fridays to participate in Jumu’ah (lit: Friday), a congregational service including a sermon and a prayer that Muslims believe rids participants of

their sins from that week. “I’m not sure if these students completely understand the Muslim religion,” White said. “But I do think that they are searching to belong and be a part of something larger than themselves.”

White and Hoston agree that converting to Islam will help these students stray away from the negative environments they are exposed to. White said many of her students are surrounded by violence and live in bad neighborhoods. “If it helps to guide them, then I think it’s a really good thing,” said White.

8 |

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

COMMUNITY NEWS

Passport Seizures By US Customs Still Myster y for VA Hajjis PASSPORT >> continued from pg 1 a California travel agency by Tuesday, Nov. 2. The package had been shipped overnight via United Parcel Service.

“When the package did not arrive by Thursday, the imam contacted me” Rafi Uddin Ahmed, Vice President of the Muslim Association of Virginia (parent organization of the masjid), told The Muslim Link. “He thought that maybe one of the government agencies may be involved.”

UPS originally claimed the package was lost, but on the morning of Friday Nov. 5, the day of the flight, the company admitted it was being held by a government agency whose identity UPS would not disclose.

With time running out and no choice but to do their own investigation, Ahmed recalled how he and associates checked with various government agencies to no avail. “We started out contacting [the] FBI, Homeland Security and [the]

Department of Justice…all of them saying they did not have the package”.

On Friday afternoon, UPS finally revealed that Customs and Border Protection had the package. CBP released the hold on the package upon contact with the Manassas masjid community, but the hajjis missed their flight.

The package arrived Saturday afternoon, a day after the hold was released. However, Saudi Airlines would not give the hajjis reimbursements or reschedule their missed flights. After many calls back and forth, Ahmed said CBP agreed to pay for new tickets to Saudi Arabia and Saudi Airlines honored the hajjis’ return tickets.

The group left for Hajj Monday, Nov 8.

The Hajjis were on an emotional roller coaster as the incident, with its ups and downs of uncertainty followed by hope followed by yet more uncertainty, was unfolding. “They were very upset, there were people crying,” said Ahmed. The belated pilgrims planned to stay a few extra days to make up for lost time and so were not available for comment when this report was filed. But a disappointed

family member told The Muslim Link that UPS “wasn’t straight”, that their “story changed” and that they “weren’t honest”.

The Council on American Islamic Relations reported three other hajj packages being sent from California travel agencies to Minnesota, Seattle, and within California through UPS which were similarly held up by government seizure or security stops.

The question as to why the packages were withheld remained unanswered. Customs and Border Protection spokesman Lloyd Easterling would not comment on the cases directly. Ibrahim Hooper of the Council on American Islamic Relations told The Muslim Link that his organization was still waiting to hear from the government about what prompted the seizures.

UPS’s role in the matter as well as the legality of such seizures by businesses or government is still under debate.

According to an Associated Press report, UPS spokeswoman Lynnette McIntire would not comment on whether her

company actually calls on CBP to check packages. The Washington Post quoted McIntire as saying “we cooperate with government agencies on security matters.”

“Under what regulations and by what legal right was UPS able to intercept and apparently open these packages and turn them over to Customs and Border Patrol?

It’s our understanding that even a letter sent in the U.S. mail cannot be opened without a warrant from a judge,” asked Hooper. CAIR asked for an investigation into the affair by the Department of Homeland Security.

The incident raised the issue of whether the normal, day-to-day dealings of Muslims are monitored by businesses and government. “It obviously sends a chill through the community that somehow doing the ordinary business of mailing packages and getting visas and these kinds of things is now enough to be singled out by security personnel” observed Hooper .

Planned Online Counseling Forum for Youth Will Address Social, Mental Health Issues

By Yaman Shalabi

Muslim Link Staff Writer Muslim-American youth have long been facing serious mental and social issues, but because of the stigma that befalls those who discuss their problems, it is not really apparent how much the younger generation is suffering.

The work from a recent graduate of George Washington University will help Muslim-American youths to freely and comfortably discuss their problems with Muslim leaders and health professionals through an online discussion called the Nur Youth Forum.

Saud Inam graduated in May 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in international affairs and religion. A few years ago he counseled two Muslim youths, one a victim of rape and the other a victim of sexual abuse from a family member, when he realized how important it was to overcome the stigma and find a way to help the youth

discuss the issues they were facing.

“It was a very eye-opening experience for me and I saw the inability to discuss their issues and seek help due to the stigma,” he said.

He initiated the project early 2008 but it did not launch until May of 2010 in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Inam plans to spread the forum to include people from other cities across the U.S. once they are fully prepared and organized. Although it has taken about two years, said Inam, to unfold, the project is well underway.

“I’ve been blessed to have great advisors from the DC Metro area to help me develop the idea and give me support with it.”

The forum is a two-fold project first creating a network for Imams and Muslim health professionals to come together and address issues ranging from drug abuse to rape using their medical and religious

knowledge. This will provide accessibility for the youth to communicate their problems, said Inam. The Nur Youth Forum will also hold seminars and lectures, with panel discussions, to educate the Muslim-American community about issues facing the youth. The second part of the project is still in its developmental phase but will allow the youth to post their problems and questions anonymously online that will be answered by trained volunteer counselors who have consulted health professionals from the Nur Youth board members.

“What’s unfortunate is that most of these kids have no one in their families to talk to and we are often the first ones they turn to for help, hence the need for an organization like the Nur Youth Forum,” he said. “We have many organizations that work on larger issues but organizations that deal with issues such as identity and mental health of our youth are underfunded and go unrecognized due to the unfortunate apathy to these issues in our communities.

So my hope is this organization will go a long way in reaching out to our youth and tackling the issues they are facing.”

The forum currently includes “a handful of individuals” said Inam, that range from imams, health professionals, psychologists and undergraduate students. Imam Makhdoom Zia of the Mustafa Center in Annandale, Va., is serving as one of the board members for the Nur Youth Forum. He believes it is necessary to create a place for the youth to comfortably speak their minds and seek help with any problems they may have.

Inam said he is constantly seeking ways to better the idea and to ensure there is a “solid foundation before the forum officially is open to the youth.”

“We are not at the stage of serving the community as of yet,” said Inam. “We are currently in what I call Phase I in which >> COUNSELING Pg 15

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

COMMUNITY NEWS |

9

Muslim Metro Riders Say Smile Is Best Response to Terror Fears

By Yaman Shalabi

are perceived, she doesn’t know what it is, she said.

First it was the attack on the Twin Towers in 2001. Then the 2009 shootings at Fort Hood in Texas. Now, Farooque Ahmed, 34, of Ashburn, Va. was arrested Oct. 27, 2010 for helping to plan an attack on the Washington DC metrorail system.

Parise Henry, 23,a UMD senior always thought she was overanalyzing, thinking people would stare and not want to sit next to her. She was wrong. After hearing about the attempt at bombing the metro, Henry now is afraid to pass the Pentagon, which is often a stop on her way to school,

Muslim Link Staff Writer

carrying her bags for fear that she may be stopped for suspicion of criminal acts.

“I guess the best solution is a smile,” she said, “and making eye contact. But I don’t know if anything can be done.

It’s frustrating to go out of your way to assure people. I guess you have to just act normal.”

Huda believes the media focuses on incidents like these and is highly critical

just because they are Muslims. But she questions their motives. Other than making it more difficult for Islam and its people, she asks, has committing such acts accomplished the goals intended? Or did it only just get attention?

“It goes down to knowledge and not being ignorant,” said Saif. “People fear things they don’t know.”

“It’s unfortunate,” said Huda Ibrahim, 20, a Georgetown University student, “because Islam preaches peace. It contradicts what we believe in.”

Many Muslim metro riders have become saddened by how Islam is being portrayed in the media, and rather than have other metro riders fear them, they believe the best solution is a simple smile.

Fuad Saif, 20, a senior at the University of Maryland recalls no one wanting to sit next to a Muslim woman on the metro until a pregnant lady had no choice. “It was the only seat open,” he said.

The Muslim Community Center (MCC) 15200 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20905

Invites all to

THE ARABIC LANGUAGE CENTER SEMESTER STARTS: January 15th 2011

“Muslims are doing a lot already and they shouldn’t have to go out of their way to prove we are not going to kill people,” said Hanifah Dasti, 19, a junior at UMD. “Smiling is a solution that could stop the fear.” She said merely saying hi to people helps them realize that Muslims are human beings too.

REGISTRATION: IN-PERSON: Saturday, January 8th, 10:30AM-12:00PM ONLINE: http://mccmd.org/education/arabic

A George Mason University student, Sana Khalil, 19, is frustrated by the current situation. And if there is anything Muslims can do to change the way they

PROGRAM GOAL: Upon completion of this course (approx. 9 semesters), that student will reach a level of skills that will allow meaningful communication in spoken and written Arabic, as well as comprehension of Arabic texts, including the Al-Qur’an.

More information at http://mccmd.org/education/arabic

MCC

>> continued from pg 5 lens of that tragedy,” and that “Americans aren’t [inherently] racist, they simply have a very narrow view of the Islamic community.”

All the speakers stated the importance of reaching out by both Muslims and Christians, in particular that both had to defend each others values in the public forum. Rev. Rob Shank reached out to the Muslim community by stating that if anyone was subjected to oppression of any kind, “let us know and we will stand shoulder to shoulder with you.”

PLACEMENT TEST—FOR NEW STUDENTS: Saturday, January 8th, 12:00PM- 1:00PM

CLASS INFORMATION: Classes will be held every Saturday and Sunday for 2 hours each day between 8AM and 10AM. TUITION: $300 per semester plus $50 registration fee Instructors Wanted: The MCC is adding to its panel of quali������������������������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� �����������������������������������������

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

10 | COMMUNITY NEWS

Forum Introduces Area Imams to Community

By Muslim Link Staff The Islamic Research and Humanitarian Services Center (IRHSCA) in Capitol Heights, Maryland held a weekend Eid Al-Adha program Friday, November 19 through Saturday, November 20, 2010, culminating in a unique forum for community members to learn about Imams from the local area.

The Imams Forum, which took place on the final evening of the program, followed a youth mentoring program and a women’s program and was organized as an “opportunity for [the community] to meet local leadership” and to bring area communities closer together by establishing closer relations between their imams, according to Talib AbdulSamad, Executive Director of IRHSCA and moderator of the Imam’s Forum.

Although most imams from Washington DC, Prince George’s County, and Montgomery County were invited, due to scheduling issues only four attended the forum: IRHSCA Imam Abdul-Rahman Yaki, Imam Muhammad Abdullahi of the Muslim Community Center in Silver Spring, Imam AbdulAlim Musa of Masjid Al-Islam in Washington DC, and Imam Safi Khan of the Dar-us-Salaam community in College Park.

About 30-40 community members, mostly

from IRHSCA, listened as each imam spoke briefly about their personal history, and then described their communities, including its mission and activities.

Imam Safi Khan described his journey to Islamic work starting in the 1970s in Washington DC. He said a turning point for him came when he went abroad to learn the Arabic language and study Islam.

“Before I learned Arabic, [interacting with] the Qur’an was like reading a book [and] after I learned Arabic, it was like watching a 3D movie,” said Imam Safi, stressing to the audience the need to learn Arabic and the fundamentals of Islam.

He said the mission of the community he leads is “in one word – da’wa”, and that Al-Huda School, medical clinic, grocery store, and various other projects of Dar-us-Salaam were established to showcase Islam in action, provide an environment where Muslims can practice their religion, and a place non-Muslims can learn about Islam through interacting with it in practice.

The next presenter was Imam Musa who spoke about his reversion to Islam, coming from a life where he established the first African-American cocaine cartel between South America and the United States. He said as he learned more about how the US government oppressed the AfricanAmerican community and other groups around the world, he saw a contradiction in selling drugs to African-Americans and

ISWA Dinner Donation Largest in 5 Years The Islamic Society of the Washington Area (ISWA) gave out 100 turkeys on November 23, 2010, the largest dinner donation to needy families it has given out during its five years running the program.

According to Imam Faizul Khan, ISWA asked its community members to give them names of needy families – coworker, neighbors, or other acquaintances

– and ISWA contacted them to see if they would be willing to come to the masjid and pick up the turkeys, complete with bread, drinks, stuffing, pies, and canned goods. Most of the recipients were nonMuslim families. Imam Faizul said the turkeys were donated by an “independent agency”. Families came between 4pm and 7:30pm from as far as Washington DC and Gaithersburg to pick up the donated dinners.

About 40 people attended the Imam’s Forum at IRHSCA. From top, Talib Abdussamad, Imam Abdurrahman Yaki, Imam Muhammad Abdullahi, Imam Abdul Alim Musa, and Imam Safi Khan. Photo by Muslim Link staff. fighting against oppression. He founded Masjid Al-Islam in California and later moved its headquarters to South East Washington DC. Imam Musa said their mission it to build institutions like the masjid, school, and businesses, and establish “geographical integrity” so Muslims can live close together. Imam Musa, who has a reputation for speaking bluntly about the wrongs of the US government, said the IRHSCA forum was his first invitation to speak by any area masjid. He said his community is boycotted by every other local community because the Islamic work in the US is “controlled by the Israelies and the Americans”. He was emphatic that Islam

should be represented by “a black face” because it is no longer possible for America to oppress black Americans. The Imam, who said a large part of his mission is to fight against the “psychological warefare” being waged against American Muslims, also said Masjid Al-Islam controls $15 million worth of real estate.

“We are [financially] independent and everyone hates that,” he said.

IRHSCA’s Imam Yaki spoke next, also emphasizing the need to learn Arabic and how doing so doesn’t “arabize” Muslims. A chaplain for the last 9 years >> IMAM Pg 15

To Advertise in the Muslim Link Call

301-982-1020 or Email us at

office@ muslimlinkpaper.com

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

V

COMMUNITY NEWS | 11

Gwynn Oak Pours Foundation for New Masjid

By Muslim Link Staff On September 13, 2009, the Gwynn Oak Muslim community in Baltimore broke ground for what they said would be the “first masjid built from the ground up in the city of Baltimore”.

On Thursday, November 18, 2010, the masjid started coming up as the concrete foundation poured into the dug up ground.

“Our hope is to pray in the new masjid this Ramadhan,” said President of the Board Presley Cason. “Barring some major weather issues, only [a lack of] funds will slow the progress.”

The pouring of the concrete marks the first step in Phase 1 of the plan, involving erecting the supporting columns and shell for what is planned to be a three story masjid and community center. According to Cason, Phase 1 will cost $550,000, of which about $200,000 has been collected.

It can take up to 30 days for the concrete to dry. Phase 2 involves building the first floor and obtaining a use and occupancy permit so the community – numbering about 400 Muslims who live in the immediate neighborhood – can being using the masjid for worship services.

For more information or to donate, visit isgoak.org.

Workers pour concrete into the dug out foundation of the new Gywnn Oak masjid.

Photo by Captain Muhammad.

ADAMS Takes Step To Major Masjid Expansion

By Yaman Shalabi

Muslim Link Staff Writer The All Dulles Area Muslim Society hosted its annual fundraiser Saturday November 13, 2010. All proceeds gathered at the event will be used for the expansion of ADAMS main branch in Sterling, Va. “This has been happening every year since 1987,” said Wael AlKhairo, chairman of the Masjid Expansion and Funding Committee. “It’s a great opportunity for the community to get together.”

A total of about 600 people showed up to the fundraiser, said AlKhairo, which was within the usual range of attendees.

About $125,000 was donated Saturday.

“It’s a little below our usual average which usually is about $200,000, but our community donates to several other organizations and I think it’s a good result,” said AlKhairo.

Funding for this project began about two to three years ago and is still looking up to a couple more years before it is completed, depending on donations. “This is a continuous campaign. The sooner we finish the better,” said AlKhairo, “but realistically we are looking to at least another three to five more years before it’s completed.”

“W are looking to create a full-time sanctuary,” said Rizwan Jaka, chairman

An artists rendering of the completed ADAMS masjid. At left is the existing multi-purpose center which ADAMS currently uses as the masjid. Photo courtesy of ADAMS. of the Interfaith Committee.

The money will be going to architectural and engineering work. Not until all drawings and plans are finalized, can ADAMS start the physical expansion.

The event started around four with light appetizers which was followed by Maghrib prayer. For entertainment, a talent show full of nashids and poems was presented after dinner.

Khalid Latif, New York University’s

chaplain was invited to be the keynote speaker. A brief update on the center was given followed by a presentation on the project. The event was brought to a close

by Comedian, Mohammed Amer.

According to its website, ADAMS is one of the largest Muslim mosques in the DC Area that serves over 5000 families.

With nine branches in Virginia and D.C. ADAMS engages in regular interfaith, government relations, social services, and community service.

“Our top priority is to build the Masjid,” said AlKhairo.

“Our community is very generous and very supportive of all ADAMS Projects and activities,” said Jaka.

After six months, ADAMS will be hosting another fundraiser to help start an Endowment, said Jaka. It will be used to help run the center.

vzz 12 | ISLAM

Islam

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

Developing Khushoo’ In Prayer: Don’t Turn Away

By Sheikh Muhammad Al-Munajjidv Source: Islam-qa.com Ibn al-Qayyim (may Allaah have mercy on him) said, explaining the difference between the khushoo’ of true faith and the khushoo’ of hypocrisy: “The khushoo’ of true faith is when the heart feels aware and humble before the greatness and glory of Allaah, and is filled with awe, fear and shyness, so that the heart is utterly humbled before Allaah and broken, as it were, with fear, shyness, love and the recognition of the blessings of Allaah and its own sins.”

Khushoo’ is a serious, major issue, which is impossible to achieve without the help of Allaah. Being deprived of khushoo’ is nothing short of a calamity. Hence the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to say in his du’aa’: “Allaahumma innee a’oodhu bika min qalbin laa yakhsha’… (O Allaah, I seek refuge with You from a heart that has no khushoo’…).” (Reported by al-Tirmidhi, 5/485, no. 3482; Saheeh Sunan alTirmidhi, 2769).

Those who have khushoo’ are of varying levels or degrees. Khushoo’ is an action of the heart that may increase and decrease.

Some people have khushoo’ as great as the clouds of the sky, and others may finish their prayer without having understood anything at all.

“When it comes to prayer, people are of five levels: The first is the level of the one who wrongs himself and is negligent. He does not do wudoo’ properly, or pray at the right time or make sure he does all the necessary parts of prayer.

The second is one who observes the outward essentials of prayer, prays on time and does wudoo’, but he has lost the battle against his own self and is overwhelmed with waswaas.

The third is one who observes the outward essentials of prayer, prays on time and does wudoo’, and also strives against his own self and against waswaas, but he is preoccupied with his struggle against his

Him. That waswaas and those thoughts diminish, and the barriers between him and his Lord are lifted. The difference between the prayer of this person and the prayer of anyone is else is greater than the difference between heaven and earth.

Allaah continues to turn towards His slave whilst he is praying, so long as he does not turn away, but if he turns away, [Allaah] turns away from him. enemy (i.e. the Shaytaan), lest he steal from his prayer, so he is engaged in salaah and jihaad at the same time.

The fourth is one who when he stands up to pray, he fulfils all the requirements of the prayer, and his heart is fully focused and alert lest he omit anything, and his concern is to do the prayer properly and perfectly. His heart is deeply immersed in his prayer and worship of his Lord.

When this person prays, he is preoccupied with his Lord and content with Him. The first type is punishable; the second is accountable; the third is striving so he is not counted as a sinner; the fourth is rewarded and the fifth is drawn close to his Lord, because he is one of those for whom prayer is a source of joy. Whoever finds their joy in prayer in this life, will find their joy in being close to Allaah in

Two people may be in one congregation, but the dif ference in virtue between them is as great as the distance between heaven and earth. One of them is turning with all his heart towards Allaah, whilst the other is negligent and forgetful.

The fifth is one who does all of that, but he takes his heart and places it before his Lord, looking at his Lord with his heart and focusing on Him, filled with love and adoration, as if he is actually seeing

the Hereafter, and will also find his joy in Allaah in this world. Whoever finds his joy in Allaah will be content with everything, and whoever does not find his joy in Allaah, will be destroyed by his feelings of grief and regret for worldly

matters.” (al-Waabil al-Sayib, p. 40).

Finally, we ask Allaah to make us among those who have khushoo’ and to accept our repentance. May He reward with good all those who helped to prepare this book and may He benefit all those who read it; Aameen. All praise be to Allaah, Lord of the Worlds.

Turning Away from Prayer Abu Dharr (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘Allaah continues to turn towards His slave whilst he is praying, so long as he does not turn away, but if he turns away, [Allaah] turns away from him.” (Reported by Abu Dawood, no.

909; Saheeh Abi Dawood).

Turning away during prayer is of two types: (1) The turning away of the heart to something other than Allaah and (2) The turning away of the eyes.

Both of them are not allowed, and are detrimental to the reward for the prayer.

The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was asked about turning away during prayer, and he said: “It is something that Shaytaan steals from a person’s prayer.” (Reported by al-Bukhaari, Kitaab al-Adhaan, Baab al-Iltifaat fi’l-Salaah).

The one who turns away with his heart or his eyes during prayer is like a man who is called by the ruler and made to stand before him, and when the ruler starts to address him, he turns away, looking to the right and the left, not listening to what the ruler is saying and not understanding a word of it, because his heart and mind are elsewhere. What does this man think the ruler will do to him?

>> KHUSHOO Pg 14

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

ADVERTISEMENT | 13

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

14 | ISLAM KHUSHOO

>> continued from pg 12

The least that he deserves is that when he leaves the ruler, he is hated and no longer valued. One who prays like this is not equal to one who prays with the proper presence of mind, turning to Allaah in his prayer in such a way that he feels the greatness of the One before Whom he is standing, and he is filled with fear and submission; he feels too shy before his Lord to turn to anyone else or to turn away.

PAKISTAN

As for turning away for a genuine reason, this is OK. Abu Dawood reported that Sahl ibn al-Hanzaliyyah said: “We started praying – Salaat al-Subh (Fajr) – and the to respond to Habibullah’s request for assistance with overseeing the packaging aspect of the project.

>> continued from pg 4 from Virginia, says Habibullah.

One of the most prominent volunteers in this effort, says Habibullah, was Eric Fischer, a non-Muslim with about 6 years experience in packaging and shipping through his work as an import-export broker between buyers and sellers.

A Baltimore native and son of Earny Fischer, a wrestler who represented U.S.A. in the 1956 Olympics and was inducted in the National Olympic Hall of Fame, and a good friend of Habibullah’s for a number of years, Fischer was glad

Write to us!

The difference between their prayers is as Hassaan ibn ‘Atiyah said: “The two men may be in one congregation, but the difference in virtue between them is as great as the distance between heaven and earth. One of them is turning with all his heart towards Allaah, whilst the other is negligent and forgetful.” (Al-Waabil alSayib by Ibn al-Qayyim, Daar al-Bayaan, p. 36).

“The project needed some kind of organization because people were leaving things in bags, “ says Fischer. “It (the packing) has to be done in a methodical way - you cant just throw bags and boxes in the container.” Fischer said he had to build a “retaining wall” inside the container and had to ensure that all the boxes were taped properly and were strong enough to withstand an estimated couple of weeks of journey on the water. It was also important to make sure that they were packed securely and compactly to ensure a safe and undamaged arrival.

Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was looking at the ravine.” Abu Dawood said: “He had sent a horseman at night to guard the ravine.”

This is like when he carried Umaamah bint Abi’l-‘Aas, and when he opened the door for ‘Aa’ishah, and when he came down from the minbar whilst praying in order to teach them, and when he stepped back during Salaat al-Kusoof (prayer at the time of an eclipse), and when he grabbed and strangled the Shaytaan when he wanted to interrupt his prayer. He also ordered that snakes and scorpions should be killed even during prayer, and a person

who is praying should stop and even fight one who wants to pass in front of him whilst he is praying. He told women to clap during prayer [if they spot a mistake on the part of the imaam], and he used to wave or gesture to people who greeted him whilst he was praying. These and other actions may be done in cases of necessity, but if there is no necessity, then they are just idle gestures that cancel out khushoo’ and are therefore not allowed during prayer. (Majmoo’ al-Fataawa, 22/559).

Fischer, along with Habilbullah and his son, would arrive at ISB every evening for the two weeks that the container was there to organize the donations into boxes and haul and place them into the container.

“Everybody who saw us (working) helped,” says Fischer. Habibullah says Fischer’s dedicated spirit of volunteerism is something for others to aspire to.

Fischer says the most difficult day was the first day that the container arrived, as they had to pack about 600 boxes at one time. Thereafter, the donations trickled in over the next few weeks. Even close to the time of the container’s departure, a donation of 150 crates of water was made and this, too, had to be packed into the container, says Fischer.

The estimated value of the container, according to Fischer, is $50,000 and he estimates that 1000 boxes were shipped. There are two other, similarlysized containers that will also need to be filled in the future, thereby needing approximately 2000 more boxes of donations. Fischer was keen to point out that more donations would continue to be needed from the community as these two other containers arrive. He says he will also be overseeing those projects and is looking forward to assisting with them, stressing that his effort “wasn’t so much of a sacrifice”, and that he was “pleased to help Habibullah”.

Stop venting at dinner parties and in masjid parking lots. Cool down, get your points together, and send us a letter to the

editor or post a comment online.

REACH US AT editor@muslimlinkpaper.com or http://www.muslimlinkpaper.com

SALAAH TIMES | 15

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

Salaah times for November 26th - December 9th, 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

COUNSELING

>> continued from pg 8 we’re building the foundation of the forum.” This phase includes gathering the resources of the DC Metro Area MuslimAmerican community, organizing and IMAM

>> continued from pg 10 and currently working in New York, the Imam travels back and forth and runs the educational and counseling programs at IRHSCA. He said IRHSCA’s model is to begin reform “with the self, then move to the family, then to the community, and

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

Date 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Hijri 20/12 21/12 22/12 23/12 24/12 25/12 26/12 27/12 28/12 29/12 30/12 1/1 2/1 3/1

Fajr 5:46 5:46 5:47 5:48 5:49 5:50 5:50 5:52 5:52 5:53 5:54 5:55 5:56 5:56

Sunrise 7:02 7:03 7:04 7:05 7:06 7:07 7:07 7:09 7:10 7:11 7:12 7:13 7:14 7:14

Dhuhr 11:56 11:56 11:57 11:57 11:57 11:58 11:58 11:58 11:59 11:59 12:00 12:00 12:01 12:01

Asr 2:29 2:29 2:29 2:28 2:28 2:28 2:28 2:28 2:28 2:28 2:28 2:28 2:28 2:28

Maghrib 4:48 4:48 4:48 4:47 4:47 4:47 4:47 4:47 4:46 4:46 4:46 4:46 4:46 4:46

Isha 6:06 6:06 6:06 6:06 6:05 6:05 6:05 6:05 6:05 6:05 6:05 6:05 6:05 6:05

Prayer times generated from www.islamicfinder.com for the WASHINGTON, DC area.

compiling the information into a central database, he said, which will include contact information of imams, mental health professionals, and organizations that do similar work.

The Nur Youth Forum members have created a Facebook page with all the then to the larger ummah.” He also said the Muslim community needs to focus inwards for change instead of blaming external forces for the weaknesses of the Muslim community.

Imam Muhammad Abdullahi also emphasized education, and said imams need to be empowered with the freedom and resources to engage in educating the community. “We know we need

necessary information about the project.

They are currently reaching out to people through the internet and through wordof-mouth. They hope in the near future to create a promotional video that will explain what the Forum is about.

Inam is still trying to reach out to imams, educational institutions and [places] to educate [Islamic scholars], but most people [in the area] aren’t seeing this as important,” said the imam, who immigrated from Somalia in the early 1990s.

A question and answer period followed the remarks by the imams, with some pointed questions directed at Imam Musa regarding his emphasis on politics

professionals, and volunteers who would be willing to help stabilize the foundation.

“This is not about credit or status, it’s about helping the community and I don’t want to lose our youth. If we don’t nip this in the bud now, then we will be facing more serious issues.”

and speaking against Zionism and imperialism. Audience members also raised questions on the barriers between the African-American Muslim community and the immigrant Muslim community; the audience was overwhelmingly African-American.

For an audio recording of the Imam’s forum, view this report at www. muslimlinkpaper.com.

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

16 | MASJID LOCATOR

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

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.

BADR COMMUNITY CENTER OF DUMFRIES (BCCD) 17794 Main Street Dumfries, VA 22026 Tel: 703-585-1689, 703-5547983 www.bccd.org E-mail: info@bccd.org 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.

DAR AL-NOOR (MUSLIM ASSOC. OF VA): 5404 Hoadly Rd., Manassas, VA 20112, Tel: 703-580-0808, Fax: 703221-8513, 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

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.

Tel: 703-922-0111, www.darulhuda.org DAR-US-SALAAM: 5301 Edgewood Rd. College Park, MD 20740, Tel: 301-982-9848, www.darussalaam.org.

FIRST HIJRA MUSLIM COMM. CENTER: 4324 Georgia Ave, NW Washington, DC 20011 www.firsthijrah.org.

ICNA VA CENTER: 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.

IRHSCA (ISLAMIC RESEARCH AND HUM. SERVICES CENTER OF AMERICA): Chambers Ave, Capitol Heights, MD Tel: 301-324-5040, www.irhsca.org.

ISLAMIC CENTER OF MARYLAND (ICM): 19411 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

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

ISLAMIC HERITAGE CENTER (IHC): 262 A-3 Cedar Ln., Vienna, VA 22180 Tel: 703-206-9056.

DAR-UL HUDA: 6666 Commerce St., Springfield, VA 22150,

ISLAMIC SOC. OF ANNAPOLIS (ISA): 2635 Riva RdSuite 110

Annapolis, MD 21401 Tel: 410-266-6660 www.isamd.org, Email: info@islamannapolis.org

MASJID AL-GHURABAA: 8220 Washington St., South, Laurel, MD 20724.

Tel: 301-604-3295.

ISLAMIC SOC. OF FREDERICK (ISF): 1250 Key Parkway , Frederick,MD 21702 Tel: 301-682-6090, www.isfmd.org.

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

ISLAMIC SOCIETY OF GERMANTOWN (ISG): 19900 Brandermill Rd., Germantown, MD 20876 Tel: (240)-277-7758, 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: 240 603 4618 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: 2001 Galludet St. NE, Washington, DC 20002 Tel: 202-529-3100.

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

MAKKAH LEARNING CENTER (MLC): 814 Brandy Farms Ln Gambrills, MD 21054 Tel: 410-721-5880 www.isamd. org, Email: info@mlcmd.org MANASSAS MOSQUE: 12950 Center Entrance Ct, Manassas, VA Tel: 703-257-5537.

MASJID UL-HAQ: 514 Islamic Way (Wilson St. ), Baltimore, MD 21217 Tel: 410-728-1363.

MASJID AL-ISLAM: 4603 Benning Rd., SE, Washington, DC 20019 e-mail: imammusa@hotmail.com MASJID AL-INSHIRAH: 7832 Fairbrook Road , Windsor Mill, MD 21244 Tel: 410-298-2977, Fax: 410298-0266, 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. 410-891-8451 MASJID MUHAMMAD: 1519 4th St. NW, Washington D.C. 20001 Tel: 202-483-8832.

MASJID AN-NUR: 5418 Ebenezer Road, White Marsh, MD 21162 Tel: 410-663-9637, Fax: 410-663-9817.

MASJID AL-RAHMAH/ISB: 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: 11600 Falls Road, Potomac MD 20854 www.medinacenter.net MUSLIM COM. CENTER (MCC): 15200 New Hampshire Ave. Silver Spring, MD 20905 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.

RANDALLSTOWN ISLAMIC CENTER 9019 Marcella Ave. Randallstown, MD 21133 Tel: 410 971 4018 www.ricbaltimore.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

November 26th - December 9th, 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)” ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

11-15-10 Funeral Prayers were held for Br Pervez Aslam in mid November 2010 in Baltimore, Maryland. Please remember him and his family in your Duaa. (Source: Al Falaah) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

11-14-10 Brother Maswood Ahmed went to Allah SWT. Innailahe Wa Innailahe Raziwoon. His Janaza prayer was in mid November 2010 in Sterling, Virginia. Please make dua for the family. (Source: ADAMS) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

To Advertise in the Muslim Link Call

301-982-1020

OBITS & UPCOMING EVENTS | 17

Upcoming Events In Your Area PGMA Fundraising Dinner and Auction Friday, November 26 2010, 6:30am - 9:30pm

Prince George’s Muslim Association (PGMA) Will hold a special community fundraising dinner and auction featuring Sheikh Okasha Hassan. The honor of your presence will be highly appreciated. Please join us for this very special event. Location: Prince Georges Muslim Association Main Hall; 9150 Lanham-Severn Road, Lanham, MD 20706 Contact: 301-459-4942; pgmamd.org ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Personality-Based Parenting Workshop Saturday, November 27 2010, 9:00am - 4:30pm

Islamic Center of Maryland & Muslim American Society Maryland Chapter Present An Interactive Workshop on “Personality-Based Parenting” With Duaa Haggag (Silent Sunlight Professional Counseling) Saturday November 27, 2010 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM ICM Library Fees: $25 per person, $10 per child for babysitting, Lunch will be provided. Online Registration: http://www.masmd.org/event-registration Ever noticed how one parenting strategy may work perfectly with one child but be obsolete with another? This workshop provides an understanding of the different ways our children interpret the world around them and the different languages they speak. Using their personalities as a base, this workshop provides a myriad of strategies and techniques to raising healthy and inspired children. Parents will come out of the workshop with a better understanding of positive parenting and a creative repertoire of tools that will help them inspire all kinds of children.

Location: Islamic Center of Maryland Contact: 240-505-9155 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Full Day Youth Project Management Sunday, December 05 2010, 9:00am - 5:00pm

“Youth Project Management” Sunday Dec 5th, 2010 Boys / Girls Ages 12 – 17 This program is offered to youth who wish to develop project management and leadership skills. It is a mix of presentation, team activities, project development assignments, offsite projects with area Islamic institutions inshaa Allah (SWT). ILIA is training youth on principles of project management on Dec 5th, participants in the program will have the opportunity to join a team of youth who will act as project managers assisting a Muslim social service, religious or educational organization with planning and managing small projects. Location: Ellicott City, Maryland Contact: http://ypmdc2010.eventbrite.com/. http://ypmdc2010.eventbrite.com/ http:// www.islamicleadership.org ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dar-us-Salaam/Al Huda School Family Time Management Seminar Saturday, December 11 2010, 10:30am - 12:30pm

Dar-us-Salaam / Al Huda School. Family Time Management Seminar. Do you want to enrich your family experience? Do you want to spend more time with your family? Happy and successful families don’t happen over night! Family time management can enhance the quality of your family time. In our Family time management workshop we will discuss the basics and the skills of time management. Bring some of your concerns written so that we can try to address it. Finally, do you know that if you take care of your family you are pleasing Allah. Taught by Dr Husein Afeefy.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Global Deaf Muslim Dinner in Metro D.C. Saturday, December 11 2010, 6:00pm - 10:00pm

Ever wondered how Deaf Muslims access Islam and the teachings of The Holy Qur’an?

Did you know that despite the advancements of the North American Muslim community, the Holy Qur’an has yet to be translated into ASL (American Sign Language)? Do you know how many converts to Islam are Deaf and cannot access The Holy Qur’an? To find the answers to the questions above, please mark your calendar for the Global Deaf Muslim fundraising dinner at the Herndon Community Center in Herndon, VA. With your help, GDM will raise funds for projects like the key vital initiative: The Qur’an in ASL Video Project so Deaf and Hard of Hearing Muslims and Non-Muslims can have access to.

To purchase tickets please go to: http://globaldeafmuslim.ticketleap.com/quranfordeafva/ The event details are as follows: Theme: Quran for the Deaf. Keynote Speakers: Dr. Muhammad Yahya Alvi, Dr. Daoud Nassimi, Brother Joshua Salaam, and ISNA President & ADAMS Imam Magid (Tentative). Please visit our website at www.globaldeafmuslim. org to learn more about GDM. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

18 | 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

ELECTION >> continued from pg 7

Ahmad Rana, 18, a computer science freshman at University of Maryland College Park believes people should exercise their right to vote. “There are issues that affect me to help me stay in school.”

Bray also believes, although Muslim political engagement has been growing, it is “not on par with other communities.”

Hanaa Garad is a 20-year-old student at George Mason University in Arlington, Va. She did not vote in the 2010 Midterm Elections.

“I didn’t vote because I didn’t feel like I had enough information about the candidates,” she said. “I’m sure it was available, I just didn’t go out of my way to look for it. I knew who the candidates

were and some of the issues, but not enough to make a substantial decision.”

Midterm elections are never as big, said Bray. “People have a tendency to vote in the electoral elections and they don’t understand that sometimes the local is more important.”

Although this notion is prevailing among people, Bray is encouraging people to stop this trend. But he is also encouraging against voting blindly, which many people do.

Muhammed Ibrahim, 20, is a freshman studying electrical engineering at UMD. Ibrahim voted after his dad kept saying it was important. “I didn’t want to,” he said.

“I didn’t know anything until I looked at the ballot.”

However, Ibrahim still believes it’s important to know what’s going on.

Although the number of youths voting

has been declining, it is still encouraging to Bray to hear students say they voted because it is their civic duty.

“If you want to have a say, at least vote,” said Noha Eshera, a junior at UMD. “If you don’t, then don’t complain.” Another student said it was his duty as a citizen and by not voting then your right to make your own decisions is given to other people.

One student said he was fulfilling his civic duty.

“In politics you don’t always win,” said Bray, “But you lose for not being in the game.”

Often times many people think their vote will not matter and Bray says “Muslims who vote can make a difference.”

“Even though we are a minority, there are enough Muslims to still make a difference,” said Bray. “Voting is a tool of empowerment and I encourage people to vote and be a part of the political process.”

To Advertise in the Muslim Link Call

301-982-1020

or Email us at office@muslimlinkpaper.com

Write to us!

Stop venting at dinner parties and in masjid parking lots. Cool down, get your points together, and send us a letter to the editor or post a comment online.

REACH US AT editor@muslimlinkpaper.com or http://www.muslimlinkpaper.com

Subscribe to the Muslim Link!

To get the Muslim Link print edition in the mail, send $5 for shipping and handling per issue 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 offi ce 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 pm; 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

SALON SAMINA 14050 Travilah Rd, Rockville, MD 20850

301-251-4466

SPECIAL:

COLOR & CUT $55 (LONG HAIR EXTRA)

MANI/PEDI $30 Exp. Date: December 31, 2010 brought to you by��Musl mL nk

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

Restaurant

PLACE YOUR COUPON HERE Call 301-982-1020 email us: office@muslimlinkpaper.com

brought to you by��Musl mL nk

PIZZA 786 5209 East Drive, Arbutus East Drive Phone: 410-242-4342 Hours: Monday-Thursday 11AM to 10 PM, Friday & Saturday 11AM-11PM, Sunday 12PM to 10PM

Special “20” Monster cheese Pizza $8.99 (extra topping $1.99) or 18” Monster Sub $12.99 (sea food extra)

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

5% off on most items

NEW ARRIVALS TEL: 240.305.6354/301.989.9231, FAX 301.384.2975 brought to you by��Musl mL nk

BARBER SHOP

Master Barber,25 years experience

1081 West Broad Street, Falls Church, VA 22046

Call (571)641-3200

SPECIAL

$9.99 First Haircut, New client Only After 6 Haircuts, 7th is FREE Must Bring Coupon for Discounts brought to you by��Musl mL nk

WWW.TULEENSHOP.COM 443-283-3484 ayat@tuleenshop.com

SPECIAL

Enjoy free shipping when you spend $50 or more EXP DATE: DEC.31 2010

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@muslimlinkpaper.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

20 | MP - Advertisements

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

Salon Samina

14050 Travilah Rd, Rockville 20850 | 301-251-4466

Our Services • Hair-cuts • Relaxers • Keratin • Color Treatments • Hot Oil Treatments • Perms • Waxing • Threading (by appt )

• Manicure-Pedicure • Henna (by appt) • Facials (by appt) • Massage (by appt) • Kids Haircuts Summer Special $10 (12 and under) • Roller-set

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

MP - ADVERTISEMENT |

21

�������������������������������������������

��������������� �������������������������������������������

����������������� ��������������������������� ���������������������

������������������������ ��������������������������� �����

������������������������������� ��������� ������������������� ��������������

������������������������ ��������� �����������������

www.EastGateOrthodontics.com �������������������������

Now serving Frederick, Hagerstown and Eastern Shore, MD

Ismail LAHER - REAL ESTATE Commercial, Residential & Investments Transactions • Provider of Title Insurance, Real Estate Settlement & Escrow Services.

• Years of experience, reliability and know-how ensure on-time, hassle free, successful real estate transactions.

• Access to multiple Attorneys who can assist you with Deeds, Liens, Easements, Payoffs, Financing Options, 1031 Investments, Starker Exchanges, etc.

Please visit www.Laher.com for details, bio, newsletter signup, etc.

Fax: 202-518-9301 • Email: title@Laher.com • Tel: 202-596-7863

Mr. LAHER thanks YOU for your Business & Referrals!

22 | MP - Advertisements

November 26th - December 9th, 2010

CONVENIENT TO UMBC CAMPUS

Last order taken 15 minutes before clo sing

DINE-IN & CARRY-OUT

42-0891 Tel: 410-242-4342 | Fax: 410-2 pping Center) 5209 East Drive, Arbutus ( East Drive Sho

HOURS: Monday-Thursday 11:00am-10:00pm Friday & Saturday 11:00am-11:00pm Sunday 12:00pm-10:00pm

Our menu includes appetizers, pizza, strombolis, subs, sandwiches, hot dogs, pasta, platters, wraps, salads, wings, and desserts. Come try our HALAL diner! for detailed menu, go to:

.COM

WWW.PIZZA786HALETHROPE.WEBS

STAFF WRITERS WANTED

The Muslim Link newspaper is looking for full and part-time candidates to ďŹ ll upcoming staff writer positions.

The ideal candidates are committed Muslims who have a penchant for good writing, are involved in community work, have a strong work ethic, and believe in establishing Muslim media.

To join our team and start on a job which offers ground breaking opportunities and excitement, send your resume, cover letter, and a writing sample to the editor.

Start your involvement in Muslim media today!

Email editor@muslimlinkpaper.com.

9th, 2010 November 26th - December Classified Ads

23

Place a personal classified ad. Call us at 301-982-1020 We invite you to place a classified on the web FREE of charge at www.muslimlinkpaper.com. Classifieds in the print edition of the Muslim Link newspaper are only $1 for every 3 words. All classifieds run for 3 issues in the Marketplace section. Get started by emailing your exact text to office@muslimlinkpaper.com and then call in your credit card payment to 301-982-1020 or send a check or money order payable to: The Muslim Link, 5301 Edgewood Rd, College Park MD 20740.

CHILDCARE EXCHANGE LICENSED HOME DAYCARE Licensed Home Daycare. Infant and Up. 301-593-4769.

-----------------------------------------------HOME AWAY FROM HOME IN MUSLIM ENVIRONMENT Licensed, operated by a pre-school teacher; Full-time, Part-time, Before and After Care; Weekends and Extended Hours; Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks Provided; Near MCC; Must See & Compare with Others; 301-570-4245 or www.ashtondaycare.com

not including utilities. 240-751-6563.

240-751-6568.

-----------------------------------------------HALAL GROCERY STORE/ MEAT MARKET FOR SALE Asking Price: $115K, Sales: $324K, Net Profit: $60K (Alexandria, VA) Call Lou for additional information 202688-1303 Woodstel Capital Business Brokerage

-----------------------------------------------PLACE AN AD WITH TML

To place an ad in the Muslim Link call us at 301-982-1020 or email us at office@muslimlinkpaper.com

------------------------------------------------

FOR SALE

MISCELLANEOUS

KABOB RESTAURANT FOR SALE IN COLLEGE PARK, MARYLAND Off of Baltimore Ave. Across the street from Starbucks and University of Maryland. The owner is having health problems. $150,000 or best offer. Please call 703-629-8666.

-----------------------------------------------NICE TOWNHOUSE FOR RENT CLOSE TO ICM Townhouse, 5 BR, 3 1/2 BA, Walk out basement. New windows. At Montgomery Village, MD. Rent $1,450

FREE TO GOOD HOME Free to a good home, 2 Yorkie puppies for adoption. If interested, contact me on rbradley987@gmail.com

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 MUSLIM WIFE Seeking Muslim wife who is marriageminded and God fearing. Race, nationality, age unimportant. I’m 36, 5-11”, 180 lbs, handsome, ambitious, affectionate. I’m drug/disease free, nonsmoker. If interested, please contact me with any questions. Frederick Adams #00B2570, Fishkill Correctional Facility, Box 1245, Beacon NY 12508.

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 -----------------------------------------------LOVING HOME CARE CAREGIVER SERVICE Our services are for seniors and loved ones needing in-home assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, walking assistance, meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, medication reminders, transportation

to appointments and grocery shopping.

Also, with our Mother’s Helper service, we provide childcare assistance for moms needing a helping hand. Low Rates-No Deposit. www.lovinghomecare.org CALL: 301-490-1146 ----------------------------------------------HOME SERVICES Licensed contractor. Home Improvement work, interior/exterior painting, drywall install/repair, brick/concrete repair.

License #30385946 Estimates done.

Contact Br. Allen Scott at 410-467-1259 or 443-538-7643(cell) -----------------------------------------------THE FALL IS A GOOD TIME FOR PLANTING We do landscape design, planting trees, shrubs, and flowers, garden maintenance and yard clean up. We do hauling and delivery of large, bulky items for the winter. We take care of your garden without chemicals or pesticides. We serve the Northern VA area and parts of Montgomery County. Evergreen Organic Landscapes, Annandale, VA call 571-277-6241 for a free estimate.

-----------------------------------------------PLACE AN AD WITH TML To place an ad in the Muslim Link call us at 301-982-1020 or email us at office@muslimlinkpaper.com

To Advertise in the Muslim Link Call

301-982-1020

or Email us at office@muslimlinkpaper.com Write to us!

Stop venting at dinner parties and in masjid parking lots. Cool down, get your points together, and send us a letter to the

editor or post a comment online.

REACH US AT editor@muslimlinkpaper.com or http://www.muslimlinkpaper.com

Free Consultation for Ortho and Implant ������������� ��������������� ���������������������� ���������������� �������������� ������������������ ������������������ �������������������������� ������������������ ����������������������� ������������������ ���������������������� ���������������������� ��������������� ���������������������� ������������������� ���������������� ����������������������