WWW.YaMICHIGAN.COM Arab AmericanOasis h a p p y Ramadan
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EDITION NO.8 VOLUME: 1
A WEEKLY DIGITAL BUSINESS MAGAZINE May 2019
Welcome Yamichigan.com is the fastest growing digital business magazine in the Middle Eastern American Communities in Michigan, serving Wayne, Macomb, Oakland and Washtenaw counties.
Since 2012, we have focused our news Ya Michigan delivery on cellphones and tablets. Our popular website features business, CONTENTS policy, real estate market, food and community news and information, and our effective e-newsletter reaches 5 From the editor ------5 thousands of readers every Tuesday. Inside the magazine ------67 Arab American Success ------78 We are proud of our services to the Hamadeh Education ------99 community, and we thank our sponsors ACCESS ------1110 for their support. House of condolences ------1211 Best coffee in town ------1313 Thank you for your trust in Ya Michigan, HYPE Athletics ------1515 and we ask you kindly to support us and Fresh daily bread ------1516 Feeding the soul ------1617 work together to serve our communities. Zaman International ------1718 www.yamichigan.com. ACC serving the community ------1819 Marshooshi ------2020 Home insurance tips ------2322 Home buying tips ------2624 Path to serenity ------2725 Auto insurance tips ------2927 Lebanese General Consul ------3028 Car maintenance tips ------3129 Nizam Pastry feast ------3330 Editor/ Publisher Section Editor Choucair Hair Salon ------3432 Khalil Hachem John Mulcahy Ramadan message ------3536 Healthy food for Ramadan ------3637 All rights reserved. No part of this Best drinks for Ramadan ------3741 publication may be reproduced in any Best sohoor ------44 form without the prior permission of Ramadan manual ------45 the management of Yamichigan.com. Calendar ------3947 Copyright 2019 Yamichigan.com.
Special Edition May 2019 5
From the editor
As we embark on the holy support, this guide could not Sponsors include: Kroger, month of Ramadan, the Ya have been possible. We also Dearborn Fresh Supermarket, Michigan group congratulates thank our contributors who Papaya Fruit Market, Care the different communities in shared their thoughts and Pediatrics, Wayne County Michigan on the season of experiences. Treasurer Eric Sabree, Byblos fasting, wishing everyone a We have distributed 5,000 Banquets, House2Home safe and productive Ramadan magazines in the community, Inspection Services, Prime experience. Ramadan begins and we will email an electronic Lending, Hometown Group around May 5 and ends around copy every week during the Realty, The Signature Group June 4, depending on the moon month of Ramadan for viewing Reality, Palm Pharmacy, cycle. and downloading. We are Infiniti One Group, Lava working with several Lounge, Garden Foods This year, we are organizations to maximize our Distributing, Fairlane Carwash, expanding the 2019 print electronic reach to up to 32,000 Venture Title Agency and edition to highlight the success readers. Betsy’s Bridal and Formal. of the community on different Contributors include: Dr. fronts and to include a wide If you wold like additional M o h a m m a d A j j o u r , variety of information and tips. copies, please call Productivemuslims.com, Dr. 313-819-0101. If you would Hoda Amine, Susan Carland, We thank our sponsors who like to see an electronic version Dearborn Police Department, helped fund this project. of the guide, please visit online research and public Without their generous www.yamichigan.com information and John Mulcahy.
Yamichigan.com, a weekly digital business magazine, delivering news and information directly to your smartphone or tablet.
Our website receives millions of hits a year, and our weekly e-newsletter reaches thousands of clients every Tuesday morning. www.yamichigan.com
In This Issue
The Middle Eastern American community in Michigan is very successful and has grown in numbers and strength. We have included faces of the community in this edition to illustrate its success. Starting on Page 8.
Ramadan is the month of fast, prayer, mercy and giving during which Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn until dark. Health, nutrition and activity tips. Starting on Page 36
Sweets and thirst-quenching drinks during vary from country to another, but most people seem to agree on two popular drinks and sweets during the month of fast. Page 41-46
Although Ramadan is the month of fast, most Muslims spend more time preparing food and hosting family and friends during Ramadan than at any other time of the year. Here are some recipes for Ramadan Page 39
Insurance has become a new tax on home owners and drivers, and rates are rising very fast and in some case are out of control. Auto and home insurance tips while maintaining good protection. Page 26 - 27
Car maintenance is necessary but sometime is challenging for some of us. Tips to maintain your vehicle during the four seasons, including, tire rotation, AC check, oil change and other maintenance. Page 29
Mobile devices are invading homes and businesses, from doorbells that transfer images and videos, to smart lights and appliances. A guide on how to transform your home into a smart home. Page 33 Special Edition May 2019 8
Arab American Success
The Middle Eastern dilapidated strips into Recently, a large number of American community in successful business districts, students have been accepted to Michigan is very successful and have converted average ivy league schools, and the and has grown in numbers and houses into sprawling homes, number of doctors, engineers, strength, climbing to more than tripling residential value and pharmacists and high profile a half million people in the reviving neighborhoods. professionals has reached a four-county area. record high of more than 1,000. Fadwa A recent study estimates Hammoud, Wayne that Middle-Eastern Americans first woman County generate more than $6 billion solicitor Circuit in salaries and contribute about general in Judge Hilal $200 million in taxes to the Michigan Farhat state of Michigan.
Nearly 4 million Americans On the political front, they trace their roots to the Middle have help elect state house Adel Mozip, East. They are found in every representatives, Rashida Tlaib recently state, but more than two thirds as the first Arab-American appointed to of them live in just ten states: woman in the U.S. Congress, the Dearborn Board of California, Michigan, New and five circuit and district Education York, Florida, Texas, New court judges, including recent Jersey, Illinois, Ohio, appointee Hilal Farhat. Immigrants are Pennsylvania, and Virginia. entrepreneurs by nature, and Metropolitan Los Angeles, Middle Eastern Americans are Detroit, and New York are no different. Successful home to one-third of the business districts stretch along population. Warren Avenue, Michigan State Rep. Avenue, Telegraph Road, Ford Abdullah Road, Dix Avenue and Seven 13th Hammoud Mile Road. Congressional Gov. Gretchen Whitmer Private and charter schools District appointed local attorney Fadwa are teeming with students. Representative Hammoud as the first woman Civic and community Rashida Tlaib and the first Arab American to organizations have reached become a solicitor general in more than 30. We are proud of Michigan is distinguished the state. the success of the community, by having the largest Several people are serving and we will highlight some of concentration of Middle as county commissioners, city that success in this edition Eastern Americans in one area. council members and board of under the title “Faces of the They have turned vacant and education trustees. community.” Special Edition May 2019 9
Faces of the community Passion for eduction fosters success for school founder, community Children are the future of students, and the schools have the community and several been recognized as one of the people have started schools and top 15 schools in the state and educational institutions in have received numerous Southeast Michigan. Hamadeh awards. Educational Services (HES) is With more than 30 years of one of those schools, providing experience in education in the a safe and rich environment for United States and abroad, the students to learn and break influence of Mrs. Hamadeh barriers. shines through HES in serving The story of HES starts students. with its president and CEO, “It all started with a Mrs. Nawal Hamadeh, who dream…a dream to establish founded the organization to schools where students not provide top quality education only master academic skills, services. Her passion and HES founder, president and CEO but also have a holistic diligence led to the current four Mrs. Nawal Hamadeh learning experience for the schools that HES operates in mind, body and the soul,” Mrs. Dearborn Heights, Westland, HES employs about 400 Hamadeh said. “The world is Sterling Heights and Detroit. people and enrolls 3,300 shaped in our classrooms.” Special Edition May 2019 10
Faces of the community ACCESS: 47 years of helping to make the transition easy
Immigrating to a different country requires ample adaptation to culture, laws and Hassan Maha Freij norms, and ACCESS has been Jaber CFO and on the forefront of helping CEO and Deputy Arab Americans make that Executive Executive journey for 47 years. Director Director Founded by a group of volunteers in 1971, ACCESS community nonprofit in the The agency has founded (Arab Community Center for United States. With 11 the Arab American National Economic and Social Services) locations and more than 120 Museum, the National Network has helped Arab immigrants programs serving metro for Arab American adapt to life in the United Detroit, ACCESS offers a wide Communities, and the Center States. range of social, economic, for Arab American Today, ACCESS is the health and educational services Philanthropy. ACCESS serves largest Arab-American to a diverse population. all Americans. Special Edition May 2019 11
Faces of the community Charity at its best: House of condolence for everyone
Joe Bazzi and his brothers converted an empty church on Chase Road in Dearborn into the House of Condolences, which is open to people of all faiths and denominations to commemorate their loved ones free of charge.
Joe Bazzi, owner of Byblos Banquet in Dearborn
The church closed and the Bazzis embarked on the project to honor the memory of their late father, Haj Jamil Bazzi, who passed away in 2014. Located at 7350 Chase Road in Dearborn, the building is also known as the Haj Jamil Community Center, with the main purpose of providing a place for families to mourn their loved ones without worrying about cost, Bazzi said.
The two-story building accommodates 400 people. It provides free services and offers ample parking spaces and a designated area for prayers and refreshments.
What: House of Condolences Legacy: Dedicated to the late Hajj Jamil Bazzi Address: 7350 Chase Road, Dearborn MI 48126 Service: Free rent for memorial services
For more information, call 313-310-9900 wǀɰ͗úźʣȨǀȪɰ͗úȖźȪ ĔGśĔ ²GþĔĆ̱ őźʣȪǀ͗6ȵʀȪɰʣ͗Ĕɜǀźɤʀɜǀɜ GɜǾƱ͗Ćźưɜǀǀ͗ǾȪɰɜȵƸʀƱǀɤ ͏úɜȵȐǀƱɰ͗Ĕźʢ͗½ǀɤɤźDzǀ̯͐͗ź ǰɜǀǀ͗ɰǀʢɰ͗ȨǀɤɤźDzǾȪDz͗ɤǀɜʗǾƱǀ ƸǀɤǾDzȪǀƸ͗ɰȵ͗ɜǀȨǾȪƸ͗ɰźʢəźʣǀɜɤ źưȵʀɰ͗ʀəƱȵȨǾȪDz͗əźʣȨǀȪɰɤ̵
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Faces of the community Best coffee in town: A long family tradition, with a Yemeni flavor
Coffee started in Yemen thousands of years ago, and no one knows that story better than Ibrahim Al Hasbani, owner of Qahwah House in Dearborn. His work is filled with passion, tradition and creation, brewing the best coffee in town. Al Hasbani, who grew up in Yemen, worked with his family in the coffee business. He imports coffee beans from Yemen and brews a fresh cup for his customers in the United States with style and authentic presentation. The Yemeni coffee I tasted was excellent: Freshly brewed medium roast coffee with cardamon and sugar, served in traditional Arabic coffee cups. If you make it to the store, try the Yemeni tea that includes fine tea, milk, nutmeg and cardamon. Or you can sample the Yemeni latte, which is full of flavor and design and includes coffee, ginger, cinnamon and cardamon. Drinking coffee at the Qahwah House is an experience by itself.
What: Qahwah House Where: 6655 Schaefer Road, Dearborn, MI 48126. Opens late in Ramadan Engagement Parties - Bridal Showers - Retirement Parties - Ceremony and Wedding Receptions - Social & Special Themed Events - Fundraisers - School/ Community Functions Reunions - Communions - Anniversaries - Business Functions - Meetings - Conferences & Seminars - Sales/Staff Training - Presentations / Corp - Receptions Special Edition May 2019 15
Faces of the community HYPE Athletics: Sports with a safe environment for the youth In January 2001, Ali Sayed mobilized young leaders, the business community, industry professionals and elected officials to support drug-free, violence-free and diverse programs that advocated for tolerance, unity and acceptance among the many races, religions and ethnicities of the region.
Ali Sayed, founder of HYPE Athletics
Today, HYPE Athletics is a nonprofit, community-based organization, partnering with federal, state and local agencies, corporations, foundations and leaders to provide sport services and community programs. Sports programs include basketball, volleyball, soccer, swimming, boxing, marshal arts, adult and youth leagues and youth camps. Community programs Assistance, Reading and Math Programs, Teach and Feed Green include Feed Detroit, Tutor House Project and much more. Challenge, Youth and Adult Athletic Programs, Fitness and HYPE also offers a full workout gym, a lady’s only workout, Health Services and Education vocational training, preventative health programs, summer camps with ACT / SAT Support, Career and after-school programs. and Leadership Development, Mentoring, Life Skills, Drug It operates at two locations: 23302 Warren Avenue, Dearborn Prevention and Homework Heights, MI 48127 and 4634 Howe Road, Wayne , MI 48184. Special Edition May 2019 16
Faces of the community Saj Alreef: Baking a great recipe for bread and breakfast
In the old days, most families living in the countryside in Lebanon made their own bread on a concave oven called a Sajj. The bread is paper thin, and called markook bread. Skillful neighborhood women prepared hundreds of pieces every week for their families. The smell of freshly baked markook wafted through the neighborhoods as we walked to school or to the store, and generous neighbors would offer passersby fresh bread. The taste is heavenly, and it tasted better every time. In America, a few people have ventured to make their own markook bread, but most people buy it from the store. A score of women make the bread at home and sell it to the various stores in the area.
But Talal Abbass, owner of Alreef Bakery is providing fresh markook every day. Located at 5902 Schaefer Road in Dearborn, Alreef Bakery produces some of the best markook bread and breakfast items in town. He said his bread is healthy, prepared by a handful of hard working women on the scene. The variety includes plain bread, bread with zaatar, cheese, meat, veggies or other toppings for breakfast and lunch. All delicious, all great. His recipe is simple: Honesty, friendly service and generosity. Saj Alreef: 5902 Schaefer Road, Dearborn, MI 48126 Special Edition May 2019 17
Faces of the community Feeding the soul: ICA volunteers bake sweet aromatic cookies Every Friday, the sweet smell of spices and freshly baked kaaks wafts through the hallways of the Islamic Center of America. As the faithful file in Volunteers at the ICA for prayer, bags of golden make thousands of cookies kaaks await them for every year and sell them to purchase. Kaaks are large the community to raise sweet cookies, made with a money for the mosque. It is variety of spices including a 50-year old tradition, and anise seeds, cloves, recipes are passed from nutmeg, cinnamon and one generation to another. sesame seeds. Volunteers take pride in Kaaks, also known as making the kaaks, and Kaak El Eid or Kaak El community members await Abass, are traditionally the cookies every year. made during the major Islamic holidays. Special Edition May 2019 18
Faces of the community Zaman International: Empowering the poor for a better future Zaman International serves bank, a culinary arts marginalized women, children training center and nutritional and families by providing classes. essential needs to empower In 2018, Zaman distributed them to break the cycle of 170,400 pounds of food, poverty and propel themselves collected 886,950 pounds of toward a better future. clothing, provided more than The story of Zaman began 7,750 hours of job skills and in 1996 when Najah Bazzi, a literacy instruction to more nurse at the time, visited the than 90 women, and gave 268 home of a dying infant and winter coats and 895 school witnessed the the hardship his supply-filled backpacks to immigrant parents endured. Bazzi then turned to the local children. community to help the grief Meanwhile, Zaman joined Najah Bazzi, -stricken family with furniture, with 444 community partners founder and food, clothing and household and funded overseas relief CEO of goods. She later formalized her projects bringing safe water Zaman efforts and Zaman began. and humanitarian relief to more International than 431,900 people. Zaman started adding Zaman is a pillar in the The parents lived in programs to help the poor, community, helping the absolute poverty. The family growing into a helpless and empowering the used a picnic cooler for a 40,500-square-foot building in needy, under the leadership of refrigerator to house the baby Inkster. Programs include a Najah Bazzi. To help, call formula and the little food they mobile pantry, a crisis center, a Zaman at 313-551-3994. had; they cooked on a portable resale shop, a community food propane stove; laundry baskets covered with cloth and towels served as a bed for the dying child and a flimsy hospital blanket kept him warm. The family had no money; they could not even pay for the burial of their infant. Bazzi raised money from the community to pay for the burial, inaugurating the beginning of Plots for Tots, that later became Zaman's signature program, providing dignified burial for families who have lost a fetus or infant. Special Edition May 2019 19
Faces of the community ACC: Bridging the gaps for a better, stable community
Chaldeans are consultant and developed a The project includes art Aramaic-speaking, Eastern passion for helping new galleries, artisan shops, Arabic Rite Catholics with a history immigrants settle in the United restaurants, a spice market and spanning more than 5,000 States. an old Souk model, fostering a years dating back to Dr. Fakhouri led a group of vibrant commercial district that Mesopotamia, which was supporters and established the benefits the metropolitan known as the cradle of ACC 35 years ago. The ACC Detroit area. civilization and is the grew from a single office in Dr. Fakhouri and the ACC present-day Iraq. downtown Detroit to 40 have been very successful in outreach offices and a helping immigrants settle in the multi-million dollar operation Detroit area, bridging the gaps in the state. between the Arab-American Dr. Haifa community and the larger Fakhouri, Dr. Fakhouri’s success American community. President working with immigrants The ACC is located at 363 and CEO positioned her for a W. Big Beaver Road, Suite $36-million ongoing project to #300, Troy, MI 48084. An estimated 160,000 revitalize part of Detroit into For more information, call Chaldeans call the an Arabic village. the ACC at 248-559-1990. metropolitan Detroit area home. They have created successful communities, contributing more than $10.7 billion annually to Michigan’s economy. Over the years, the community has created several organizations to serve the influx of immigrants and help them adjust to their lives in the United States, including the Arab American and Chaldean Council (ACC), which was started by Dr. Haifa Fakhouri. A graduate of Wayne State University, Dr. Fakhouri served as an advisor to the U.S. Agency for International Development and the United Nations as an international Special Edition May 2019 20
Faces of the community Dearborn Pizza: Home of the best marshooshi in town
If you have not had Farid and Yahya Sleiman marshooshi from of Bint Jbeil mastered the Dearborn Pizza, you do dish and have been not know what you are serving it for 20 years at missing. The dough is Dearborn Pizza at 14406 crunchy; the creme is W. Warren Ave., pleasant, and the syrup is Dearborn, MI 48126. just right. Prices vary depending on Marshooshi traces its the size and whether origin to Bint Jbeil in pistachio is used or not. If South Lebanon. Dessert you have not had makers baked shredded marshooshi, make your dough, filled it with cream way to Dearborn Pizza and soaked it with simple this Ramadan. It makes a For more information, call Dearborn Pizza syrup. great gift. at 313-846-9420.
Special Edition May 2019 22
How to save on home insurance and maximize protection
Saving money on home insurance is just as • Claim free discount. This is discount for not important as saving on car insurance. The making claims. Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial • Nonsmoker discount. Services (DIFS) publishes a booklet titled “Your • New home discount. Guide to Homeowners Insurance for Michigan • Credit-based insurance score discount. Consumers.” The booklet is a good primer on Improving your credit score could lower your subjects from types of policies and coverage to insurance rate. claim settlement and understanding rates and • Multi-policy discount. Buying more than premiums. It is available online at: one policy from the same company may qualify https://www.michigan.gov/documents/cis_ofis_03 you for a discount. homegd_74854_7.pdf • Protective devices smoke detectors, fire Several tips for reducing home insurance extinguishers, alarms and heavy duty locks. costs included in the booklet are the same as for reducing car insurance costs. 1. Shop around. You may be surprised at how much money you can save if you pick up the phone or go online to obtain quotes from several companies. 2. Increase deductibles. You may want to consider the largest deductible your budget can handle to lower your premium, but remember, in You can find more tips on how to save money the event you make a claim, you will have to pay on home insurance from the Insurance the deductible before you get any money from the Information Institute at insurance company. https://www.iii.org/article/how-to-save-money-on 3. Discounts. Companies may offer premium -your-homeowners-insurance discounts based on factors that are likely to DIFS also offers an online service to help you reduce losses or expenses. Each insurance find auto or home insurance agents statewide at company sets the amount of discounts it offers. https://difs.state.mi.us/locators?searchtype=InsCo Common discounts offered by many companies mpany include: If you feel an insurance agency has illegally • Paid in full discount. You pay your annual told you that you are not qualified for insurance, insurance premium all at once instead of in or if you have other disputes with an agency that installments. you cannot solve by talking to them, you can call • Mature homeowner discount (age of DIFS for help at 877-999-6442. maturity varies by insurance company). Happy Ramadan From Our Family To Yours
3 Special Edition May 2019 24
Faces of the community
Buying your first home: Here are some recommendations The demand for housing in Talk to a mortgage professional legal work. Dearborn and Dearborn and get pre-approval before 3- Select a neighborhood Heights is very strong. More your look for a house. where you would like to live. people are moving into the 2- Hire a professional to 4- Agree with your spouse area, and the number of homes guide you through your biggest on what kind of a home you on the market is at a record investment. Online information want: Style, flow and size. low, creating a great seller’s can help, but it is general in 5- Ask questions and market and putting pressure on nature and most of the time it is understand every piece of buyers, especially first-time not accurate. paper before signing. Look for buyers. Hire a real estate an agent who will keep you Are you frustrated? Here professional you trust, someone updated and provide you the are some tips: who knows the market and information you need. 1- Take care of the finances knows the process. Buying a Remember: You drive that first. Make sure you can afford home involves a lot of hidden relationship. the home. Learn how to budget. dangers and requires ample Happy House Hunting. Special Edition May 2019 25
Faces of the community
Path to Serenity Hajj Nasr Moussa enjoys the outdoors and has created one of the best back yards in the city.
A fire pit for night seatings. A gazebo for private gatherings and pathways and bricks throughout. Special Edition May 2019 26
Managing the cost of auto insurance while ensuring protection Car insurance is an uments/cis_ofis_ip201_25082_ it if you own your car outright important part of many 7.pdf. (that is, don’t owe money on people’s budget. While rates Some tips in the booklet it). But remember, if you don’t for any individual or family are: have collision coverage and can vary significantly, • Think about the cost of you have an accident, you will everyone can benefit from insurance before you purchase have to pay for repairs trying to get the best deal while a car. Some models are much yourself. still protecting his- or herself less expensive to insure than legally and financially. others. • Increase your deductible. “How to Reduce the Cost • Shop around. All A deductible on your policy is of Your Car Insurance,” a insurance companies do not the amount you agree to pay booklet published by the charge the same amount. Call toward the cost of repairs Michigan Department of more than one company or before the insurance company Insurance and Financial agent to compare prices and has to pay anything. The bigger Services (DIFS), offers tips on coverage. your deductible, the more you how to reduce car insurance • Compare collision can save on premiums, but also costs. The booklet is available coverage choices. Collision the more you’ll pay before online at coverage is not required by law receiving an insurance payout. https://www.michigan.gov/doc and you can choose not to buy Please see page 27 Special Edition May 2019 27
Insurance from page 26 • Ask your agent about الصديق الوفي coordinating your car and health insurance. If you can coordinate, your auto policy إنّ النسان ل يكتمل وحده هناك أشياء تمنحه الكتمال ومن أهمها الصديق، فهو will pay only for costs that your health policy does not قطعة من الروح تسكن داخلنا، يمنحنا الضياء إلى آخر النفق، يهدينا طريق cover, and your car insurance الصواب، ول يترك البؤس يعترينا ول خيط حزن يقطع دربنا، إنّه الخليل في .premium will go down الواقف الصعبة واللحظات العصيبة، إنّه حياة جميلة ل يدركها إ لّ الصدقاء Medicare, Medicaid and العظماء. Medicare supplemental insurance policies are not eligible for such coordination. • Ask about group policies. Many insurers offer lower rates to employees or members of certain organizations. • Ask your agent about discounts. Many insurers offer discounts for safety devices or for having more than one type of policy with the same company. You may also be eligible for a discount if you have two or more policies with the same insurance company. • Consider dropping some coverage not required by law, such as collision or comprehensive coverage on an older car, or uninsured motorist, car rental, or towing coverage. Before you do this, make sure you understand what it will mean in the event of an accident. A good overall guide to buying car insurance is “Your Guide to Automobile Insurance for Michigan Consumers,” also published by DIFS. The booklet is available online at: https://www.michigan.gov/docum ents/difs/Auto_Insurance_Guide_4 48003_7.pdf Special Edition May 2019 28
Faces of the community
Consul General of Lebanon brings new energy to the community
Since her arrival into the community a few years ago, the Lebanese Consul General Suzan Mouzi Yassine has been very busy, participating in an array of events, bringing the community together to discuss important issues, such as education and the opioid crisis, moving the consulate from Detroit to Southfield, holding a successful film festival, facilitating Lebanese elections and raising her young family. Ms. Yassine has brought a new energy to a mundane job. We appreciate her efforts and dedication. We also appreciate the staff at the consulate who work very diligently to serve the community. Special Edition May 2019 29
Take care of your vehicle, it will not let you down
We depend on our cars determine the amount of wear 6. Inspect all lights and everyday, and simple on brake pads and drums. replace any burned out bulbs. maintenance whether we do it 5. Check all fluids and fill Periodically clean insects from ourselves or having done by as necessary. all lenses. professional can protect our 6. Take out and wash all 7. Clean corrosion from investment and ensure floor liners. Vacuum and clean battery posts and cable reliability. Here are some tips the carpets. connections. Make sure all from online research to take connections and hold-down care of your vehicles: hardware are secure. Summer 1. If your air conditioning Fall and winter system is not blowing 1. Make sure you have sufficient cold air, have the plenty of windshield washer system examined by a fluid, and buy fluid formulated qualified technician. especially for winter use. 2. Flush and refill the 2. Make sure the heater and cooling system at the interval defroster are in good working specified by your car’s condition. manufacturer. Check the 3. Have your car’s exhaust condition of drive belts and system checked for leaks, and accessory hose clamps. Never the trunk and floorboards remove a radiator cap until the examined for small holes. engine has cooled. 4. Consider getting snow 3. Change your oil and oil tires for maximum traction Spring filter at the interval and safety. 1. Replace snow tires with recommended by your car’s 5. Carry emergency gloves, non-snow tires. Rotate manufacturer. boots, blankets, flares, a small all-season radial tires. 4. Replace other filters such shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire 2. Check and if necessary as the air, fuel and cabin PCV chains and a flashlight. Put a replace windshield wiper filters as recommended, more few “high-energy” snacks in blades. frequently in dusty conditions. your glove box. 3. Clean your car’s Attend to difficult starts, rough This material is for underbody and check for signs idling, stalling and diminished information only. We of rust, especially around power problems. recommend that you consult bumpers and wheel wells. 5. Replace worn wiper with a mechanic if you are 4. Listen for brake noises blades. Washer fluid not familiar with safety such as grinding, chatter or formulated for summer aids in procedures for car squeals. Ask your mechanic to bug removal. maintenance. Special Edition May 2019 30
Faces of the community Nizam Pastry: Arabic sweets with passion and superb taste From Baklava to cakes and cookies, Nizam Pastry is a feast for the eye and the stomach. Though known for the best Arabic sweets in town, owner Ali Nizam’s specialty is wedding cakes. He crafts every one with the precision of a jeweler and the hands of an artist. The result is a cake to remember for a special occasion. The secret to his work is experience and the ingredients, he said. Using good ingredients yields excellent products, he said. Like many immigrants who own pastry stores in Michigan, Nizam learned the craft in his native land, in his case in Lebanon in 1992. He honed his skills and developed a following in the Dearborn area for cakes and Arabic sweets.
For Ramadan, he focuses on the traditional Ramadan sweets, such as kellage, and Katayaf among other items. Kellage is fried pastry with creme and katayaf is fried or Nizam Pastry is baked dough similar to at 6620 Schaefer pancake dough and stuffed Road, Dearborn, either with walnuts or special MI 48126. creme. Whatever you order at Nizam Pastry, whether for a For more simple treat or for a special information call occasion, you will be happy. (313) 703-1111 Special Edition May 2019 31
فوّض أمرك ل فى كل ش
سورة يوسف نزلت في عام الحزن .. هي السورة الوحيدة في *- أن تنتبه أيها الؤمن، إلى أن تسيير الكون شيءٌ فوق مستوى القرآن، التي تقص قصة كاملة بكل لقطاتها .. لذلك قال ال إدراكك .. فل تشغل نفسك به ودعه لخالقه يسيِره كما يشاء .. وفق تعالى عنها: *أنه سيقص على النبي )صلى ال عليه وعلى آله عِلمه وحِكمته.* وسلم( "أحْ سنَ القَصَص"*. *- فإذا رأيت أحداث اً تُصيبُ بالحباط ولم تفهم الحكمة منها فل تيأس وهي أحسن القصص بالفعل كما يقول علماء الدب، وخاصة ول تتذمَر .. بل ثِق في تدبير ال، فهو مالك هذا الُلك وهو خير مُدبّر.* التخصصي في علم القصة .. فهي تبدأ بحلم، وتنتهي بتفسير هي أكثر السور التي تحدَثت عن اليأس. هذا الحلم .. - قال تعالى : من الطريف أن قميص يوسف: **فلمَا اس تَيأسوا منهُ خَلَصوانَ جِيَا )٨٠(*. *- اس تُخدم كأداة براءة لخوته .. فدل على خيانتهم.* **ول تيأسوا مِن رَوحِ ال .. إنَهُ ل ي ي أ سُ مِن رَوحِ ال إل القومُ الكافِرون *- ثم اس تُخدم كأداة براءة بعد ذلك ليوسف نفسه مع إمرأة )٨٧(*. العزيز فبرَأه.* *حتى إذا استيأس ا ل رس لُ وظَ نُوا أنَهُم قد كُ ذِبوا جاءَهُم نَصرُنا )١١٠(.* *- ثم استخدم للبشارة .. فأعاد ال تعالى به بصر والده.* - وكأنها تقول لك أيُها الؤمن: نلحظ أن معاني القصة متجسِ دة .. وكأنك تراها بالصوت • إن الَ قادر . والصورة .. وهي من أجمل القصص التي يمكن أن تقرأها ومن • ف لِمَ اليأس؟ أبدع ما تتأثر به .. إن يوسف رغم كل ظروفه الصعبة، لم ييأس ولم يفقد المل . . فهي لكنها لم تجيء في القرآن لجرد رواية القصص .. وهدفها جاء قصة نجاح في الدنيا والخرة : في آخر سطر من القصة وهو: - في الدنيا: حي استطاع بفضل ال ثم بحكمته في التعامل مع ال لِك، *)إنَهُ مَن ي تَقِ ويَصبر، فإنَ الَ ليُضيعُ أجرَالُحسِ ني(* أن يُصبح عزيز مصر .. فمحور القصة الساسي هو: - وفي الخرة: حي تصدَى لمرأة العزيز ورفض الفاحشة ونجح .. - ثق في تدبير ال. - اصبر. لقد نزلت هذه السورة في عام الحزن على رسول ال صلى ال عليه - ل تي أ َس. واله و سلم في أشد أوقات الضيق وهو على وشك الهجرة وفراق مكة .. اللحظ أن السورة تمشي بوتيرة عجيبة .. مفادها أن الشيء :هذه السورة كما قال العلماء� الجميل، قد تكون نهايته سيئة والعكس..! *ما قرأها محزون ٌإل سُرِي عنه.تولى ال أمر يوسف، * *- فيوسف أبوه يحبه، وهو شيء جميل، فتكون نتيجة هذاالحب *فأحوج القافلة في الصحراء للماء .. ليخرجه من البئر!* أن يُلقى في البئر!* *ثم أحوج عزيز مصر للولد .. ليتبناه!* *- ثم اللقاء في البئرشيء فظيع .. فتكون نتيجته أن يُكرَم في *ثم أحوج اللك لتفسير الرؤيا..ليخرجه من السجن.* بيت العزيز.!* *ثم أحوج مصر كلها للطعام ... ليصبح عزيز مصر.* *- ثم الكرام في بيت العزيز شيء رائع .. فتكون نهايته أن إذا تولى ال أمرك .. هيأ لك كل أسباب السعادة وأنت لتشعر فقط قل يدخل يوسف السجن.!* بصدق *}وَأُفَوِضُ أَمْرِي إِلَى الَِ{ .* *- ثم أن دخول السجن شيءٌ بَشِ ع .. فتكون نتيجته أن يصبح فقط فوّض أمرك ل فى كل ش ...فى همك....فى صحتك... فى يوسف عزيز مصر.!* اولدك...فى احتياجاتك الالية....وتأكد ان ال معك. إذا حفظت أوامره. الهدف من ذلك: Special Edition May 2019 32
Faces of the community
Looking great at First Impression Hair Salon in Dearborn Toufic Choucair is more than a hair stylist; he is an artist and a genuine member of the community. Visiting his shop on Chase Road every month for a hair cut is a treat. He greets you with a smile and a warm hug and makes you feel that you are the most important person in the world. He always has interesting stories to tell and nutrition, gardening and cooking tips to share. When it comes to styling hair, he does not miss the smallest hair. You leave his place looking good and feeling better. His shop is one stop for style, connection and a friendly chat. The salon is at 5070 Chase Rd, Dearborn, MI 48126 Special Edition May 2019 33
Making your home smart: Stay on budget and have a plan
I sell homes for a living, and every time I enter a home with smart technology, I become more comfortable with the idea. We started with the lights, including smart lights in most of the house. The benefits include controlling them remotely and saving energy. Then we turned to heating, changing our thermostat, saving ample dollars on our monthly power bill. Also, a new technology is available to allow you to monitor fire hazards and carbon monoxide. For security, I consulted To control access to the limitations. Select the one with one of the free evaluation house, we are currently that best suits the design of services, and they surveying different locks that your house. recommended replacing the are wifi and bluetooth Smart technology is doorbell with a ring. It has compatible without the evolving, and new products been a great addition to the addition of services or are hitting the market every house, allowing us to monitor equipment. This technology is day. Keep in mind that there delivery, the mail and still developing, and hopefully are devices that would allow unwanted solicitors. There are by the time you are ready to you to make existing devices a lot of gadgets on the market install it on your house, you smart without replacing them. when it comes to cameras and will find a better selection. security, and experts When it comes to The most important thing recommend sticking to what vacuuming and smart trash is to make sure you have a you really need to avoid cans, there area several plan and buy products that are spending a lot of money or products on the market, compatible to simplify your complicating your life. offering benefits and life and save money. Special Edition May 2019 34
Faces of the community Zam Zam Bakery: Fresh daily bread, the Iraqi way
If you are looking for fresh bread every day, Zamzam Supermarket and Bakery on Chase Road in Dearborn is the place. Zamzam is an Iraqi market and it offers an array of products including Iraqi flat bread and Sammoon. The market also offers fried or baked fish and other delicatessen selections. My favorites are kaymar and date molasses. Kaymar is made of cow milk and tastes like cream, and date molasses is heavenly to use instead of syrup.
The market is located at 5817 Chase Rd; Dearborn, MI 48126 . Special Edition May 2019 35
Safe Driving Tips It takes only seconds for an accident to happen and your life could change forever. Recently, we have lost several young people from our community, and we asked the Dearborn Police Department to share with us a few tips on how to stay safe behind the wheel.
Stay focused • Discuss your teen’s responsibilities when Paying complete attention to driving is a lot driving a car or riding as a passenger. easier than it sounds. Try to avoid the following • Extend the period of supervised driving to behaviors, and if you must do any of these tasks, closely monitor skills and behaviors. pull over in a safe, well-lit area before doing so: • Give your teen practice driving on • Talking on a cell phone (even hands free). unfamiliar roads and in unfamiliar driving • Texting. conditions. • Taking notes or surfing the Internet. • Coach your teen on what to do in • Interacting with your passengers. potentially dangerous driving situations • Handling the radio. Let a passenger like poor weather conditions, rough roads, control the radio or if you are alone, set heavy traffic and running off the road. your iPod to shuffle and don’t touch it. • Enforce the teen passenger restrictions and the teen curfew law. Drive defensively • Reduce nighttime driving for the first few Just because you avoid texting or similar months your teen has a license. activities while you are behind the wheel doesn’t • Be sure your teen is well rested before mean you’re avoiding distracted driving driving. altogether. Driving defensively is a huge part of • Ask your teen questions and be ready to avoiding auto accidents. listen. • Avoid gawking at car accidents on the side of the road. The 5 Keys to Safe Driving • Always check your rear view mirrors. 1. No cell phone use or texting while driving • Stay alert to construction zones and 2. No extra passengers changing traffic. 3. No speeding • Allow enough time for other drivers to 4. No alcohol and/or drugs see your turn signal. 5. No driving or riding without a seat belt Lead by example. Your teen will mimic your driving behaviors. Special Edition May 2019 36
Ramadan, the month of fast, peace, giving and mercy
What: Ramadan is the ninth They break fast with a meal at Thanksgiving Day for Muslims month of the Islamic lunar night called iftar and allocate for completing the month of fast calendar. It begins with the time for prayers and and renewing their spiritual sighting of the new moon or at supplications during the day. connection. It is a major holiday the beginning of the lunar End of Ramadan festival: At and it includes family month. the end of the month, Muslims gatherings, visitations, gifts and How: Fasting is a total observe Eidul-Fiter, which is a celebrations. abstention from eating, drinking, smoking and sexual activities from dawn until dark. On the spiritual side, Muslims are asked to avoid immoral behavior and anger and show compassion. Purpose: The intention of fasting is to develop spiritual consciousness, self-control and improvement of health by reducing or eliminating impurities from the body. It also includes becoming aware of the plight of the poor, hungry and sick. It is a month of spiritual awareness and of a high sense of social responsibility. Who: All healthy Muslims must observe the fasting season. The sick, travelers, children and others are exempted from fasting and can make up the fast at later days. Consult with your imam on the conditions of breaking the fast and whether your children should fast or not. Components: Most Muslims wake up before dawn for suhoor to eat before beginning the fast. Special Edition May 2019 37
Five healthy foods for Ramadan, easy and available Dates contain a unique blend of glucose deep sea cod, sea bass, ahi tuna, mahi and fructose and have a very high potassium mahi, and tilapia. content (about 64% more than bananas). They have a nutrient called beta-D-glucan, Figs contain key minerals such as which is a soluble fiber that has health calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium. benefits and can increase the feeling of They are also a great source of fiber and fullness. can support healthy blood sugar levels. Raw, unfiltered honey contains many phytochemicals and flavonoids that can Olive oil contains omega 9 or oleic fatty enhance health. Honey is very good for acids and has been shown to increase increasing energy. It is an excellent source of good cholesterol while lowering bad antioxidants and has anti-bacterial effects. cholesterol. Look for extra virgin olive oil Take 1-2 tablespoons daily. (cold-pressed). Cooking with it can lower Fish has positive effects on health. The some of its benefits. Add it to food after fish oils EPA and DHA have been shown to the food is cooked. improve brain function, enhance The content of this article is for information cardiovascular health, and reduce purposes only. Please consult a physician inflammation, among other things. Some of before starting any nutrition, training, or the best fish are cold water wild salmon, supplementation program. orange roughy, - Online research. Special Edition May 2019 38
Health benefits of fasting, medical and psychological
By Dr. Mohamed Ajjour M.D. good long-term weight loss Other health benefits FACC strategy. include boosting the immune 7. Boosting immunity: A system by motivating the stem Fasting offers many health balanced diet along with the cells to promote regeneration of benefits including: elimination of toxins and a damaged tissues and promote reduction in fats as well as an healing of organs that may have 1. Eliminating of toxins in the increase in fruit intake could been damaged by chemotherapy. body: Most processed foods boost immunity. It could also benefit elderly contain additives, which may 8. Overcoming addictions: people who have poor health and become toxins and are later Fasting plays a key role in are affected by various diseases stored in a form of body fat. helping addicts to reduce by prompting the creation of new By fasting, the fat is burned their cravings for nicotine, white blood cells, regenerating and the toxins are eliminated. alcohol and caffeine, as well the immune system. 2. Resolving inflammatory as other substances. response: Fasting promotes Note: This article is intended the resolution of Pregnant women, nursing for informational use only. This is inflammatory diseases such as mothers, malnourished people, not medical advice, and readers arthritis, skin diseases such as and individuals with heart, kidney are urged to consult their doctors psoriasis, and bowel diseases or liver problems should consult before fasting. such as ulcerative colitis. their physicians before fasting. 3. Reducing blood sugar: Psychological benefits Fasting increases the • Feeling hunger and thirst every breakdown of sugar, and day for a month fosters reduces the production of compassion for those who are insulin. less fortunate and 4. Increasing fat breakdown: underprivileged. When the amount of sugar in • It allows one to build a sense of the body is low, fat is broken self-control and willpower, down, which releases energy. which can be beneficial throughout life in dealing with 5. Correcting high blood temptations and peer pressure. pressure: Fasting is a Through fasting, Muslims learn non-drug method to reduce to control their natural urges blood pressure and the risk of such as hunger and thirst, and clogging of the arteries. thus are able to better resist 6. Promoting rapid weight temptations for things which loss: By fasting, the storage are not necessary, such as drugs of fats in the body is reduced. or other unhealthy or harmful However, fasting is not a substances and behaviors. Special Edition May 2019 39
Favorite Ramadan dishes filled with nutrients and tradition
For as long as I remember, it has been a tradition for my family to prepare split lentil soup, fatoush and dates for breaking the fast during Ramadan every day. After a little research, I found that has been a good and healthy tradition: Dates are rich in fiber, natural sugar, magnesium, potassium and other necessary key nutrients. In some countries, they offer yogurt and honey to break the fast along with dates, and it is delicious.
Starting iftar or dinner with soup helps to replenish the fluids lost while fasting during the day, and soups are a rich source of vitamins and minerals which are essential to our body. Fatoush, which includes a variety of hydrating vegetables, helps digestion and keeping the skin healthy. Special Edition May 2019 40
Beating bad breath Getting your children to Fasting can cause the mouth to become dry and could enjoy Ramadan produce bad breath. Dr. Ali Sobh recommends the following: He said bad breath can result from poor dental health Getting children to habits and can be made worse by the food we eat. Foods enjoy Ramadan is a with strong odors, such as garlic and onions, can produce challenge. Here are bad breath, and flossing and brushing can help minimize the some tips: effects. Dr. Sobh recommends brushing and flossing • Make it festive: regularly to remove food remains and minimize bad breath. Buy decoration He also recommends visiting the dentist at least twice a year • Start a Ramadan to keep teeth and gums healthy and avoid tooth decay. calendar Here are some recommendations to minimize bad breath during Ramadan. If bad breath and bad taste persists, see • Plan Ramadan your medical doctor because this could be a sign of health goals issues. • Get the kids to give to the needy • Eat healthy food. • Get crafty and involve the kids • Clean your tongue. • Enjoy Ramadan and set an example • Brush your teeth normally during Ramadan. • Plan special time for the eid • Floss, use mouthwash or a Siwak. • Read the Quran, memorize a chapter • Remember to drink plenty of water. • Learn Arabic, reading and writing • Cook together and help serve the food
أفكار عملية .. حاول إنجازها في شهر رمضان
سماحة السيد محمد باقر الكشميري الوكيل الشرعي للمرجعية الدينية العليا في امريكا الشمالية
أن ترسل بطاقة تهنئة بحلول شهر رمضان ويوم العيد السعيد الى جميع أقربائك وأصدقائك دونما استثناء، وحاول تناسي الاضي مهما كان لتفتح صفحة جديدة في حياتك. أن تدعُ عدداً من أصدقائك على كاسة شاي أو قهوة، وادع عالم دين كفوء لناقشة أمور رمضانية كعقيدة وفقه ومسائل حياتية تهم الشباب واليافعي. أن تقيم صلة الجماعة بأهلك وأسرتك بسبب شهر رمضان لعلها تكون س نّة حسنة لا بعد الشهر أيضا. أن تتلوا القرآن الكريم مع بعض أفراد أسرتك، فإنها فرصة لتقارب النفوس ولتصحيح القراءة لبعضنا البعض، ولتعطير أجواء النزل بالروح القدسية. أن تكون حلقة وصل بي من انقطعت صلتهم وروابطهم بسبب حب الدنيا وابتلءاتها، فشهر رمضان تتغير فيه النفوس وتكون على استعداد للصلح والصلح. وقد ورد في الحديث الشريف "صلح ذات البي أفضل من عامة الصلة والصيام". أن تساهم في التعريف عن دينك ومعتقدك لجيرانك واصدقائك من غير السلمي بتقديم طبق طعام أو حلو أثناء الفطار لتشعره بشعائرك السلمية مع بطاقة تعريف بالسلم والصيام بشكل شفاف وبسيط. Special Edition May 2019 41
Most popular thirst-quenching drinks during Ramadan
When it comes to thirst-quenching drinks during Ramadan, Qamar Eddine and Jallab are two of the favorite drinks during the fast season.
Qamar Eddine is basically made out of dried apricots. Syria is famous for producing the best Qamar Eddine, especially the city of Damascus. It is very simple to make. Most Middle Eastern markets sell dry sheets of Qamar Eddine. Cut them to pieces and ad warm water. Add sugar to desired sweetness and serve cold or room temperature. Qamar Eddin is rich in Vitamin A, calcium and iron. It tastes lovely, and it is very refreshing, especially after fasting all day long.
Jallab is a fruit syrup made mostly out of dates. Some jallab includes grape molasses. It is sold at most Middle Eastern stores. It is diluted to desired thickness and served cold with raisins and pine nuts.
Photos: Online research Special Edition May 2019 42
How to get your children to love and enjoy Ramadan
By Susan Carland days, and choose something local discount store and strung you can enjoy for a whole month. I them up in my living room. In Muslim countries, markets, purchased a range of colorful streets, media and the general Chinese paper lanterns from my Please see page 43 population foster an unmistakable sense of connection to Ramadan, but parents who live in western countries have always faced the challenge that there is little recognition of Ramadan outside their homes and it is difficult to excite the children and prepare them for this holy month. The challenge becomes more acute when parents try to compete with the activities of non-Muslim holidays.
Susan Carland published a story on the www.productivemuslims.com website, offering several ideas on how to get the entire family involved, fostering an opportunity for learning and sowing faith and tradition: 1- Buy Decorations: TELL YOUR REALTOR OR LOAN OFFICER YOU WANT THE Decorations remind everyone who Tell TITLEyour LADY realtor TO CLOSE or loanYOUR DEAL.ofcer ITS YOUR you CHOICE!want the enters the home that this is a “Title Lady” to close your deal. Its your choice! special time. Avoid balloons because they deflate within a few Special Edition May 2019 43
Children and Ramadan allowed to get the note or sweet 4- Get crafty: Crafts are a until Maghrib time, as this helps fantastic way for your children to From page 42 create a sense of excitement for get excited for Ramadan; it this time of day, even when they allows them to express their They were cheap, looked are too young to be fasting. creativity, learn and get messy at great, and were not the kind of decorations my kids automatically associated with other celebrations (such as tinsel for Christmas or balloons and streamers for birthdays). I also cover windows with Ramadan messages and drawings made with colored window chalk, and we have a special scented candle we light every night at Maghrib in Ramadan that changes color every few minutes. You know best what decorations will make your family happy, so go for it! Get everyone to help you decorate a day or two before the month starts, while blasting Ramadan anasheed. 2- Start a Ramadan calendar: Marking off the days of Ramadan is a lot of fun for kids. The simple calendar I made for my children (felt pieces glued 3- Get the kids to give the same time! Have a look onto a black board) has little sadaqah, offering to the needy: at my ideas for different pockets, where I put a note with Teaching your children about Ramadan crafts for your children either a sweet or a date for the sadaqah during Ramadan is one and get the whole family kids. The notes have changed of the best ways to implement involved. Crafts could include: over the years based on the ages this trait in them from an early and knowledge of my children. age, as they learn the importance • Ramadan placemats that When they were very small, the of charity and the need to share include iftar or suhoor dua and notes just said things like “Allah with those who have less than let the children decorate them. loves you so much!” and “In they do. Sadaqah extends beyond This is a good way to help Ramadan, adult Muslims don’t money. It includes: Baking them memorize the dua. eat or drink anything from before cookies and sweets for others, • Good deed jars that include dawn until sunset!” As they grew donating books about Ramadan a big collection of good deeds older, I put in more advanced to schools and having the to pick from every day. lessons or Quran verses. Even children contribute to a sadaqah • Date jars with decoration when we have guests, I ensure box throughout the month and on the outside to give as gifts, there are enough sweets or dates donate it before the eid either in which is a good way to instill in the pocket for every child who the form of money, food or in our children the tradition of visits. The children are not clothing. breaking fast with dates. Special Edition May 2019 44
Sohoor, important part of Ramadan, recommended for all
Some people skip sohoor, or the early meal before the fast begins during Ramadan. I like a good hearty sohoor. My neighbor, who is from Egypt, suggested something Fava beans for sohoor in keeping with the Egyptian tradition. I tried it last year and it worked great, and it now has become part of my daily sohoor, with some modification.
The original dish calls for cooked Fava beans, dressed with garlic, lemon juice and garnished with chopped parsley, tomatoes and olive oil. But for Ramadan, she recommended I skip the garlic to avoid dehydration and the urge for water.
Freshly backed bread and homemade waffles and fruit. Special Edition May 2019 45
Ramadan Goals Ramadan is the month of renewal and training; the month of strength and discipline, and no improvement can take place and be sustained without setting goals and following them. Here are some goals on different subjects for an easier start, and you can ad your own or modify.
1- RAMADAN: The first things that come to mind 6- HEALTH: For a better health, I have about Ramadan include: decided the following: • Variety of food, iftar, suhoor • Quit smoking • Hardship, thirst, hunger • Control my eating and sleeping habits • Spirituality, avoiding sins • Select fruits & vegetables over fatty • Gatherings with friends and family, Quran foods and prayers • Exercise to keep fit 2- GOALS: For this Ramadan, I have identified 7- KNOWLEDGE: To acquire more the following: knowledge, I have decided the following: • Be God fearing and increase piety • Read Islamic books • Build my character • Attend Islamic lectures • Work toward perfection • Start a study circle or Quran translation • Increase my spirituality & purify my soul program • Be positive and display the best of morals • Visit through Islamic websites 3- PRAYER: To improve my prayer, I have 8- VIRTUE: To enhance my morals, I have decided the following: decided to work on the following: • Improve concentration • Invite others for iftar • Understand its meaning • Being kind to relatives • Perform extra prayers at night • Help my neighbors • To be punctual for Friday prayer • Lighten the burden of others • Increase my prostrations • Give alms to the poor 4- QURAN: To improve my relationship with the • Respect my elders Quran, I have decided the following: 9- SIN: I have decided to avoid the following • Read the whole Quran at least once sins: • Memorize a few chapters • Speaking ill of others, backbiting • Learn to recite the Quran correctly • Losing my temper • Understand its meaning and ponder its • Spending too much time on social media verses • Forwarding forbidden materials via social media • Vain talk and telling lies 5- DUA: To be closer to Allah, I have decided to 10- NIGHT OF POWER: To take advantage recite the following: of the Night of Power, I have decided the • Daily dua for Ramadan following: • Dua after prayers • To increase worship during the last 10 • Supplications for iftar nights of Ramadan • Dua from Quran and narration • To seek forgiveness for past sins • Dua with tears • To ask for guidance for the future • To increase dua for everyone Special Edition May 2019 46
Ramadan Desserts Most people serve desserts after breaking the fast in Ramadan. Katayef and Kellage are two of the most popular desserts in the Middle East.
Katayef is similar to pancakes and are stuffed with either walnuts or cream. They can be either fried, baked or served raw with simple syrup.
Kellage is a similar dough to pancakes but fluffier. It is stuffed with a special cream and traditionally fried with butter and immersed in simple syrup.
Photos: Online research Special Edition May 2019 47