NOVEMBER 2013 www.al-sahafa.us

America’s Monthly Middle Eastern Newspaper

A renewed VISION FOR LEBANON …words from the late Gebran Tueni. His message, his words of resilience still echo from the past, and yet so present in their meaning today…

Gebran Tueni; the sole heir of a line of Lebanese journalists Hafez al-Assad of Syria, Tueni published an editorial calling and politicians who had, since the end of the Ottoman Empire, on Syria to withdraw its forces from Lebanon after 24 years, struggled to preserve the unique character of Lebanon in the in the name of keeping its peace. This daring outburst brought region, Tueni had established himself as a fearless, intelligent him to international prominence. and persistent champion of his country’s independence as a tiny but democratic state conscious of its roots in the Crusader Then, in the tragic wake of the assassination on February kingdoms of the Levant in the 12th century, and an even older 14th 2005 (Valentine’s Day) in Beirut, of the former Prime history in ancient Phoenicia. Minister Rafi k Al-Hariri; Gebran Tueni played a central part in mobilizing the public’s demonstration of grief and anger. In A rooster being the logo of his newspaper, An-Nahar, (an May of 2005, he was elected to parliament for the Greek Or- Arabic name which means, "The Morning."). Founded by thodox constituency in Beirut, in alliance with Saad Al-Hariri, Tueni's grandfather in the 1930s, and passed from father to (the late Prime Minister Hariri’s son), and Walid Jumblatt, (the son for three generations, An-Nahar was for Gebran Tueni Druze leader) – and ultimately played one of the leading roles not only a family business, but a vital trust. Seated behind in the democratic ‘March 14 Cedar Revolution’ that swept his grandfather's desk, speaking in fl uent English, French and Lebanon, and which would eventually inspire the rest of the Arabic, he often explained that his aim was to cover the full Arab World into what has now become known as ‘The Arab spectrum of Lebanese news and debate, to give voice to "Mus- Spring’. lims, Christians, leftists, rightists." "We try to have an inde- pendent paper." A huge part of Gebran Tueni’s lifelong vision was connecting with the countless of successful and educated Lebanese out- He and his family also championed communal tolerance in side of Lebanon, to come back and be a part of their homeland. a tragically fractious Lebanese society. His father, Ghassan, He constantly wrote and spoke directly to Lebanese abroad, a Greek Orthodox Christian, married a Druze, the late poet to make the Lebanese in Lebanon accountable for what they Designer Jamal Nadia Hamadeh, when such unions were rare, and his grand- are doing to the country – especially the politicians. This father, also Gebran, had founded the liberal newspaper An-Na- month, Al-Sahafa’s Cover Story includes an eloquently writ- Taslaq; From har in 1933 under the French mandate to inspire the emerging ten article by the late Gebran Tueni himself (written in 2005, a nation with the ideals of the European Enlightenment. Under few months before his assassination). Although it was written Palestine to Italia... their care, the paper had become what many observers regard over 8 years ago, the article we have chosen to re-publish, is as perhaps the only credible daily journal published on Arab ever relevant, as if it was written today. As it confi rms what Bonjourno! soil. Tueni himself managed and edited it for a decade, but a visionary the late Gebran Tueni was, in his ideals and love he had previously been shaped by it, as much as it had been for his country of Lebanon, and to all the Lebanese around the See Pages shaped by his family. world who aspire and hope that one day Lebanon will return to its glory days of being the ‘Paris of the Middle East’. 12-13 In March 2000, in the dying weeks of the former President, See Cover Story Pages: 4-5 “WOW, A TOASTER .”

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November 2013 • Page 2 www.al-sahafa.us EDITOR’S THOUGHTS

never have acquired the skills that got me a make you smile: A favorite hangout, a wooded more fulfi lling job.” trail, an exciting city, a great spot from which to view the sky, a hill that you once rolled down. Don’t focus on what you don’t have. Fo- Give thanks for all these things. cus on what you do have. For example: “I’m Now pass it on. True gratitude involves ac- so fortunate to have a warm place to sleep in tion. Lend a hand. Pitch in. Make a gift. Give the winter.” “I’m so fortunate to live in a safe your time. Listen. Give back as often as you neighborhood where I can take walks.” “I’m so can. Even a friendly greeting can make all the fortunate to be able to see the beauty around difference in the world. Create your own op- The point of Thanksgiving is to remember the me.” portunities for gratitude. Do you know some- things we have to be grateful for. It’s our spe- Think about people you’ve known that have one who never seems happy? Be ready with a cial time to give thanks... not just for the obvi- made you thankful for their existence. They smile and a kind word each time you see them. ous, like the big family Thanksgiving dinner, can be family, friends or simply people that It may require patience, but eventually, they’ll but for the thousands of fortunate moments, the you’ve read about or seen on television. Imag- smile fi rst when they see you. Your interactions multitude of blessings that we receive through- ine how many other people there are who might with them will be much more pleasant. Guess out the year. That’s not always as easy as it be equally as wonderful. You just haven’t met what? You’ll have a new reason to be thankful! sounds. We tend to remember the bad things them yet. Think about people who have made Let others know when they’ve done something much more easily than the good. life hard for you. Now think about the things that you’re thankful for. An attitude of gratitude You can easily make thankfulness an ev- you accomplished because of them. Did you spreads like ripples from a tossed pebble, ben- eryday habit. It’s a skill that will benefi t you fi nish something because they said that you efi ting all it touches. Remember that hard times throughout the year. Begin by keeping a grati- couldn’t? Did you get better at something be- make good times sweeter. Also keep in mind tude journal. Don’t write down negative things; cause they made fun of you when you did it that obstacles and challenges not only make only positive ones. For example, “I’m grate- badly? Did their cruel actions make you vow you stronger, but they force you to explore Publisher; Ms. Fatina Salaheddine ful that I made it through that heavy rush hour never to treat others that way? Even the nega- outside of the comfortable routine that you’ve traffi c safely.” “I’m grateful that I got to see a tive forces in your life can be hidden blessings, settled into. Without challenges, there can be Twitter: @MissFatina beautiful sunset.” “I’m grateful that I have a worthy of your gratitude. Think about the ani- no progress. Without obstacles, there can be no class at school that I really like.” mals that have given you joy: Dogs that love achievement. Be thankful for the opportunities Think of all the good things that happened be- you with every inch of their hearts, cats that that they provide. cause something bad happened fi rst. For exam- think your lap is the best place to nap in the ple, “If that slow driver hadn’t pulled in front of whole world, birds whose songs uplift your Wishing all our readers, a very ‘Thankful’ & me, I would have gotten a speeding ticket.” “If spirit, squirrels whose antics put a grin on your Happy Thanksgiving on Thursday November I hadn’t experienced unemployment, I would face and soon. Think about the places that 28th! Lebanese-American

Al-Sahafa Did you know? Mission Statement Corporate Offi ce MARHABA & WELCOME READERS! Vol. 13 Issue #11 • Al-Sahafa is published every fi rst The Al-Sahafa Newspaper USA is a National publication, written in the English language ©2013-2014 Wednesday of each month. (Exceptions covering topics ranging from Fashion, to Culture, to Food, to Politics, to Exclusive Interviews to this is during the time this offi ce is with World Leaders –all pertaining to the Middle East. closed in the months of July and August). Offi ce Manager This publication has been in production since 2001 – and proudly has received National rec- ognition and credibility in our National Press Offi ces throughout the USA. We started as a Tiffany Kehoe • Distribution takes two days subsequent small staff of Arab Americans with a dream to help spread the news and highlight our Arab to printing in order to reach the familiar viewpoints and tremendously rich culture of our beautiful Middle East. And since 2001, our Graphic Designer staff not only has grown, but has far surpassed its expectation of drawing in opinionated, in- racks/businesses and postal mailings, due Tammy Calhoun terested, invested and well-versed readers and writers alike from all over the world, that have to Al-Sahafa's National distribution. TC Creative Services built, created & developed fascinating monthly Columns & Features in this popular publica- tion. Over the past decade, we have welcomed a plethora of different International ethnic Food for Thought • Deadlines for Advertisements and backgrounds of readers & skilled interested writers to join our growing readership. Through various scholarly programs, this publication has earned an abundance of Intern Students from Columnist Articles to be published in the following monthly issue, fall on the third Friday top U.S. Colleges – giving us immense pride & credibility in working with today’s students Nijma Awadallah and tomorrow’s leaders. of each month. (For Ad Rates or for more information, contact the Al-Sahafa Print is an amazing medium to reach persons across the world, and share with them the per- Fashion & Lifestyle severance of dreams and idealizations that we humans all share. We hope that the information Newspaper offi ce Monday through provided in the monthly issues & on our website, is found to be a useful resource about the vast Columnist Friday, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.). and beautiful Middle East region and its people. Ranna Abedal Raheem *BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY TO OUR READERS: Merging Arab Culture Please stay active with us! We love hearing from you! Please keep your articles, thoughts, & Education Please Join & Get comments, ideas, photos, and posts fi lling our very active FACEBOOK GROUP page: AL- SAHAFA NEWSPAPER USA. For, as a National Publication can only grow with your eager Dr. Mais Khourdaji Interactive with Us: participation and active feedback. www.al-sahafa.us • FACEBOOK GROUP: Al-Sahafa Newspaper USA “I love you when you bow in your mosque, kneel in your temple, & pray in your church. For • TWITTER: @MissFatina you and I are sons of one religion and it is in the spirit.” offi [email protected] - Khalil Gibran (Lebanese-American Poet)

www.al-sahafa.us November 2013 • Page 3 CCoverCoverover StorySStorytory LEBANON’S INDEPENDENCE DAY IS NOV. 17 Addressing Lebanon: Past, Present, Future By Gebran Tueni What really has given this experiment an ugly facade, however, is the manipulation An Nahar Newspaper, Lebanon of the communities by politicians, who have hidden themselves behind sectarian slogans, by they individuals, or grouped Ladies and Gentlemen: in political parties or coalitions. They have It may be a most eloquent manifesta- bent the frames of the system to serve their tion of Lebanon’s pluralistic society that own personal ends instead of the nation’s a Greek Orthodox, in fact a half-Druze welfare. Greek Orthodox, addressing you on what Furthermore, danger does exist. Since the should best be done to navigate our nation 1975 wars emanating from the Arab- Is- out of its political, economic, social and raeli confl ict, the people of Lebanon feel cultural straits. Plurality, or smooth coex- threatened. They are not ready yet to for- istence among numerous communities, is a get the bloody drive to plant a Palestinian national characteristic guaranteeing Leba- mini state within Lebanon, nor Syria’s past non’s survival. And it is not a hollow boast behavior meddling to set off fi res and then that Lebanon stands unique in the world, pose as the saving extinguisher, never for- as the nation that has brilliantly promoted getting her old dream of Greater Syria or its communitarian structure into a vi- able the conspiracy of trading the Golan Heights system of government, despite the 75-77 for Lebanon. civil war, closely followed by a conspiracy under which others, Palestinians, Syrians, Ladies and Gentlemen, Israelis, Americans, Iraqis and Iranians, I have come here not to ask you to return fought their wars on Lebanese soil. Claims tomorrow to the homeland, but I am con- that the 1943 national pact, which laid the vinced that one day you’ll do it. I realize Mr. Gebran Tueni foundations of healthy coexistence for 50 this is diffi cult, at least at the present con- decades, was the catalyst of inter-com- ditions. But we have to invent a new rela- I am convinced that we have among our mother country’s affairs, I propose that a munal wars, are untrue. Communities or tionship between the Lebanese at home and new generations plenty of qualifi ed people senate be created in which emigrants can rather their interaction, he been a source of in Diaspora, to try to put the nation back capable of laying the foundations for a new be represented. I also propose the creation enrichment to the Lebanese system of gov- on its own two feet: Free, Sovereign and Lebanon. They must not rely on the old set of an Emigration Ministry, fully indepen- ernment, which is the only working democ- Independent. Let us recall that the Irish of politicians, but they have to organize dent from the Ministry of Foreign affairs. racy in the Arab world. Through harmoni- emigrating community to the United States them- selves and launch the drive, to defi ne I would further propose that more than one ous evolution, Lebanon has given itself a was largely credited for the liberation the future and determine Lebanon’s role cabinet State Minister is empowered to post- independence democratic constitu- movement that struggled at home, to win in the Middle East and elsewhere in the cope with emigrants affairs. They must be tion which, despite its heavy leaning on the freedom from Britain. world. They have to dream, Yes, I insist, to directed to maintain constant dealings with French model, has success- fully combined DREAM of the nation they want, and fi ght our extra territorial communities, instead of a set of civil status laws, that helped the Times have defi nitely changed since, and for the achievement of that dream. They occasional or seasonal interaction. smooth conduct of the civil affairs of each the means nowadays are different. But we must never surrender to despair, because as Ladies and Gentlemen, community under the tutelage of its own MUST have a vision, a master plan, within author Karl Jaspers once said: “Despair is clergy. the framework of which an orchestrated en- an anticipated defeat!” I am optimistic about Lebanon’s future deavor can be launched by all of us to begin despite the suffocating economic and po- As things stand now in Lebanon, the Leb- the march towards Lebanon’s resurrection. Emigrants should be ferociously encour- litical crises it suffers, and despite the mass anese does need the clergy to defend his It is lamentable that no such plan or master aged to take back their role as full- fl edged exodus of the youth. We still have enor- rights, since politicians and political par- plan is available to either loyalist or oppo- Lebanese citizens. They should practice mous potential among qualifi ed emerging ties are looking the other way. Moreover, nents of the exiting regime. their right to citizenship, and must register generations. Lebanon is the only country existing parties are in a state of advanced their families with embassies abroad, to who speaks the 21st century language in bankruptcy. They are totally divorced from A brainstorm is needed, here in the Dias- help conduct a new national census. They the Arab world, and has the spirit of mod- both the present and the future, and are still pora, and there in the homeland. This brain- have to claim their right to vote, and the ern times, of globalization, which champi- embroiled in past confl icts. Jealous about storm should set the paths of new political, government should grant them this right ons public freedoms, private sector, free- their liberty, the various communities that economic, and social projects, and should as we live in an open world where barri- wheeling economy and a World-Wide pres- make up the mosaic fabric of the Lebanese not be limited to a vision, but should be ers have been largely knocked down. Many ence. No country can survive without these Nation, have developed a rich pluralist so- followed by an exhaustive plan to achieve nations allow their communities abroad basics of democracy, which Lebanon has ciety within which, minorities are shielded these goals. There is a dire need, too, for to cast their ballots in polling centers as- practiced long time ago, while other Arab from majority dictatorship. This enriching new political parties with new nationalistic signed by their embassies. France always countries need rehabilitation in taking it up. cooperation has allowed Lebanon to distin- outlooks. There is an equally dire need for does this in Lebanon. guish itself with a refi ned peace full culture the establishment of think tanks and cul- Unfortunately, what is most missing For the similar purpose of getting Di- in the Arab world. tural institutions, which would breed a new today, is confi dence between the people generation of leadership. aspora Lebanese more involved in their and the government. This lack of trust has November 2013 • Page 4 www.al-sahafa.us CCoverCoverover StorySStorytory

Ccver Story, cont’d from page 4 plunged the country in a political and eco- very strict regulations. Unlike certain countries such as for- Based on the points developed earlier, nomic crisis. The whole nation with all its We also must begin a frank and honest mer Yugoslavia or Ireland, all through the I fi rmly believe that Lebanon is the only productive sectors is paralyzed. Because inter-Lebanese dialogue, as well as a Leb- years, the Lebanese Experience has proved country in the Middle East - and why not, confi dence plays a key role to any political anon-Syria dialogue, within a context of that the co- existence between its different in the World - capable of playing a leading or economic recovery, it is urgent for the mutual respect. The Lebanese Syrian dia- communities was very solid despite all the role in the new dialogue of civilizations. government to rebuild this relationship to- logue should be conducted in an effi cient foreign interference. Lebanon today is defi nitely a major play- day, better than tomorrow. and modern manner, from nation to nation, Lebanon’s pluralism must be put into full er on the international political and social chessboard and it is Lebanon’s duty and That’s why we must have a national rec- state to state, not at an individual basis, but upgraded use. Lebanon has succeeded in by put- ting aside all kind of sentimental preserving to each community its specifi c- mission to make it known to the interna- onciliation government, to remedy the po- tional community. litical blunders that have mothered the na- and “parental” ties. ity’s. Our understanding of unity compared tion’s economic hardships. We also must We need a new Lebanon; a Lebanon to a bowl of fruit salad whereby each fruit To end my speech, I would like to quote get a new transitional electoral law, base where “win to win” theory, mutual recogni- keeps its own fl avor while giving the other John F. Kennedy, from his special mes- on the small constancy concept, to bring tion, synergy and complementarily will be a complementary taste and not a blended sage to congress on conservation on May in a more representative parliament. Such the driving force for any undertaken action. single color and taste compote. 3, 1962: a system is of a transitory nature, pending In the wake of September 11, the con- Lebanon has no oil riches, but its emi- “Our deep spiritual confi dence that this the emergence of innovative and mature cept of civilization dialogue is much talked grant communities make up the difference. nation will survive the perils of today - political parties, which prevent the change about across the world. I believe that Leba- Through the involvement of the Lebanese which may well be with us for decades to of democracy into an autocracy or worst non stands as the unique, living example Diaspora in various businesses, social, come - compels to invest in our nations’ fu- a theocracy. These parties must be totally of Christian-Muslim coexistence. Neither cultural and political sectors, its emigrants ture, to consider and meet our ob- ligations liberated from religious slogans because, Christians nor Muslims are intruders in the could play an essential role for the welfare to our children and the numberless genera- if today Allah has a party, nothing guaran- land, but they are both partners in rebuild- of their motherland as they possess all the tions that will follow.” tees that in the future Christ will not have a ing the concrete and the mentalities of their know-how to achieve such a role. Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you. militia of knights fi ghting in his name. As homeland. Ladies and Gentlemen, for their funding, it must be provided under Gebran Tueni

Slow going by UN in probe on murder of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafi q Hariri So why exactly has it all taken so long?

By; Robert Fisk the hunt for four men indicted in 2011 – (London, The Independent) and now Hassan Habib Mehri, the latest The UN donkey clip-clops on. Eight name to be released. But why has it all years after the murder of former Leba- taken so long? One of the biggest prob- nese Prime Minister Rafi q Hariri – sure- lems is that the information obtained ly the longest murder enquiry in the his- by the Lebanese security authorities is tory of the world – the international tri- so immense that it takes years to sift bunal investigating his death has named through. another Hezbollah supporter as a fi fth suspect in the killing. The Lebanese The British, for example, sent the tele- authorities, according to the court, have phone numbers of millions of mobile found that the “security situation” in the calls made in Lebanon on 14 February, southern suburbs of Beirut, after two 2005 – the date of Hariri’s murder – to car bomb explosions, has “impeded” the Lebanese government within days of the killing. These were culled from tre, whose vast domes feature in many exactly a year ago, Brigadier-General the RAF-controlled communications photographs of the Cypriot mountains Wissam al-Hassan, the head of the Leb- centre in Cyprus’s Troodos mountains and form the background to a thousand anese Internal Security Force’s intelli- and included calls made to and from tourist snapshots, has yielded all it can. gence service, was literally liquidated the presidential palace in Beirut; other But ploughing through at least fi ve mil- by a bomb in east Beirut. No wonder numbers included the wives of Hezbol- lion phone calls takes years. This work the wheels of UN justice grind exceed- lah members. was set back by the assassination of the ing slow. most profi cient of the Lebanese army’s The British communications cen- communication’s experts. Then, almost

www.al-sahafa.us November 2013 • Page 5 “My doctor said I might need Baackck SSurgeryurgery whathtt should h ldIdld I ddo?” ?”?”

ello, I’m Dr. Noel Abood, D.C. owner of ing from the inside-out. The best part of this highly pain not only affects the patient, it affects their fam- the Solon Spine and Wellness Center. I researched procedure is that is can be done without ily and loved ones. Many of our patients are no have been in practice since 1984 and have the need for drugs or surgery! longer able to work due to their condition and fi nd workedH extensively with back pain sufferers. In the themselves parked in front of the television, with I was one of the fi rst doctors in North East Ohio to past when patients complained of back and leg pain begin using this procedure. I had the unique op- feelings of hopelessness and despair. Depression due to disc injuries or spinal stenosis it presented a portunity to be trained by Dr. Daniel Puffenberger, is very common since almost everything we do re- challenge, because treatment options were limited, one of the foremost authorities on lumbar decom- volves around our health. these patients were given a prescription for bed pression. Dr. Puffenberger is a brilliant man who When I meet these patients for the fi rst we spend rest, pain killers and muscle relaxers which altered opted to stay not at a hotel but at my home for three about an hour together. I ask that their spouse or their ability to function and or think clearly. Then extensive days of training. He would wake me in loved one attend the consultation to help me get a as a last resort spinal surgery. the middle of the night and we would drive to the better picture of their condition. We review pre- In 2003 I heard about a relatively new procedure clinic because he needed to share something with vious X-rays and MRI’s and I explain what I am available that not only reduced pain but healed me. As a consequence of this training we now have looking for during the exam. I then let the patient damaged spine and disc material; I knew this was fi ve decompression tables and work with disc in- know if I can help them and if so to what extent. something I needed to research. jury patients from around the country. Many of our patients have already gone to multiple The procedure ‘Non Surgical Lumbar Decompres- doctors and if I feel I cannot help them I let them sion’ was founded by a physician in Florida (home “Chronic pain not only affects the know because I don’t want to be one more doctor to fail them . of many retirees and back pain sufferers). Lumbar patient, it affects their family and decompression creates somewhat of an anti-gravity For some people, we may not be able to remove all situation called negative intradiscal pressure within loved ones.” their pain but they can expect to be able to resume the disc. This allows nutrient rich blood to re-enter physical activities such as bicycling, gardening, the injured disc, allowing the disc to begin heal- shopping or sleeping pain-free through the night. Our typical patient has been suffering with back For others, we expect a complete recovery. Each and or leg pain for at least two years or more. The case is different and no two cases get the same pain is daily and limits their ability to sit stand or treatment plan. walk very far. They are typically seen in the gro- If you’re suffering with chronic back or leg pain cery store leaning on their shopping cart, and often and don’t know where to turn or who to trust, I in- walk bent over at the waist. Many of our patients vite you to call our offi ce to see if you can benefi t are currently taking a daily regime of medication from this break-through procedure. just to get through their day. They have had numer- ous X-rays, MRI scans, spinal injections, physical Solon Spine and Wellness Center is located at therapy, back braces and unfortunately still suffer. 6175 S.O.M. Center Road, Suite 140, in Solon Many are waiting until the pain becomes unbear- Ohio. 440-540-5319 www.SolonBackPain.com. able before succumbing to spine surgery. Chronic

November 2013 • Page 6 www.al-sahafa.us THE WORLD IS OUR HOME YOU ARE OUR GUEST

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www.al-sahafa.us November 2013 • Page 7 FoodFooCommunityCdo ForFmomr ThoughtTuhnoituyght hef's Story Presents Sara’sC and Salwa’s Kahk cookies (Egyptian Holiday Cookies) By Nijma Awadallah race across their minds, “they bring a to absorb more powdered sugar. This lot of nostalgia,” says Sara. “It reminds ethnic instrument resembles a staple re- Egyptian poet, Fouad Haddad once us a lot of back home in Egypt and my mover and is used to penetrate the dough said, “Oh Kahk, master of generosity… grandmother making these. It’s very bit- slightly. Many Arab-Americans result to we will never stop making you.” Haddad tersweet.” using common utensils, such as a fork (to was referring to a sweet treat with an an- impress small ridges) or actual tweezers cient pedigree, one that dates back to the The common ritual of Egyptians pre- (to pinch the fl esh of the dough together) time of the pharaohs and ripe with Mid- paring these mouth-watering cookies is when a minash isn’t available. The trick dle Eastern history. Pictures of Egyptians an uninterrupted tradition, usually per- to yielding perfectly golden cookies is a preparing these cookies can be found formed the same way the matriarchs of watchful eye warns Sara, “Getting the adoring the walls of stone temples. the family once did, “My mom grew up timing right for baking them. You really with my grandmother and great grand- have to carefully watch them in the oven “Kahk” (Arabic for biscuit or cookie) is mother making these,” according to Sara. to make sure they don’t get too over- a crumbly cookie often made with yeast “They’ve been passed down from gen- done.” and dusted with powdered sugar. Very eration to generation and they taught her similar to its peanut studded, crème col- how to make them.” The process of making the cookies may ored sister, “Ghorayeba” that’s softer and differ in some ways, especially for con- more delicate in nature. Kahk cookies The women of the family would con- venience sake, “My great grandmother can be enjoyed with different fl avors and vene to the kitchen, each with a task in would make Kahk that required more fi llings such as Agameya (honey-type hand; some knead, some fi ll, some mold time and ingredients because she used fi lling), Turkish delight, dates or simply and decorate the cookies while others yeast in her recipe. Our way is easier, left plain as it is in the recipe shared by would simply sift powdered sugar over faster, and similar in taste,” says Sara. Egyptian mother and daughter, Salwa Ra- the Kahk producing a beautiful win- madan and Sara Abdel-Latif. ter wonderland of delicious cookies; all As for many Arab-Americans who while building memories. carry their countries love on their sleeve It may be the last remaining, “good luck with pride, Sara expresses her concern cookie” Egyptians offer during special “They’re extremely simple to make, and determination to carry on these im- Holiday & Wedding & Engagement oc- you need fi ve ingredients that everyone portant customs, “Learning to cook Ara- casions (noting that the delicious white has in their kitchen already -except for bic dishes helps me in some way hold on sugar, on the cookies represents purity the seasoning, but nowadays it’s easy to to my heritage; it’s defi nitely something I Sa7htain and Happy Eating! and luck for a new bride), gush the moth- fi nd in your local Arabic store,” says Sara. want to be able to share with my children er and daughter duo. These sweet treats “And as simple as they are, they’re just as some day.” Kahk appear on New Year’s table celebrations equally delicious and fi lling; AND addic- and on both Arab-Muslim tables during tive you really can’t stop at just one!” Kahk cookies keep well in the freezer, Kahk Ingredients: the Eid Holidays as well as on Arab- easy to be pulled out when needed. To 1 cup of plain greek yogurt Christian tables during Christmas and A small piece of pastry, perfectly round- serve them, thaw them for a few hours at 2 cups of Crisco Easter. ed and shaped, smoothly melts in your room temperature, and dust with another 4 cups of all purpose fl our mouth like butter. Decorating the cook- coating of powdered sugar. -Enjoy start- 1 teaspoon baking powder While Sara and her mom prepare these ies with a special tool called “minash” ing your own tradition by making these 1 teaspoon “scent of kahk” also known cookies, memories of Cairo begin to (Arabic for chisel) allows the cookies Kahk sugar delights with your family! Chef's Story, cont’d on page 15

November 2013 • Page 8 www.al-sahafa.us EEastEastast MMeetsMeetseets WestWWestest The Saudi Arabian woman revealing all on stage By Sheena McKenzie, for CNN at the end of the day the experiences of women are always connected somehow. Maisah Sobaihi isn’t just lifting the veil And one of the objectives of the play is on the complicated love lives of Saudi to create that strong dialogue for under- Arabian women. She’s smashing down standing.” the door to their homes and inviting you in for a cup of tea. When I meet Sobaihi in the dimly lit dining room of a stately London hotel, When the playwright took her one- she is as serene as the paintings on the woman show to the Edinburgh Fringe wall, yet with the same huge, mischie- last month, she became not just the fi rst vous eyes which bring so much life to Saudi Arabian to perform at the presti- her characters on stage. Later when I gious British arts festival, but the fi rst ask her age, she politely laughs off the to reveal a mysterious world that isn’t question -- despite appearing strikingly as different from the West as you might youthful for a woman with two sons in think. their 20s. Swathed in ornate fabrics and wearing a simple headscarf, the elegant Against the painted backdrop of ram- academic with American accent is any- servative culture and we are very sensi- divorcee there it was still hard,” said So- bling Middle Eastern streets, Sobaihi thing but the stereotypical image of the tive to issues that could be viewed as... baihi. “You have to deal with what soci- takes her audience deep inside the hid- hidden Arab woman. unconventional, so we tread carefully.” ety might think and because men are al- den rooms of Saudi Arabian women, lowed more than one wife, women might playing characters grappling with ques- “Saudi Arabia is mysterious to the West Born in Saudi Arabia, Sobaihi spent fear you too. tions of love, marriage and divorce. because we are very private culture,” she much of her childhood in California, be- said. “And I think it’s our responsibility fore studying for a doctorate in English “There is that perception that it is bet- to tell other women outside our world literature at the University of London. ter to be married. But that is less and about our experiences, to break this mys- Today she is an assistant professor at less now for younger women. There are tery.” King Abdul Aziz University in Jeddah. many who chose to go on scholarships But the deeply conservative kingdom provided by the government -- I think in For Sobaihi, the best way to crack open isn’t always an easy place for a divorced the U.S. we have 80,000 students study- this unknown world is with laughter, us- mother-of-two such as Sobaihi. This is ing.” ing a wry playfulness on stage to explore a nation where women are banned from the most intimate of relationships. driving, and where male guardians grant When asked about the signifi cance of In a nation where men can have more permission for everything from traveling her appearance at Edinburgh, Sobaihi than one wife, one character deals with to opening a bank account. In the 2012 remains modest, smiling broadly as she the prospect of her husband taking a sec- Global Gender Gap Report, Saudi Ara- turns the question on me. “On a personal ond partner, by attempting to dig up dirt bia was ranked fi fth worst for equality of level I’m lucky to be the fi rst,” she says. It’s a rare glimpse into an intensely on her. the 135 countries rated. However some “But I don’t think I’ll be the last.” private world. But since she fi rst started Meanwhile, another character turns her reforms are on the way, with women al- performing “Head over Heels in Saudi back on the traditional notion of love, lowed to enter parliament Arabia” seven years ago, Sobaihi has and a “Saudi prince galloping in on his earlier this year, and set been touched by the huge number of horse.” to get the vote in 2015. women telling her how much they asso- Female director Haifaa ciated with her characters -- regardless “I prefer to take serious things and Al Mansour -- whose fi lm of whether they were from New York or deal with them in a light-hearted way,” “Wadjda” is the country’s Jeddah. said Sobaihi. “I’ve had feedback from fi rst nomination at the people who say it’s enlightening. They 2014 Oscars -- is one of “In the beginning I was really surprised don’t know so much about Arab women an increasing number of to hear that, because I was writing it in in general -- and less so Saudi Arabian “fi rsts” for women in re- Saudi Arabia about myself and other women. So it is an eye-opener.” cent years. women I knew,” said Sobaihi. “But I was also happy because I think “But we cannot deny that we are a con- “When I was living as a

www.al-sahafa.us November 2013 • Page 9 EEntertainmentEntertainmentntertainment NewsNNewsews River Jordan Water Used for Prince George Christening Royal Baby Is Immersed in Holy Land Ritual

London — Britain’s Prince George was river’s waters have often been used to make thor of “A Century of Royal Children”. christened on Wednesday October 23rd us- the sign of the cross on the heads of royal The parents named six friends and Wil- ing water from the Jordan River in a service infants. liam’s cousin Zara Tindall as godparents, attended by just 21 guests, a small and pri- Television pictures gave the public the fi rst breaking with the tradition of choosing vate ceremony for a baby whose parents glimpse of the baby - third-in-line to the mostly royal dignitaries, a decision that con- want to shield him from too much media throne - since his parents carried him out of tinued their effort to portray a more infor- intrusion. the London hospital where he was born on mal, modern image to austerity-hit Britons. Prince William, whose mother Diana was July 22. Kate’s parents, Michael and Carole Mid- hounded by paparazzi and died in a car crash In the arms of his mother as she left the dleton, and her sister Pippa were among in Paris in 1997, and his wife Kate invited palace’s Chapel Royal, George was dressed the guests. A friend of Princess Diana, Julia only very close family and godparents to the in a long cream satin robe that was a replica Samuel, was one of the godmothers along- ceremony in the 16th century St. James’s of an 1841 gown made for the christening of side Kate’s schoolfriend Emilia Jardine- Palace in central London. Queen Victoria’s eldest daughter. Paterson. The infant, who will head the Church of Kate, a style icon whose outfi ts often in- Clarissa Campbell, historian of monarchy their child,” said Maria Scott, 42, draped in England when he becomes king, was chris- crease sales of similar garments, wore an at Anglia Ruskin University, said scaling a British fl ag, who travelled 300 miles (500 tened with water from the River Jordan by off-white, ruffl ed skirt-suit, made by British back the number of royals at events and put- km) from Newcastle in northern England for Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby. fashion house Alexander McQueen, and pill- ting Prince William and Prince Harry at the the day. Palace offi cials box hat by British milliner Jane Taylor. forefront had boosted the royal family’s pop- Media access to the christening was said water from Queen Elizabeth, her husband Prince Phil- ularity that fl agged after Diana’s death and a blocked, with the palace appointing Jason the River Jordan, ip, heir apparent Prince Charles, his wife Ca- several royal marriage breakdowns. Bell, 44, known for his portraits of rock stars where Christians milla, and William’s brother Harry attended “It’s also very much Her Majesty’s wish and Hollywood actors, as the sole offi cial believe Jesus Christ the service in which Archbishop of Canter- that the royal family is not seen as an ex- photographer. was baptized, was bury Justin Welby baptized the prince with pensive institution in these days,” Campbell As well as the christening, Bell was ex- used for the chris- water from the River Jordan. told Reuters. pected to shoot the fi rst portrait of four gen- tening. The site erations of the royal family in more than 100 – eight kilometers “George is being brought up in a world Although the service was held behind years, with the queen and her three direct east of Jericho – is very different from Prince William’s child- closed doors, well-wishers gathered to heirs, Charles, William and George. considered Christi- hood but the royal couple really is obsessed watch guests drive in and out of the palace anity’s third holiest by privacy and I hope that does not impinge commissioned by King Henry VIII. A tier of a cake made for William and too much on their lives,” said Ingrid Seward, site after Bethlehem “We’re dying to see Prince George but I to- Kate’s 2011 wedding was to be served at a editor-in-chief of Majesty magazine and au- and Jerusalem. The tally respect their decision (for privacy). It’s private tea held after the christening. World’s BEST CITIES are in… & so is Beautiful BEIRUT! Condé Nast Traveler announced categories, new hotels and re-ordered and Florence tied for second, while the winners of its 26th annual Read- lists of the world’s best destinations. the very top spot was seized by the ers’ Choice Awards. As they do every The magazine said this year’s list was colonial city of San Miguel de Al- year, this year’s results introduce new the most comprehensive ever, with lende in central Mexico, which took 1.3 million votes cast for a whopping the crown from last year’s favorite 16,000 properties around the world. of Charleston, South Carolina (which MIDDLE EAST TO MAKE IT IN was tied for fi fth this year). Italy THIS YEAR’S RANKING! And de- The “Top 25 Cities in the World” snapped up fi ve of the top 25 cities, spite its slide in the global rankings, list had refreshingly surprising addi- while Spain managed to take three. Charleston was still voted the top city tions and rankings -- Paris came in In at number 20 – (tied with Seville, in the United States for the third year at a lowly 22 while Bruges and Cape Spain) was BEIRUT, LEBANON – in a row, for its “sand, sun, history, Town tied for 11th place. Budapest THE ONLY COUNTRY FROM THE good food and friendly people.”

November 2013 • Page 10 www.al-sahafa.us EEntertainmentEntertainmentntertainment NewsNNewsews Wadih el-Safi , 91, An Wherever Rihanna goes, ‘ICON’ Singer in the controversy is sure to Arab World follow! Associated Press Wherever Rihanna goes, controversy is sure to follow — and Abu Dhabi is no Wadih el-Safi , a Lebanese singer and composer whose exception. The brazen trend-setter made strong and clear voice propelled him to fame throughout a stop at the du Arena on Yas Island in the Arab world, died in Beirut on Friday, October 11th . mid-October, but it wasn’t her show that had people talking; rather a set of pro- He was 91. El Safi ’s health severely deteriorated about this time last year , following a surgery to a broken leg fessional photographs posted to her Ins- El Safi is known to have enriched the Arab music library tagram that day. with outstanding works of art. He is a singer, a composer and considered one of the musical giants in Lebanon and the Arab world. The shots see the singer clad in a con- servative black jumpsuit and head covering, striking high fashion poses outside His fi rst appearance was at the Lebanese song competition in 1938, in which he won the Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre. fi rst place amongst 40 other contestants. Though some found Rihanna’s outfi t tasteful and didn’t take offence to the pho- Having studied at the Beirut National Conserva- tos, others found them to be disrespectful, taking to social media to express their tory of Music, El Safi began composing and per- forming songs that drew upon his rural upbringing frustrations. and love of traditional melodies, blended with an urban sound, and creating a new style of modern- The Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque ized Lebanese folk music. El Safi toured the world, Centre issued a statement in Arabic singing in many languages, including Arabic, clarifying their role in the photo shoot, French, Portuguese and Italian. saying that ‘a prominent singer’ was turned away once she went against the He helped give the Lebanese song its identity by code of conduct. developing folk and country singing, stirring homesickness to country and countryside in expatriates. While the statement did not name El Safi has written over 3000 songs. He is well known for his mawawil (an improvised her specifi cally, it was posted in the singing style) of ‘ataba, mijana, and Abu el Zuluf. He has performed and recorded with wake of Rihanna’s high-profi le visit to many well-known Lebanese musicians, including Najwa Karam, Fairouz, and Sabah. the mosque.

Mr. Safi , whose real name was Wadih Francis, helped spread colloquial Lebanese Arabic In the statement, the centre said that the mosque remains one of the main centers outside his country, becoming known to many Arabs as “the man with the golden voice.” for religion, knowledge and culture within the UAE, and went on to say its doors are always open to visitors from all faiths and backgrounds, be it to appreciate its He was much beloved in Lebanon, which has issued postage stamps bearing his likeness. architectural value or otherwise. “His passing is a loss to the nation and every Lebanese home,” President Michel Suleiman said in a statement; “He embodied the nation through his art.” But while the mosque allows visitors to tour and take photos, they ask them to do The son of a police offi cer, Mr. Safi was born on so in a way that is appropriate, and does not disrespect the religious nature of the Nov. 1, 1921, in the mountain village of Niha. He location. lived in near poverty in the village until his fam- ily moved to Beirut when he was 9. There, he en- According to the statement, the sing- rolled in a Catholic school and began singing with er did not make arrangements with the its choir. At 12 he dropped out and began working mosque’s management prior to her per- and singing to help the family make ends meet. sonal visit.

When he turned 17, his brother Toufi c showed him an announcement about a signing competition Despite being directed to enter through at state-run Lebanon Radio. He placed fi rst out of the visitor’s entrance to take a standard 40 contestants and began working at the station. He later traveled to Brazil, where he spent tour of the mosque, Rihanna stayed out- time before returning to Lebanon. Mr. Safi left Lebanon at the start of the 1975-90 civil side to snap the shots in question, and war, traveling fi rst to Egypt, then Britain, and fi nally, France. was reportedly asked to leave once it be- In addition to Lebanese, Mr. Safi held Egyptian, Brazilian and French citizenships. came apparent that the photographs — and sensual poses — did not fi t within the rules and regulations set out to preserve the sacredness of the centre. Survivors include his wife, Melfi na Francis, and six sons and daughters. www.al-sahafa.us November 2013 • Page 11 FFashionashion & StyleStyle Jamal Taslaq… Bringing ‘Arab Elegance’ to all Women By Rosanna Akhavan-Merhebi his homeland of Palestine, he spent his childhood days trying to discover his in- This month’s exclusive Arab Fashion terests and explore his creativity. Jamal Designer spotlight, centers on Jamal didn’t know right away that he wanted to Taslaq; a Palestinian high fashion de- pursue fashion, but found himself drawn signer based in Italy. Hailing from the to Fashion. He explains one of his ini- Middle Eastern city of Nablus in Pales- tial fashion encounters as a child; “since tine, Jamal Taslaq studied fashion design I was a child, I used to see a friend of my in Italy, where he worked his way to be- mother designing and tailoring women’s coming one of the top Fashion Designers dresses. I was fascinated about the fact in Roma! He has debuted on the run- that she could design and turn her own ways of Alta Moda Rome; and not for- ideas into a physical reality. Probably getting to mention that his fashions have my attitude for fashion was already in- dressed women from all over the world. side me at that time but I didn’t know.” Some of his clientele even includes Arab Lucky for us readers, that Jamal Taslaq royalty such as Her Majesty, the Queen followed his instincts and those instincts of Jordan, and Hollywood celebrities led him to decide to go to Italy to study such as Sharon Stone and a plethora of fashion! successful & well-to-do socialites. Jamal didn’t have it easy from the ternational designers. He describes would give to others trying to become a Nothing says fabulous like a gorgeous beginning. He worked very hard to that it was a profound moment that he Fashion Designer like him, His advice is ornate gown for a special occasion. save money to go off to Italy and study had made it and succeeded. He had simple and well said, “They should be Most of us know that in the Middle East, abroad. He knew that Italy would be the people from all over the world applaud- ambitious but modest, and working hard the women always look stunning and el- place for him to learn and grow into a ing his work which truly was a riveting even if the job is not directly connected egant because they have some of the best Fashion Designer. It was in Italy where moment. Since then he is regarded as with fashion, never give up and always dresses designed especially for them. In he put in blood, sweat and tears doing one of Rome’s most elite and success- believe in your dream.” Designer, Ja- fact, if you have ever been to an event whatever it took to make his dream a ful high Fashion Designers. From there mal Taslaq defi nitely feels very strongly in the Middle East, the women hands reality, (as Italy is known as one of the his greatness has only perpetuated and about his work and has worked very hard down always look like they stepped off esteemed Fashion capitals of the world). spread across the world. to get where he is today. Through ups a runway. That is just how fabulous the So one can just imagine the big ocean he and downs he stood by his dream and dresses are abroad. It is no wonder that found himself swimming in – competing Besides designing fabulous evening followed his heart to become the fabu- many of the top designers originate from to make a name for himself and get his gowns donned by International Celebri- different parts of the Arab world. It is star to shine brightly amongst an immea- ties & Royalties alike, Taslaq has an im- designers like Jamal Taslaq bringing red surable amount of designers trying to pressive record in participating in many carpet style creations, to women all over break in to the fashion world – in Italy, exhibitions where his work has been pre- the world. of all countries! Jump forward twenty sented. Some of these include Palestine, years in Italy, and Jamal Taslaq can fi - Morroco, Jordan and Italy - just to name As Jamal talks about growing up in nally say, that within the last decade has a few. Jamal has graced many runways become one of the top in Rome, China and most recently was in fashion designers in the prestigious Mercedes Benz Fashion Rome. During this Week 2013. No matter where he has his time, Jamal worked work presented, they are always loved his way up until the by all. day he debuted on the runways of Alta Moda It must also be noted, that Jamal Taslaq Rome 2000. He re- also uses his Fashion for good causes, calls what an amaz- such as; Fashion for Peace, Fashion in ing moment this was the Mediterranean and UNICEF fashion for him. He debuted shows for children. He believes in giv- his designs amongst ing back and being a good role model some already famous to others particularly to his fellow Pal- and well known In- estinians. I asked him what advise he November 2013 • Page 12 www.al-sahafa.us FFashionashion & StyleStyle culture bringing to life dynamic and high end couture fashion. He designs beautiful evening gowns, cocktail dresses, and wedding gowns. He talks about the impor- tance of using the fi nest materials and & bringing to life amazing & magnifi cent details on each of his dresses. His favorite aspect in design, is the creativity involved; “the fact to be able to start from a fabric and turn it into a very nice dress that can make a woman feel unique.” Jamal really believes that it is important that his dresses capture the essence of a woman and respects the char- acter of the woman who wears the dress.

Readers, it is clear that Jamal found his calling as a fashion designer because he expresses it with very distinct passion and love. Jamal exclusively for Al- Sahafa, discussed his latest collection which he says is inspired by the color white and snow. He is taking the aspects of the snow and applying that to textures and materials he used. His newest collection is expressing feminine transparency. He uses a lot of silk, georgette, satin and incorporated detailing with white fur and crys- tals. Jamal really takes his work seriously using ideas lous designer that he is known for today. that come to him in different forms and building off of them. It’s no wonder his collections are so breathtak- Taslaq attributes his fashion success to a unique tal- ing and beautiful! After looking at many of his dresses ent for uniting the colors of the Mediterranean with the from past and present collections, I wouldn’t mind hav- “Made in Italy” style that is unique worldwide, and ing all of them in my closet! for his ability to dress the body and soul of a woman. lections speak for themselves)! Jamal Taslaq is truly I asked Jamal what is in store for the future as a de- He really desires to capture the essence of a woman someone to admire and look up to because he followed signer. He will continue to do the collections of Haute in his designs. He brings his rich Arab culture into his dreams and has seen so much success, yet remains Couture but would like to begin a Prêt-a-couture col- his designs, and says he tries to incorporate Palestin- so humble. Keep a look out for his latest collection lection. It’s an idea that he wants to have every woman ian tradition & ‘Arab taste’ into each of his creations. readers. We hope to see more of his designs in the fu- feel like they are wearing an haute couture dress but (The Ramallah fashion festival 2011 included a dress ture and wish him continued success. resembling the Palestinian fl ag, as well as other designs make it more available in boutiques all over and in various sizes. He wants to make high fashion acces- bringing in Arab culture by Jamal Taslaq). If you are interested in learning more about Jamal sible to any woman. It is clear that Jamal is very hard Taslaq and where to get some of his gorgeous dresses, working and defi nitely a master at his art, (as his col- Jamal uses his eye for detail and his multi-faceted Arab visit his website: www.jamaltaslaq.com.

www.al-sahafa.us November 2013 • Page 13 Merging ArabCommunityCom Culturemuni tandy Education with Dr. Mais To Date or Not To Date: That is the Question! By; Dr. Mais Khourdaji This feeling of boys and girls connecting (PhD; Syrian-American, in any way that is outside the realm of aca- My friend, Nazek Habatfha, is Syrian- School Psychologist) demia as bad or taboo, or something that can American, yet her large extended family has only be done with strict guidelines or permis- nationality origins from the Circassian region sion, has been in my earliest memories. In of the North Caucasus in Europe. Despite As early as 4th grade, when a boy I’ll refer boys who form relationships with girls in any high school, suddenly facing the qualms of this history, Nazek possess a strong Syrian/ to as DP called my house, I remember the is- context. school dances and house parties, my social Arab identifi cation with the Syrian language sue of boys and girls was an “issue.” My sis- life became a series of negotiations. I could and culture, having been raised within a very ter had answered the phone in the kitchen. It The common issues that arise with Arab- only go with these friends, be home at this large Syrian-American community in New was one of those wall mounted phones right American teenagers trying to fi nd a happy time, make sure to call when I got there and Jersey. Unique to her community, many next to the family dinner table, meaning ab- medium between their two worlds are: trust on my way home. In the end, I often just shared a common ancestral history from the solutely no privacy. She had passed me the (“my parents don’t trust me”), double stan- opted out simply because it was easier. My Circassian region. This community thank- phone with a little gleam in her eye and small dard (“my brother can date”), and cultural re- sister and I were thankfully best friends and fully provided a social buffer that balanced smile, and I took the phone from her appre- sentment (“I hate not fi tting in”). For parents, had enough fun together that I never really the prohibited social interaction with non- hensively. they see that they are simply protecting their felt that I missed out on much. My parents Arab Americans rules her parents enforced. daughters, ensuring that their futures will be were strict but still fair, despite how strict the She expressed that the strict rules weren’t “Hello?” open and unobstructed by possibly straying rules seemed. Yet, within those rules, it was a necessarily based on religion, as she jovially “Mais? Hi, it’s DP.” of the safe path of good grades, college, and big ‘NO-NO’ on dating. referred to her community (and her parents, “Oh. Hi.” marriage. For children, they see that they too), as “Cafeteria Muslims;” they picked and I could feel my mom, who was in the kitch- are forced into a lifestyle with daily cultural chose aspects of Islam that suited them and en cooking behind me, suddenly hovering clashes: Am I American or Arab? Often, the their lifestyle. Nazek expressed that within close to the table. Arab-American children I’ve worked with this large subculture, social interactions be- don’t understand why they are raised here in tween boys and girls was acceptable, while “Is it ok that I called? I got your number America, if their parents expect them to only any interaction between non-Arab Ameri- from S.” embrace their Arab identity. cans outside of school was strictly forbidden. “Oh yeah, it’s ok.” Nazek accepted that after school, her inter- “What are you doing?” Perhaps if Arab-American women such actions with those friends stayed at school; “Homework. How about you?” as myself, Nazek, and Randa look back on when she came home, her life was immersed “Nothin, I just got back from soccer prac- our adolescence now as married adults, free within the Arab culture of the local commu- tice.” to make our own choices as well as make nity. Of course, she said she felt different at choices for our children in the future, should school, but Nazek “never questioned it”, as “Hello???!!” we resent the double-life we were in many For Arab Americans, No-No dating rules that was just how life was...within that com- “Dad! I’m on the phone!!” ways, forced to accept? Nazek and Randa are very common, more the norm than not. munity, “all was safe and good.” “Mais, who is this??” agreed that they did miss out on some experi- Whether the reasons behind this is cultural Similarly, Randa Hassan (a Palestinian- “Dad it’s my friend from school!” ences. Will we do the same with our children, or not, it is unique to each family dynamic. American) expressed that “we were never “Hello?” and should we, to preserve the quality of our As a teacher working in the schools now, really told that there were ‘rules,’ it was just I could hear DP’s voice quiver on the other Arab culture and traditions? Obviously, I today there are mixed gender activities that understood that boys and dating wasn’t ac- end of the phone, my dad’s strong voice scar- cannot tell you what to do, nor what I will help defi ne popularity, especially at the high ceptable, because premarital sex wasn’t ac- ing the s*** out of him. do myself. But I do believe that with under- school level. Dances, parties, after school ceptable, so to minimize that potential we standing comes acceptance. The children I projects, and student government, are ex- couldn’t be friends with boys. My parents “It’s time for dinner, no more talking.” see are confused because they were just told amples of ways students have shared how would explain that we weren’t like Ameri- “Ok, dad!” what to do, and in a way, who to be. Trying to they’ve made friends and closer relationships cans who freely dated...we should only get to My dad hung up, and I remember apologiz- embrace being Arab while living in America with other students. During shared activities, know someone of the opposite sex [with] in- ing to DP, my cheeks enfl amed as I hung up is not easy when the two cultures are separat- connections with others naturally form. I tentions of marriage.” Randa said this wasn’t the phone. ed by an invisible wall—to stay on one side think parents of children in Arab-American solely connected to religion either, but more of that wall is impossible, yet straddling it is families know this, and perhaps fear the un- with reputation within the Arab community. uncomfortable. I encourage parents to realize known: What if my daughter makes a bad To have a relationship with an American boy this, and try to be sympathetic to the social choice with a boy? What if a boy comes on could “cost us potential marriage options,” struggles your children must cope with as sexually to my daughter during one of these as it was accepted that Randa and her sisters they try to discover who they are while trying activities? What if someone sees my daugh- would marry an Arab or Arab-American. It to make the right choices, yet still enjoy their ter with a boy and gets the wrong idea? This complicates things when one considers the adolescence and respect the Middle Eastern fear then translates into saying “No” to the comparably more lenient rules applied to traditions of their parents. requests of their children and the activities males in the Arab-American community. they want to get involved in. Much less stigma, if any, is associated with November 2013 • Page 14 www.al-sahafa.us HHealthHealthealth NNewsNewsews An Ounce of Prevention By; Dr. Noel Abood D.C. As patients, we need to make better choices.

As a practicing physician of over 30 years, I have no- Protecting our health is more achievable than you ticed that our society has taken on a dysfunctional re- might think. We can choose to eat properly, exercise and lationship with its doctors. Dysfunction is defi ned as reduce stress with a little guidance. Better health is truly a failure to challenge, prepare or fortify a relationship. attainable. But the choice is ours. Clearly defi ned roles are essential between patient and doctor. The doctor’s role is to diagnose and prescribe a I would like to offer three proven steps that you can treatment plan for the patient. The patient’s role is to begin today to restore your health and prolong life. provide the doctor with an accurate history of his/her condition and express his/her desired results. Too often, 1. Eat a plant-based diet. Dr. Caldwell Esselsten due to the changing culture of healthcare, the doctor-pa- of the Cleveland Clinic has proven that heart disease is tient relationship has faltered. The doctor no longer has reversible by eliminating or reducing animal products as much time to spend formulating a treatment plan for from our diet. Take time to investigate the correlation the patient, and the patient often doesn’t have the time or between the food you eat and the resulting health prob- energy to follow through with the doctor’s prescription. lems. Begin by slowly introducing more vegetables and fruit to your diet. This disconnect between doctor and patient is result- 2. Become physically active. Americans have ing in a large-scale loss of health in our country. Gallup gained an average of 15 pounds per person compared to polls show that 62% of Americans are overweight and 1990. This excess weight is responsible for a myriad of each day to be alone and isolate yourself from the ever- that the average person is 15 pounds heavier when com- health problems, including back and neck pain. Exercise present demands of the day. pared to the year 1990. Heart disease is the number one must become a part of your lifestyle in order to reverse cause of death in the United States, followed by cancer. and/or prevent disease. 30 minutes 3-4 times a week is Remember, you make choices daily that move you These trends are not good news for our society. Over all that is required to reap the benefi ts. closer to health or closer to death. Choose wisely. the years, I have noticed patients relinquishing control of 3. Reduce stress in your life. Emotional stress their health to their physician. produces the release of hormones that cause the body If you’re suffering with chronic back or leg pain and to break down faster, resulting in irritability, fatigue and don’t know where to turn or who to trust, I invite you It is time for patients to regain control of their health. headaches. An easy way to reduce stress is to unplug the to call our offi ce: Solon Spine and Wellness Center is We need to demand an open dialogue and clear-cut constant stream of media via Internet and smart phones. located at 6175 S.O.M. Center Road, Suite 140, in Solon, treatment program of our doctors in order to restore our Being constantly plugged in leaves very little downtime Ohio. 440-540-5319 www.SolonBackPain.com health. for brain-body connection to rest and repair. Make time

Chef's Story, cont’d from page 8 mix until well blended. Add your “scent Kahk. (optional: Take a fork and impress good rule of thumb to take them out of as ‘Sweet Spice’ of kahk” to this and mix until blended. the top, other options may include putting the oven and inspect the bottoms. Allow Optional: nuts, dates, or Turkish delight Slowly start to add your dry ingredients the dough in cookie molds to produce a cookies to cool to room temperature. for fi llings if you prefer to your wet ingredients and knead the style) Powdered sugar to top dough with your hands until it’s soft and Once they have cooled down, sift pow- well blended Place your cookies on a greased cookie dered sugar over top. Now your cookies Preheat your oven to 375 sheet. Once you have used all your dough, are ready to eat! Combine wet ingredients fi rst: Combine Take a small amount of dough and roll place your cookie sheets in the oven and 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt with the 2 into a ball and shape into a fl at circle. If allow them to bake for 20-25 minutes. cups of Crisco you want to add any fi llings you can cre- Watch your kahk carefully, as ovens vary *CALLING ALL CHEFS! Combine your dry ingredients: Next ate a divot in the dough and add whatever and they can very quickly go from almost Do you know someone who has a great get your fl our in a separate bowl, cre- you would like to and close the gap. With done to overdone. Cookies are done when recipe or story that would be a perfect ate a small hole in the center of the fl our your Minash, create small designs on the they are light golden brown, often it’s a fi t for the Food For Thought section? If and add your teaspoon of baking powder, so, they could be featured in an upcom- ing ‘Chef Story’ article! By sending their name and information to Al-Sahafa (offi [email protected]) they will have a chance to become part of Al -Sahafa’s na- tionally read ‘Chef’s Story’ section. This unique section brings your kitchen, your special story, and your favorite family dish- to the homes and hearts of readers all across America. Sa7htain!

www.al-sahafa.us November 2013 • Page 15 In The News

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November 2013 • Page 16 www.al-sahafa.us Interesting to Note $1.9m of gold found Syrian man in Tom in fl yDubai plane toilet Hanks-like limbo at

By Courtney Trenwith(Arabian Business) Dubai airport Cleaners discovered 280 gold bars Reuters worth £1.17m ($1.9m) inside a toilet af- ter landing on a fl yDubai fl ight from the A Syrian man has been stranded at emirate to Bangladesh, according to the Dubai airport for 16 days in a case UK’s Daily Mail. with echoes of the Tom Hanks fi lm “The Terminal”. Armed police were called on board the plane when it landed at Hazrat Shah- Wasfi Tayseer Jarad has been stuck jalal International Airport in Dhaka, at the airport’s Terminal 2 since being where the bullion was discovered dur- freed from prison after serving time ing cleaning. for a drugs conviction and issued with a deportation order, the English- Custom offi cials said they knew the language Gulf News reported. bars – weighing 32kg in total - were on board and believe the person traffi cking them sensed there was a police presence and abandoned the gold before fl eeing the scene, With his native Syria in political turmoil, like Hanks’ homeland in the 2004 fi lm, the newspaper said. authorities in Dubai gave the 34-year-old the option to travel to anywhere that would take him. More than 100 hauls of gold weighing about 300kg and other precious items have reportedly been seized at the airport in the past eight months. Gold, cont’d on page 21 Limbo, cont’d on page 21 Saudi women defy warnings to break driving ban Reuters peared to be more traffi c patrols Mosques across Saudi Arabia hacked on Saturday morning, than usual on the streets of the broadcast sermons on Friday tell- displaying a black background A few women fi lmed them- capital - the latest sign of the sen- ing women to stay at home. illuminated by glowing red light- selves driving in Saudi cities on sitivity of the issue in the ultra- Protests are illegal in Saudi ning bolts and bearing the mes- Saturday, defying government conservative Islamic kingdom. Arabia, and public demands for sage “Reason for the hacking: I ly public support for the idea of warnings of arrest and prosecu- “I know of several women who political or social change have am against women driving in the women driving in the media and tion to take part in a campaign drove earlier today. We will post traditionally been interpreted by land of the two holy shrines”. among prominent Saudi fi gures. against men-only road rules, ac- videos (online) later,” one of the the authorities as an unacceptable The kingdom’s powerful reli- This month three women in the tivists said. campaign organizers told Reuters challenge to the ruling al-Saud gious establishment is lavishly Shoura Council, an appointed But some others stayed at home, by phone. family’s authority, local analysts fi nanced by the state, but it has quasi-parliament set up by King put off by phone calls from men Five videos were published on say. opposed numerous government Abdullah to advise the govern- who said they were from the Inte- the campaign’s YouTube feed However, organizers said their efforts to gradually increase ment on policy, said the Transport rior Ministry, reported organizers and Twitter on Saturday morning, call for women to drive was not women’s public role in society. Ministry should look into allow- of the demonstration against an dated Oct. 26 and purporting to a political protest as they had not On Tuesday, around 150 con- ing women to drive. effective ban on women drivers. show women driving in Riyadh, called for gatherings, rallies or servative clerics gathered outside They argued that the ban made Police put up checkpoints in the oasis region of Al-Ahsa and processions of cars. the royal court in a rare protest it hard for women to work or some parts of Riyadh, Reuters the city of Jeddah. Instead they have asked women against the pace of social re- look after their families and that witnesses said, and there ap- It was not possible to verify with foreign driving licenses to forms in Saudi Arabia, including it caused fi nancial hardship for when they were fi lmed. get behind the wheel accompa- women’s rights. One prominent families who had to employ a cleric, Sheikh Nasser al-Omar, full-time driver. King Abdullah has pushed some nied by a male relative and drive was fi lmed describing the cam- cautious reforms, expanding fe- themselves when performing ev- Some Saudi newspapers have paign for women to drive as “a male education and employment. eryday tasks. also published editorials argu- conspiracy”. But he has also been careful not A website set up by the cam- ing women should be allowed to to open big rifts with conserva- paigners to petition the govern- However, supporters of the drive. tive clerics. ment appeared to have been campaign can point to increasing- www.al-sahafa.us November 2013 • Page 17 MMiddleMiddleiddle EastEEastast NewsNNewsews How the Sunni-Shia schism is dividing the world The unprecedented Saudi refusal to take up its Security Council seat is not just about Syria but a response to the Iranian threat By; Robert Fisk to destroy. Hardly, one imagines, the (London, The Independent) kind of notion that Prince Bandar wishes to publicise. The Muslim world’s historic – and deeply tragic – chasm between Sunni Furthermore, America’s latest contri- and Shia Islam is having worldwide re- bution to Middle East “peace” could be percussions. Syria’s civil war, America’s the sale of $10.8bn worth of missiles craven alliance with the Sunni Gulf au- and arms to Sunni Saudi Arabia and the tocracies, and Sunni (as well as Israeli) equally Sunni United Arab Emirates, in- suspicions of Shia Iran are affecting even cluding GBU-39 bombs – the weapons the work of the United Nations. cutely called “bunker-busters” – which they could use against Shia Iran. Israel, Saudi Arabia’s petulant refusal last of course, possesses the very same arma- week to take its place among non-voting ments. members of the Security Council, an un- precedented step by any UN member, Whether the hapless Mr Kerry – whose was intended to express the dictatorial risible promise of an “unbelievably monarchy’s displeasure with Washing- small” attack on Syria made him the ton’s refusal to bomb Syria after the laughing stock of the Middle East – un- use of chemical weapons in Damascus derstands the degree to which he is com- – but it also represented Saudi fears that mitting his country to the Sunni side in Barack Obama might respond to Iranian Islam’s oldest confl ict is the subject of overtures for better relations with the much debate in the Arab world. His re- is one reason why the post-Saleh regime dictatorship are interchangeable – which West. sponse to the Saudi refusal to take its place in the UN Security Council has in Sanaa has been supporting the Zaidi neither Washington nor London nor Paris Shia Houthi “rebels” whose home prov- (nor indeed Moscow or Beijing) will ac- The Saudi head of intelligence, Prince been almost as weird. inces of Sa’adah, al Jawf and Hajja bor- knowledge. But, needless to say, there Bandar bin Sultan – a true buddy of Pres- der Saudi Arabia. The Houthis are – ac- are a few irritating – and incongruous – ident George W Bush during his 22 years After lunch on Monday at the Paris cording to the Sunni Saudis – supported ripples in this mutual passion. as ambassador in Washington – has now home of the Saudi Foreign Minister, by Iran. rattled his tin drum to warn the Ameri- Saud al-Faisal, Kerry – via his usual The Saudis, for example, blame Obama cans that Saudi Arabia will make a “ma- anonymous offi cials – said that he val- The minority Sunni monarchy in Bah- for allowing Egypt’s decadent Hosni jor shift” in its relations with the US, not ued the autocracy’s leadership in the rain – supported by the Saudis and of Mubarak to be overthrown. They blame just because of its failure to attack Syria region, shared Riyadh’s desire to de-nu- course by the compliant governments the Americans for supporting the elect- but for its inability to produce a fair Is- clearise Iran and to bring an end to the of the US, Britain, et al – is likewise ac- ed Muslim Brother Mohamed Morsi as raeli-Palestinian peace settlement. Syrian war. But Kerry’s insistence that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and cusing Shia Iran of colluding with the president – elections not being terribly island’s majority Shias. Oddly, Prince popular in the Gulf – and the Saudis are What this “major shift” might be – save his regime must abandon power means Bandar, in his comments, claimed that now throwing cash at Egypt’s new mili- for the usual Saudi hot air about its inde- that a Sunni government would take over Barack Obama had failed to support Sau- tary regime. Assad in Damascus also of- pendence from US foreign policy – was Syria; and his wish to disarm Shia Iran – di policy in Bahrain – which involved fered his congratulations to the Egyptian a secret that the prince kept to himself. however notional its nuclear threat may be – would ensure that Sunni military sending its own troops into the island to military. Was the Egyptian army not, help repress Shia demonstrators in 2011 after all – like Assad himself – trying to Israel, of course, never loses an op- power would dominate the Middle East – when in fact America’s silence over the prevent religious extremists from taking portunity to publicise – quite accurately from the Afghan border to the Mediter- regime’s paramilitary violence was the power? – how closely many of its Middle East ranean. nearest Washington could go in offering policies now coincide with those of the its backing to the Sunni minority and his Fair enough – providing we remember wealthy potentates of the Arab Gulf. Few realise that Yemen constitutes an- other of the Saudi-Iranian battlegrounds Royal Highness the King of Bahrain. that the Saudis are really supporting the Egyptian Salafi sts who cynically gave Hatred of the Shia/Alawite Syrian re- in the region. All in all, then, a mighty Western love their loyalty to the Egyptian military, and gime, an unquenchable suspicion of Shia affair with Sunni Islam – a love that very that Saudi-fi nanced Salafi sts are among Iran’s nuclear plans and a general fear of Saudi enthusiasm for Salafi st groups in defi nitely cannot speak its name in an the fi ercest opponents of Assad. Shia expansion is turning the unelected Yemen – including the Islah party, which Arab Gulf world in which “democracy”, Sunni Arab monarchies into proxy allies is allegedly funded by Qatar, though it “moderation”, “partnership” and outright of the Israeli state they have often sworn denies receiving any external support – November 2013 • Page 18 www.al-sahafa.us MMiddleMiddleiddle EastEEastast NewsNNewsews Syria and Hizbollah have hollowed out the Lebanese state By; Hussein Ibish (senior fellow over from Syria to the northernmost part at the American Task Force on of Lebanon. How long this can continue Palestine, & columnist for Now is increasingly questionable, given Hiz- Media) bollah’s own direct intervention in Syria on the side of the Damascus dictatorship. The fragmentation of the Syrian state This was a direct contravention of the is rapidly spilling over the country’s bor- 2012 “Baabda declaration”, in which all ders. Lebanon, in particular, is facing the major Lebanese political factions agreed prospect of unprecedented state disinte- to stay out of regional confl icts. gration, and of the unraveling of its sys- But it was inevitable that the Syr- tem of uneasy sectarian coexistence. This ian fi ghting would spread into northern is by far Lebanon’s deepest crisis since Lebanon and that Hizbollah would feel the end of the 15-year civil war that ran compelled to support the Syrian regime, from the mid-1970s to the late 1980s. its partners and fellow Iranian client. As the stakes grow higher, the danger of the In Iraq, the Syrian spillover is being Syrian confl ict extending itself into much manifested primarily in almost-daily or most of Lebanon – as it seems to have suicide bombs and car bombs that killed done in Iraq – intensifi es. more than 1,000 people in September In fact the Lebanese political crisis – fu- alone. But Iraqi domestic politics are not elled, if not created, by the Syrian confl ict driven by events in Syria the way matters – is perhaps even more alarming than the in Lebanon have been. spillover of physical violence seen thus far. The Lebanese state is experiencing a In the latest manifestation of the metas- degree of fragmentation and disarray that tasis of the Syrian confl ict into Lebanon, is, for its institutions, at least as severe as at least four people were killed in fi ght- what happened in the worst periods of the ing between Sunni Muslim and Alawite civil war. The spillover thus threatening militias last week in the northern city of the equilibrium of unstable elements that Iranian patrons. outsiders so high. Tripoli. This is merely the most recent has held Lebanon together, more or less, Hizbollah’s most immediate fears in- Lebanon fi nds itself trapped in concen- of a series of violent incidents that have in recent years. volve Lebanese government cooperation tric circles of alliances and rivalries. In- rocked the country, all linked to the con- The Lebanese prime minister-designate, with and funding of the Special Tribu- ternally and in neighbouring Syria there fl ict in Syria. Tammam Salam, has been unable to form nal for Lebanon, which has indicted fi ve is the immediate confl ict between pro- In August, two car bombs exploded a cabinet since April, because of a bitter Hizbollah operatives for the 2005 assas- and anti-Al Assad forces. These groups at mosques in Tripoli, killing 42 people dispute between pro-and anti-Syrian fac- sination of former prime minister Rafi k are themselves proxies in larger regional and wounding hundreds. A week earlier tions, particularly Hizbollah. Hariri. He had reportedly been threatened rivalries pitting Iran against Saudi Ara- a bomb attack killed 20 in a Hizbollah- An alliance of Sunni Muslim and Chris- by Syrian President Bashar Al Assad per- bia and its allies. And at the global level, controlled area of southern Beirut. Rock- tian parties is pushing for a three-way sonally, shortly before his murder. there is a re-emerging confl ict of interests et attacks, explosions and kidnappings division within the cabinet with Shiites, But there are far deeper problems lying between the United States and Russia that have all been on the rise throughout the Sunnis and Christians each receiving beneath the Lebanese political surface. also fi lters down into the Lebanese con- country. eight seats. Hizbollah, however, is insist- Most of the country’s governing and ser- text. The main Lebanese political forces ing on one extra seat for itself or its allies vice-providing institutions – with the ob- UN special envoy Terje Roed-Larsen have tacitly agreed, and barely managed, – in practice, demanding a veto over all vious exceptions of the cabinet itself, the was not exaggerating when he warned to more or less quarantine the direct spill- major government decisions. Hizbollah seeks total impunity in those internal security services and signifi cant recently that “Lebanon today is facing parts of Lebanon in which it operates a parts of the military – have been either the most dangerous situation in its history de facto state-within-a-state, complete systematically hollowed out or else taken after the end of the civil war”. with its own foreign and defense poli- over by Hizbollah. Those that have not The reality is that Syria is starting to cies and military, while at the same time been are under growing threat, as the pa- look increasingly like Lebanon: frag- aiming to block any decision it cannot ralysis over forming a new cabinet dem- mented, splintered and ruled in fact by accept involving the rest of the country. onstrates. different groups in their own discrete Its demand to be “fi rst among equals” is The Lebanese are used to their country areas. The irony is that Syria’s transition not acceptable to the other factions. This serving as a proxy battlefi eld for regional into a Lebanese-like reality may destroy impossible position is largely driven by rivalries. But for many decades the state the ability of Lebanon to maintain its own the agendas of Hizbollah’s Syrian and has not been so hollow, or the stakes for uneasy equilibrium.

www.al-sahafa.us November 2013 • Page 19 MMiddleMiddleiddle EastEEastast NewsNNewsews Arab League announces date for Syria peace talks

By; Phil Sands (The National) gime, are also against negotiations. The likelihood of that date being met was, however, im- “A conference will not be convened without a convincing mediately called into question by Lakhdar Brahimi, the UN opposition that represents an important part of Syria’s oppo- special envoy to Syria, who said no fi rm timetable had been sition population,” Mr Brahimi said, although he added that set, and that peace talks could not take place without credible did not mean all opposition factions – there are hundreds of opposition involvement. different groups, many armed, some political – need attend. “I discussed the Syria fi le with Lakhdar Brahimi and it was Mr Brahimi stressed no fi nal date for Geneva 2 could be decided that the Geneva meeting would take place on No- set until he had met Qatari, Turkish, Iranian, Syrian, Rus- vember 23 and arrangements are being made to prepare for sian and American offi cials, who would all need to give their this conference,” Arab League chief Nabil Elaraby said in agreement. Indications as to whether that agreement will be Cairo after meeting Mr Brahimi. forthcoming is likely to emerge from London when a meeting “Of course there are many arrangements and many ob- of the “Friends of Syria” group, made up of the Western and stacles and diffi culties that have to be overcome,” he said. Arabian Gulf powers backing the Syrian National Coalition, These obstacles to the much delayed Geneva 2 peace talks, a is due. If they insist Geneva 2 should go ahead next month, it follow up to the initial Geneva conference of June last year, will heap pressure on the Syrian National Coalition to attend. ing on Syria. may prove insurmountable. “For all the talk of Geneva, I can assure you it is empty, “What we are hearing is that Saudi will not compromise The Syrian National Council, a key faction in the Syrian talks cannot succeed and will not succeed, it is just something on this one and that they will do whatever is necessary to National Coalition, the offi cially recognised opposition alli- the big powers are doing so they can tell their public they are see Assad and Iran beaten,” said the analyst. Iran and Saudi ance, has said it would not agree to talks with the regime un- trying to stop the war, when really they know it will not stop Arabia are two of the key players in the Syria confl ict, each less “conditions on the ground” change. More than 110,000 it,” said a Syrian opposition fi gure. a regional powerhouse backing an opposite side. Tehran has people have been killed since the start of the Syrian uprising “It is a game everyone is playing, it is a public relations given crucial military and fi nancial support to Mr Al Assad, in March 2011, according to the United Nations, with thou- exercise, nothing more.” propping up his regime in the face of a spreading rebellion. sands more wounded and millions more forced to fl ee their There appears little room for compromise. Syria’s regime Any peace talks without Iranian and Saudi participation homes. has ruled out any deal that requires Mr Al Assad to step seem doomed to fail, and there has been no sign they will Rebels drove a lorry laden with more than a tonne of ex- down, while the opposition insists on the end of his family’s both come to the table, or that Iran will even be invited, al- plosives into a government checkpoint on the outskirts of the repressive four-decade rule. Saudi Arabia, a major regional though a recent diplomatic thaw between Tehran and Wash- central city of Hama, killing at least 30 people. The Qaeda- supporter of the anti-Assad factions, remains fi rmly opposed ington may aid the prospect of success. So too may the recent linked Jabhat Al Nusra carried out the attack, said the Syrian to any negations that might allow Mr Al Assad or his allies deal between the Washington and Moscow to decommission Observatory for Human Rights. Rebel units at the forefront to cling to power, according to a political analyst in London Syria’s extensive chemical weapons program – a rare mo- of waging the war against Bashar Al Assad’s autocratic re- who has held talks with various international offi cials work- ment of agreement between the US and Russia over Syria. Hundreds demonstrate against Egypt’s proposed protest law (Egypt; Al-Ahram) military’s favor. Arguments and minor scuffl es erupted between the two groups. The anti-protest law march end- Hundreds demonstrated on Saturday October 26th in ed at Mohamed Mahmoud Street, the street leading to the downtown’s Talaat Harb square against the newly pro- Ministry of Interior headquarters. posed draft protest law, rallying under the banner “the The draft law, which was proposed by the cabinet in street is ours.” mid-February, has ignited public debate, with critics ar- guing that it infringes on Egyptian citizens’ basic rights Following a call to protest made by the ‘Way of the and freedoms. Among the law’s most controversial mea- Revolution Front,’ demonstrators chanted “Down with sures is a proposed clause allowing the interior minister the rule of the Interior Ministry…down with military or senior police offi cials to cancel, postpone or change rule” as they marched through the streets of downtown the location of a protest. The law also permits governors Cairo. to designate “protest-free” areas near state buildings. Re- Meanwhile, in the same Talaat Harb square, tens dem- sponding to growing criticism, Prime Minister Hazem “polarization” between the military and Muslim Brother- onstrated under the banner “No to terrorism,” referring to El-Beblawi said last week that the draft law could be hood. the escalating militant attacks targeting police and mili- amended after dialogue with political forces and parties. The Front coalition includes leading members of the tary since the ouster of Mohamed Morsi on July 3rd . April 6 Youth Movement, the Strong Egypt Party, the The Way of the Revolution Front, which called for the Revolutionary Socialists and the Justice and Freedom As the anti-protest law demonstration chanted against anti-protest law demonstration, was launched on Septem- Youth. the military, the ‘No to terrorism’ protesters rallied in the ber 24th , aiming to provide an alternative to the current

November 2013 • Page 20 www.al-sahafa.us MMiddleMiddleiddle EastEEastast NewsNNewsews UN Committed to Supporting Jordan Amid Turbulent Time By; khetam Malkawi (Jordan Times) adding that “here in Jordan, youth were a vibrant part of the national consulta- Jordan appreciates the work of UN agencies in the tions”. country, which is based on a “remarkable level of co- operation with public and private entities in every sec- Princess Basma, who was a guest of tor to support the national development agenda”, ac- honour at the celebration, noted that cording to HRH Princess Basma. throughout the post-2015 dialogue, young Jordanian volunteers showed en- Speaking at a ceremony held last month, to mark UN thusiasm and determination. Day, annually celebrated on October 24, the princess said that a pivotal feature of the preparation for the “They supported the dissemination of post-2015 development agenda is the fact that it is tak- My World survey by organizing debates ment, environmental sustainability and health were the ing place all over the world and engaging youths in the [and] social gatherings…,” she added. most debated themes in the national consultations, in discussions. which some 40,000 people participated, “driven by the The year 2015 is the deadline for the Millennium De- question ‘What world do you want?’” “For ultimately, it is the young people of today who velopment Goals (MDGs) program, which has made a feel the impact of the new post-2015 development “huge impact on the lives of millions of people” since Meanwhile, referring to challenges facing the coun- framework, or its adoption in 2000, according to the UN. try due to the repercussions of the regional turmoil and on the other the infl ux of refugees, the offi cial stressed that the UN hand will be This recognition triggered the UN and its partners Country Team is committed to supporting and contrib- involved in ful- worldwide to accelerate action to achieve the goals that uting to the national efforts to help Jordan cope with fi lling its objec- are not yet attained, and also underscored the urgen- the impact of these crises. tives,” Princess cy of designing a post-2015 development framework Basma said. that would build on the MDGs’ successes, address the The celebration also recognised the efforts of the weaknesses of the current framework and meet new Jordanian “Mark A Difference” volunteers, who were “Therefore, it global challenges, a UN statement said. For this pur- awarded the “My World Outreach Prize for the Arab is vital to en- pose, consultations with stakeholders are taking place States Region”, last month in New York. Three young sure that youth in 84 countries worldwide, to assess the views of sev- Jordanians received an award offered by Canon for are a part of the eral groups on priorities that should be refl ected in the the three best entries for the Instagram competition, conversation to future development agenda beyond 2015. launched by the UN to encourage people to capture identify the next “the future we want” on camera. development Speaking at the UN Day ceremony, UN Resident Co- priorities, both ordinator Costanza Farina said, the Post-2015 National Celebrated since 1948, UN Day marks the anniver- globally and lo- Consultations in Jordan were announced on this very sary of the ratifi cation of the United Nations Charter, cally,” she said, day last year. She announced that education, employ- the founding document signed in 1945.

Gold, cont’d from page 17 Limbo, cont’d from page 17 Earlier this month, authorities at India’s Chennai Airport seized 32kg of gold bars But his passport has expired, and Jordan -- where his family had fl ed from Syria’s worth INR95m ($1.53m) hidden in the toilet of a plane also fl ying from Dubai. civil war -- refused to let him in. Turkey and Lebanon have done the same, return- Four Sri Lankans were reportedly arrested in relation to the seizure, which in- ing Jarad on the same fl ights on which he arrived from Dubai, the newspaper said. cluded 32 1kg bars in two black video recorder bags. The case appears to have fallen between various jurisdictions: while Jarad him- An Indian offi cial reportedly said airline insiders may have been involved in self could not be reached by telephone, several local government departments all smuggling the gold. referred calls to each other when contacted by Reuters. The prosecutor’s offi ce, responsible for overseeing the deportation of convicts, said it would look into the Gold traffi cking has increased this year as the price of gold rises and exchange situation. rates in countries such as India decline. Jarad said he had been living on a hamburger a day and washing in toilets while The Indian government’s decision to increase the duty on gold bullion imports by his family tried to get him a new passport so he could join them in Jordan. He had three times this year to a record 10 percent also has caused trade activity in Dubai, been offered a fl ight to Latakia, Syria, but said he feared for his life there, telling a tradition export transit point, to fall by up to 60 percent in recent months, fuelling the paper: “I wish I could go back to Dubai jail.” black market trade. www.al-sahafa.us November 2013 • Page 21 Happy Thanksgiving (Thurs, Nov. 28th) Pass Me the Tabouli for Thanksgiving Please! By Rosanna Akhavan-Merhebi and Lebanese delights. Tabouli is our salad of choice for the feast. How can you resist a Middle Eastern salad with tomatoes, parsley, onions chopped up fi nely with some olive oil, Throughout history mankind has celebrated the bountiful harvest with THANKSGIVING lemon juice, and burghol (granulated wheat). It is yummy and healthy! We also have some ceremonies. Before the establishment of formal religions many ancient farmers believed that Persian cookies and Arabic baklava. The cookies are made with rose water, which gives it a their crops contained spirits, which caused the crops to grow and die. Many believed that unique taste (not too sweet but just right). Baklava has pistachios and syrup keeping the pieces these spirits would be released when the crops were harvested and they had to be destroyed together. A very tasty “after meal delight” accompanied with some Turkish coffee or Persian or they would take revenge on the farmers who harvested them. Some of the harvest festivals Darjeeling tea. The Persian tea has a great color and taste that you do not really need to even celebrated the defeat of these spirits. The ancient civilizations all held harvest festivals and add sugar! You just enjoy drinking every savory sip with your sweets. The Turkish coffee thanksgiving celebrations such as the Greeks, the Romans, the Hebrews, the Chinese, and has a strong bitter taste, I’m not a fan, but my Lebanese husband loves it. The the Egyptians in the Middle East. The ancient Egyptians celebrated their harvest coffee is served in very cute little cups with saucers. Last but not least my festival in honor of Min, their god of vegetation and fertility. The festival was husband and mom love to have sheesha A.K.A. hookah. (Hookah’s held in the springtime, which is the Egyptian's harvest season. The festival originated in India and is very popular in Middle Eastern coun- of Min featured a parade in which the Pharaoh took part. After the pa- tries. It is a device operating with water fi ltration and indirect rade a great feast was held. Music, dancing, and sports were also all heat to smoke some fl avored tobacco). Yes, they love some part of the Thanksgiving celebration. When the Egyptian farmers hookah especially apple or grape fl avor. It is light and harvested their corn, they wept and pretended to be grief-strick- nice to have, especially after such a fi lling meal. So en. This was to deceive the spirit, which they believed lived in as you can see we like the American Thanksgiving the corn. They feared the spirit would become angry when the traditional holiday, but we spice it up with our own farmers cut down the corn where it lived. Middle Eastern style every year.

Okay – now let us forward thousands of years, and let’s I remember when I was younger I would not eat talk about Thanksgiving here in the U.S. all day just to have room for all those carb fi lled foods. We started so many traditions on that Ever since I can remember my family has been taking day. It is not just all about the food, we have part of this tradition and celebrating Thanksgiving. My so many other things we enjoy on that day. For parents said they never knew what it was until one year instance after dinner we like to go for a walk they were invited to a neighbor’s house for Thanksgiv- and then sit in the theater room watching a ing and were given a brief summary of what Thanks- holiday movie. It is also nice to look around giving was all about. They ate the traditional turkey and see the family growing all my nieces and and all the trimmings and my mom soon learned how to nephews running around. Now this year will cook her own turkey. It was not long before my mom be my little baby’s fi rst Thanksgiving. It is adopted this holiday and our family began celebrating it a tradition I had to get my Lebanese husband every year. In the beginning it took her awhile to get the used to. He never celebrated Thanksgiving hang of cooking the meal like the turkey, (which caught until we got married, because in Lebanon it is on fi re one year LOL!!!). But if you are like our family, not a holiday. But sure enough he’s on board and I’m sure many of you are, you share that basic under- and anything with food and family is appealing standing of togetherness and family on Thanksgiving. I’m to him! sure you and your family have your own way of celebrating it and have found a way to put your own “cultural twist” on My friend from Morocco likes to go to the butcher this great traditional holiday. and get halal turkey (Halal means the meat has been blessed and the food has been killed/butchered follow- Just think, every Thanksgiving Holiday– millions of American ing Islamic law, similar to Kosher law under the Jewish families, in the “United” States of America, whose origins, religions religion). I found this to be very interesting. She told and cultures originate from all over the world, unite together around me there is even a wait, so apparently there are many that their dinner tables and share one thing in common – to feast! go to the butcher and put in their order for Halal Turkey. But whenever she can’t have turkey they settle for some lamb with It’s really interesting to see how some other families celebrate. My family gets rice. Instead of a pumpkin pie, their family enjoys some kenafe and together each year at a different family members’ home. All the kids are seated at one baklava (Arabic sweets yum) with their tea. I don’t think they have the table (of which I’m happy to say I fi nally graduated and am sitting at the grown up table)! You football on their TV, but defi nitely she has some loud family members gathered and have my brother screaming at the TV screen because his football team is losing. Everyone talking away. She was telling me that she is glad to take part in the holiday because sometimes is sitting around the dinner table chatting, laughing loudly, and eating. My dad loves to talk life in the states can be so hectic. This hectic life leaves less time for family and leisure for so politics (domestic or international), maybe not always the best subject at the dinner table. Es- many. So she said it is great to have a day where they can sit together as a family, enjoying pecially when you have so many different loud Persian and Arab personalities gathered. But good food and good company. with all the craziness, I love being there with all the people that matter most to me, and that is the greatest reason to celebrate and be thankful for my loving (sometimes loud and opinion- Thanksgiving may not be a tradition abroad, but I love taking part in the holiday with my ated) family. I also enjoy having the Turkey with all the yummy side dishes. family here in America, this wonderful “melting pot” country. To me, Thanksgiving is a time to come together with my loved ones and spend time and be grateful for each other, our good In addition to the basics of having turkey, stuffi ng, and mashed potatoes on Thanksgiving, health, our life, and having the basic necessities. It is holiday that does not discriminate; you we like to have our Middle Eastern touch added on. My big fat Middle Eastern Thanksgiv- can originate from anywhere in the world and still celebrate this American holiday in your own ing folks! We love having the American style meal, but we cannot go with out some Persian way. So I say to you and to your family; “Happy Thanksgiving and please pass the Tabouli salad!” November 2013 • Page 22 www.al-sahafa.us www.al-sahafa.us November 2013 • Page 23 Kobe Washington 9.5x10.5inc.ai 1 10/23/13 4:39 PM

November 2013 • Page 24 www.al-sahafa.us