AlsahafaNewspaperNovember2008

NOVEMBER 2008
www.al-sahafa.us
CONGRATULATIONS TO PRESIDENT-ELECT
BARACK OBAMA!
....As he wins his place in history...
Barack Obama, the young Senator from Illinois, achieved a historic
win in the American presidential election on the night of Tuesday
November 4th, with victories for the Democrat over his Republican
rival in key battleground states, including Pennsylvania and Ohio.
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EDITOR’S THOUGHTS
A Very Interesting Question...
Obama/Biden vs McCain/Palin: What if...
What if things were switched around? Think
about it... Would the country’s collective point of
view be different? How much does racism influence
our opinions? Ponder some of the following:
What if the Obamas had paraded five children
across the stage, including a three-month-old infant
and an unwed, pregnant teenage daughter?
What if John McCain was a former president of
the Harvard Law Review, while Barack Obama
finished fifth from the bottom of his graduating
class?
What if McCain had only married once, and
Obama was a divorcee?
What if Obama was the candidate who left his
first wife after a severe disfiguring car accident,
when she no longer measured up to his standards?
What if Obama had met his second wife in a bar
and had a long affair while he was still married?
What if Michelle Obama was the wife who not
only became addicted to pain killers but also acquired
them illegally through her charitable organization?
What if Cindy McCain graduated from Harvard?
What if Obama had been a member of the Keating
Five? (The Five were the United States Senators
accused of corruption in 1989, igniting a major
political scandal as part of the largest Savings and
Loan crisis of the late 1980s and early 1990s.)
What if McCain was a charismatic, eloquent
speaker, while Obama couldn’t read from a teleprompter?
What if Obama was the one who had military
experience that included discipline problems and
a record of crashing seven planes?
What if Obama was the one who was known to
display publicly, on many occasions, a serious anger
management problem?
What if Michelle Obama’s family had made their
money from beer distribution?
What if the Obamas had adopted a white child?
You could easily add to this list. If these questions
reflected reality, do you really believe the election
numbers would be as close as they were? Would a
black McCain even be allowed to be a politician
much less a leader of our country?
This is what racism does. It covers up, rationalizes
and minimizes positive qualities in one candidate
and emphasizes negative qualities in another
when there is a color difference.
Educational Background:
Barack Obama: Columbia University - B.A.
Political Science with a Specialization in International
Relations. Harvard - Juris Doctor (J.D.)
Magna Cum Laude
Joseph Biden: University of Delaware - B.A.
in History and B.A. in Political Science. Syracuse
University College of Law - Juris Doctor (J.D.)
VS.
John McCain: United States Naval Academy -
Class rank: 894 of 899
Sarah Palin: Hawaii Pacific University - 1 semester
North Idaho College- 2 semesters, general
study University of Idaho - 2 semesters, journalism
Matanuska-Susitna College - 1 semester University
of Idaho - 3 semesters, B.A. in Journalism
Education isn’t everything, of course, but this is
about the two highest offices in the land as well as
our standing in the world. Should our presidents
have some proper political education, or just have
the right connections with the lobbyists and special
interest groups? You make the call..
Fatina Salaheddine & H.E. Dr. Hussain Hassouna -
Ambassador to the U.S.; League of Arab States
Lebanese-American
We are pleased to announce that the Al-Sahafa Newspaper Corporation is the official Ohio correspondent to: the
ART Channel, the Al Jazeera Network, The Lebanese Broadcasting Channel, and Lebanon’s Future Television. Please
stay tuned for future broadcast features and details about our thriving Middle Eastern Ohio community, to be seen
all over the world through these very important international satellite channels.
Al-Sahafa
Newspaper Office
Vol. 7 Issue #11
©2008-2009
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Mission Statement
The name Al-Sahafa means ‘the media’ or the ‘reporter’
in Arabic. The purpose of Al-Sahafa Newspaper is to provide
a bridge of communication for the direct benefit of
the Arab-American community in Northeast Ohio. Al-Sahafa
is open to all persons in any creed, race, religion, or
organization. This publication does not and will not tolerate
any form of Religious Contempt of Discrimination of
country origin in the Middle East. We are all God’s children.
This publication is understandably controversial at
times, but its contents sole purpose is to spark readers’
interest and attention about the “Arab” view point on all
past and current political, cultural and social issues effecting
our daily lives.
“I love you when you bow in your mosque, kneel in your temple,
pray in you church. For you and I are sons of one religion
and it is in the spirit.”
-Khalil Gibran (Arab American poet)
November 2008 • Page 3

Fashion For A Cause
“Fashion for a Cause”
-Rosanna Akhavan-Merhebi
RMF founder Nayla Moawad, widow of Lebanon’s President
René Moawad, and member of the Lebanese parliament,
told the audience that she appreciates the support everyone
in helping with their objectives to: Improve the economical,
social and rural development of Lebanon and the promotion
of a responsible civil society that encourages a national unity
and leads to a durable peace. She also mentioned that the
proceeds of this year’s gala would be dedicated to the foundation’s
‘Adopt a Student’ program which will provide Lebanon’s
youth with the opportunity for a better education in
semi-public schools by covering the cost of their tuition and
school supplies. The proceeds of the silent auction which
included dresses by Jamil Khansa, spa treatments, jewelry,
Furs, and many other great things would also go towards the
‘Adopt a Student’ program.
The Rene Moawad Foundation was created in November
22, 1991, exactly two years after the assassination of President
Rene Moawad. He was a believer in unity of the Lebanese
people. Since the creation of RMF by his widow Nayla
Moawad and other prominent Lebanese figures, the foundation
has implemented
over the years a multitude
of development
projects which support
the disadvantaged in
Lebanon. The activities
of the foundation
are a tribute to the late
Rene Moawad and his
efforts.
talent, gained him popularity
in Europe and Middle
East. He launched shows
all over attracting clients
worldwide. In 2005, Jamil
Khansa was the first Lebanese
designer to show during
Couture Fashion Week
in New York. During that
event, he was named "International
Fashion Designer
of the Year" in recognition
for his creativity and exquisitely
executed fashions as
well as the global reach of
his designs.
Jamil Khansa
has been a feature
designer
before at the
Ms. Nayla Moawad (former fi rst lady
of Lebanon and founder of Moawad
Foundation)
Ms. Nayla Moawad (former fi rst lady of Lebanon and founder of
Moawad Foundation) and Fatina Salaheddine.
Rene Moawad Foundation (RMF) held their fifteenth annual
benefit gala dinner October 25, 2008 at the Ritz-Carlton
Hotel in Arlington, VA to raise funds for the children of Lebanon.
The benefit gala dinner included a silent auction, entertainment
and award ceremony. The Master of ceremonies,
Congressman Ray LaHood talked about the foundation and
the work it does. The foundation plays an important role in
providing programs dedicated to helping the poor of Lebanon
and providing education to the youth of Lebanon.
The star studded event
included a Fashion show
by the very talented
Lebanese designer Jamil
Khansa. Jamil Khansa
obtained his Fashion
Design degree in Beirut
before he moved to Los
Angeles to begin his
career in the Fashion
industry. His passion
for fashion and amazing
H.E. Ambassor of Lebanon to the US and his wife.
November 2008 • Page 4
www.al-sahafa.us

Fashion For A Cause
Rene Moawad Foundations’
galas. This year he
donated dresses to the silent
auction and presented
some of his latest designs
on the runway at this year’s
RMF gala. These designs
were breath taking to say
the least. The designs
included evening dresses
and decorative suits that
dazzled the guests. As
a fashionista, this event
was one to attend not only
for the fabulous Fashion
on the runway and in the
crowd, but the help and
support this event brings
to the children of Lebanon.
So if you missed out on
this year’s event be sure
to check RMF’s website
for next year’s event and
see how you can help give
hope. Everyone’s support
can help make a difference
for so many.
Ms. Merhebi with famous
Lebanese fashion designer Jamil
Khansa
www.al-sahafa.us
November 2008 • Page 5

November 2008 • Page 6
Community
Barack Obama to be
America's 44th President!
Americans placed their faith in Barack Obama,
who made history by becoming the 44th man to
win the US presidency.
Scenes of jubilation broke out among Democratic
supporters as the US TV networks just after
11.00pm declared that the inspirational Democratic
candidate had won, after a momentous day that
saw voters turn out in huge numbers.
Victory in the end came as easily as the polls had
predicted. With key states falling his way, Obama's
achievement was comparable to the transformational
victories of Roosevelt in 1932 and Reagan
in 1980.
John McCain brought the momentous presidential
election campaign to an end when he phoned
Obama to concede the White House race.
Obama, accompanied to the podium in his home
town of Chicago by his wife Michelle and his two
daughters, alluded to the historic nature of his victory.
He said: "If there is anyone out there who still
doubts that America is a place where all things are
possible; who still wonders if the dream of our
founders is alive in our time; who still questions
the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer."
He added: "It's been a long time coming, but tonight,
because of what we did on this day, in this
election, at this defining moment, change has come
to America."
He praised McCain as a "brave and selfless leader"
and also began preparing America for tough
economic conditions he will inherit.
Picking up a refrain from his campaign, Obama
described America as a sum greater than its parts.
"We have never been a collection of individuals,
a collection of red states and blue states," Obama
said. "We are and will always the be the United
States of America.
"Because of what we did on this day, change has
come to America."
In an allusion to the enormous challenges that
face a new administration, Obama said: "The road
ahead will be long. Our climb will be steep. We
may not get there in one year or even one term, but
America, I have never been more hopeful than I am
tonight that we will get there."
For those abroad, Obama said "a new dawn of
American leadership is at hand" and for America's
enemies he said: "To those who will seek to tear the
world down, we will defeat you."
Obama spoke moments after John McCain made
a gracious concession speech in front of his supporters
in Phoenix, Arizona, said: "We have come
to the end of a long journey. The American people
have spoken and they have spoken clearly."
He said America had come a long way from the
racial injustices that were a stain on the country's
history.He called for the country to unite behind
Obama.
Paying tribute to his young Democratic rival, the
veteran Republican said Obama's victory "commands
my respect". He said he deeply admired and
commended Obama for winning a "historic election".
The scale of Obama's victory exceeded Democratic
expectations, as Obama was projected to win
338 electoral votes to McCain's 129.
Obama's successes in the White House race
were matched by Democratic wins in Congressional
seats. The backlash against Bush provided the
Democrats with one of their most satisfying wins
of the night, ousting the veteran Republican Elizabeth
Dole.
In an early blow to John McCain's hopes, US
television networks projected that Obama would
win Pennsylvania, where the Republican badly
needed to win to stand a chance of capturing the
White House.
In another big setback for McCain, the Fox News
network projected that Obama would win Ohio, the
state that ultimately decided the 2004 race between
George Bush and John Kerry.
No Republican has won the White House without
Ohio. With Ohio and Pennsylvania in his pocket,
Obama would be well on his way towards an overall
majority.
Piling on the humiliation for the Republicans,
Obama was projected to win Virginia by Fox
News, the first time the state has voted for a Democrat
in a presidential race since 1964, when Lyndon
Johnson took the state.
Obama was projected to hold on to all the states
the Democrats took in 2004, and win half a dozen
or more of the battleground states that had been
held by the Republicans.
The Democrat was also projected to win New
Hampshire, Connecticut, Delaware, Washington
DC, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts and
New Jersey.
McCain was projected to win Oklahoma, Tennessee,
Kentucky, Georgia and South Carolina.
Fears that many white voters would fail, in the
privacy of the polling booth, to vote for a black
candidate appeared to be unfounded, suggesting
that race is becoming less of an issue in the US.
Americans voted in record numbers throughout
the day as they finally got the chance to turn their
backs on George Bush's disastrous presidency and
choose a new president after America's longest and
costliest election campaign.
From the eastern shores of Virginia, across the
industrial heartland of Ohio, and on to the Rocky
mountain states of Colorado and New Mexico and
beyond, poll workers and voters reported long
lines and waits of several hours in the most eagerly
anticipated US election for half a century.
Turnout was at levels not seen since women were
first given the vote in 1920. Election officials predicted
turnout would come close to 90% in Virginia
and Colorado, and 80% in Ohio and Missouri.
Exit polls gave Obama double-digit leads in
states that had been bitterly contested, and on
which the outcome depended. The odds had been
stacked against McCain from the start, linked, as
he was, to President George Bush, with his nearrecord
low popularity ratings, hostility towards the
Iraq war and an impending recession.
But McCain managed to hold his own until mid-
September, when the Wall Street crash saw Obama
open up a commanding lead.
The next president will inherit horrendous economic
problems that will limit the scope of his
ambitions. Obama, in his final rallies, was already
tempering his early promise of change with warnings
about how he would have to curb some of his
more ambitious plans, trying to lower expectations
that he would be able to move quickly on health
care and education reform.
The stock market experienced its biggest election
day rally in 24 years on expectation of an Obama
victory as the Dow Jones industrial averages surged
300 points, or 3%, to close at 9,625.28 points.
Reporters travelling with Obama reported that
the candidate was in a subdued rather than celebratory
mood, perhaps reflecting the news of the death
of his grandmother on Monday. Obama told them
that whatever happened, the campaign, the costliest
in US history at over $1bn (£629m) as well as
the longest, had been "extraordinary".
Early expectations were of record turnout levels,
with the morning bringing long lines at polling stations.
However, exit polls later in the day saw voters
under 30, the target demographic of the Obama
camp, voting at about the same levels as in 2004.
That would be a disappointment for the Obama
camp which had been hoping that young voters
would buck the tradition of showing enthusiasm
From our Publisher
www.al-sahafa.us
for a candidate and then failing to turn out on the
day.
Exit polls did chart a rise in African-American
turn-out.
CNN, based on the exit polls, projected that
Obama would win Vermont, no great surprise as it
is traditionally Democrat
Independent election monitors reported sporadic
instances of delayed openings of polling stations,
broken voting machines, ballot shortages, voter
confusion and occasional abuse in a number of battleground
states including Florida, Ohio, Colorado,
Pennsylvania and Virginia.
WHAT A FEELING IT WAS TO BE IN OUR NATION'S CAPITAL OF WASHINGTON D.C. -
CELEBRATING THE VICTORY OF OUR NEW PRESIDENT-ELECT; BARACK OBAMA.
MAY GOD BLESS HIM, AND BLESS OUR AMERICA IN THE YEARS TO COME IN DEALING
WITH OUR TRILLION DOLLAR DEFICIT, OUR WARS IN IRAQ AND AFGHANISTAN, OUR
SOARING GAS PRICES, OUR BROKEN ECONOMY, AND OUR MEDICAL/HEALTHCARE
INSURANCE ISSUES - TO MENTION THE LEAST OF OUR PRESSING TOPICS.
AND TURNING OUR AMERICAN IMAGE AND STANDING IN THE WORLD BACK TO THE
PEACEFUL NATION OF TOLERANCE AND MEDIATION.
NO MORE WARS - BUT YET AN OUTSTRETCHED HAND OF NEGOTIATION AND SITTING
BACK DOWN AT THE TABLE AND BREAKING BREAD WITH THE WORLD'S LEADERS -
AND THAT INCLUDES OUR SO-CALLED ENEMIES. IT IS BETTER TO KEEP YOUR ENEMIES
CLOSER - AND KNOW WHAT IS GOING ON AND KEEP THE PEACE TALKS GOING - RATHER
THAN BE ARROGANT AND HAVE NO NATION'S FROM AROUND THE WORLD BE AT OUR
SIDE AT OUR TIME OF NEED.
LET US AID OUR PRESIDENT-ELECT IN HELPING TO TURN OUR NATION INTO A BI-
PARTISAN RESPONSIBILITY IN SUPPORTING HIM AND OUR FELLOW COUNTRYMEN
ABROAD.
WE AMERICANS HAVE OVERWHELMINGLY PROVED, BY THE ELECTION RESULTS,
THAT CHANGE IS TRULY COMING - AND WITH HIGH HOPE WE HAVE PLACED OUR TRUST
THAT TRUE DEMOCRACY PREVAILS AFTER 221 YEARS OF THIS COUNTRY'S EXHISTANCE
- THAT AN AFRICAN-AMERICAN - AN EDUCATED SON OF SCHOLARS, AND SON OF A
MIXED HERATEGE IS NOW THE LEADER OF THE FREE WORLD!
GOD BLESS OUR PRESIDENT-ELECT;
BARACK OBAMA!
~ Fatina Salaheddine
(Publisher; Al-Sahafa Newspaper)

Community
The Lebanese-Syrian Junior
Women’s League “Tea Party”
A wonderful Tea Party was recently held by the beautiful
ladies of the Lebanese-Syrian Junior League at one of
Cleveland’s historic treasures; The Emerald Necklace Inn
(built in 1863). Their “Tea Tasting” experience included
never-ending cups of flavored delicious tea, soup and salad,
plates stocked high with assortments of scones and banana
bread, tea sandwiches, quiche with fresh fruit and all served
with lemon curd, devonshire cream and jelly preserves.
Hats off to the “Tea Party” fun at the Emerald Necklace
Inn, for their warm hospitality and Ohio charm...
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November 2008 • Page 7

The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination
Committee (ADC) is now recruiting
law students as Legal Associates for
Summer 2009.
Calling all law students who might be
interested. The deadline for applications
is December 15, 2008. 1L students can
mail or email their completed applications
by January 12, 2009 in order to
accommodate for the receipt of official
transcripts.
November 2008 • Page 8
Arab American Issues
ATFL Success on Funding for Cluster Bomb
Clearance in Lebanon
The American Task Force for Lebanon
(ATFL) has been working since March
2008 to insure that there is additional funding
to continue cluster bomb clearance in
Lebanon. We are grateful for the responsiveness
of the US Department of State on
this issue.
The United Nations Mine Action Service
had indicated to ATFL that it would have to
close down its cluster bomb clearance program
in Lebanon if additional funding were
not found. The US Department of State has
been able to obtain an initial $825,000 from
the global de-mining budget and will play
a leadership role in a continued effort for
additional financial assistance. The State
Department has indicated that clearing the
Congressman Kucinich presenting an award to
Cluster Bomb victim from Afghanistan
cluster bombs in Lebanon is a humanitarian
effort that must continue unabated. In
addition to its own contribution, the U.S.
will promote additional funding from
other countries. We understand Lebanon
has already received $4.5 million from the
U.S. for de-mining and related programs in
2008 and is working to obtain additional
funding from other countries.
Tragically, on September 3, a Belgian
United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon
(UNIFIL) peacekeeper was killed in the
line of duty while clearing unexploded
ordnance Israel left behind when it fired
deadly cluster bombs into Lebanon during
CATEGORY: Civil Rights, Human
Rights, Constitutional, Immigration,
Employment, Legislative.
DESCRIPTION: The American-Arab
Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC),
which is non-sectarian and non-partisan,
is the largest Arab American grassroots
organization is the United States. It was
founded in 1980 and has chapters nationwide.
Through its Legal Department,
ADC offers counseling in cases of discrimination
and defamation and selected
impact litigation in the areas of immigration.
DUTIES: Interns are responsible for
their own cases under the direct supervision
of the ADC attorneys. Cases involve
employment discrimination, immigration,
airline discrimination, hate
the 2006 summer war. The United Nations
estimates that about 40 percent of the one
million cluster bomb sub-munitions Israel
fired into Lebanon during the war failed to
explode. The June 2008 report of the UN
Mine Action Coordination Center in south
Lebanon estimates that 40,678,714 square
meters remain contaminated with deadly
unexploded ordnance.
In the 27 June 2008 Seventh Report of
the UN Secretary-General on the Implementation
of Security General Resolution
1701, the Secretary-General states incidents
involving unexploded ordnance--including
cluster munitions--resulted in 27 civilian
George Cody speaking to Ban Cluster Bombs at
ACCESS-OHIO
crimes, educational discrimination, public
accommodation, housing, freedom
of speech. Interns also represent the organization
at various meetings and conferences
with civil rights, human rights,
as well as federal agencies and departments.
ADC Summer Legal Associates
are required to write a fifteen page law
review style paper related to the issues
that ADC handles. In addition, Summer
Legal Associates will also be required to
take part in the ADC Ibn Rushd Moot
Court Competition and write accompanying
briefs and memos in preparation
for the competition.
REQUIREMENTS: 1L, 2L, 3L or
LLM
PREFERRED COURSEWORK: Constitutional
law or seminar, employment
www.al-sahafa.us
fatalities and 231 civilian injuries. Mineclearance
incidents have resulted in 13
mine-clearance fatalities and 38 injuries,
thus far.
Dr. George Cody, ATFL Executive Director,
said “We welcome the Department of
State commitment to provide this additional
assistance and to undertake a leadership
role in ensuring adequate funding in the future.
We will carefully monitor the cluster
bomb clearance program to make sure there
is U.S. support and sufficient resources to
complete the task--and to complete it quickly.
The American Task Force for Lebanon
continues to urge that Israel turn over the
strike data to the United Nations where it
fired cluster bombs into Lebanon during the
summer 2006 war.”
ADC Now Accepting Summer 2009 Legal
Intern Applications
law, immigration law and clinic experience,
international law, other constitutional
law seminars, legislative law,
criminal law, torts.
APPLICATION MATERIALS: Please
mail or e-mail the following: resume,
cover letter, two references, writing
sample, transcript.
APPLICATION DEADLINES:
Spring Semester - December 8 Summer
- December 15
NOTE: Complete 1L applications can
be mailed or emailed by January 12,
2009 in order to accommodate receipt of
official transcripts.
CONTACT: Tony Kutayli (Intern Coordinator)
(202) 244-2990

Mai Hamed loves to paint and uses a paintbrush attached
to her wrist. To date, she has completed over 45
watercolor paintings.
Mai is a survivor of domestic violence. She lost both
hands, suffered from third degree burns, and her vision
in one eye
was damaged
in late 2003.
She spent
more than 18
months in the
hospital at
Metro Health
Medical Center
in Cleveland.
In early fall
of 2004, she
began painting
as a form of
therapy while
at the hospital.
Community
Featured Artist Spotlight: Mai Hamed
Painting soon became more then just therapy. As she
began to develop her talents, a deep love for painting
emerged. For Mai, painting makes her heart happy and
gives her a sense of accomplishment and hope.
Mai has sold her paintings at Metro Health and at Inside
Outside Gallery in Tremont. She will be exhibiting
at ‘The People’s Art Show’ at the ‘Local Girl Gallery’
16106 Detroit Ave. Lakewood.
Mai Hamed’s
Paintings will
also be featured
at the 18th People’s
Art Show,
which will
open on Friday,
October 24 at
the Cleveland
State University
Art Gallery
and run
through Thursday,
December
4. An opening
reception will
be held at the
Art Gallery on
October 24 from 5 - 8 p.m. The exhibit and reception
are free and open to the public.
To reach Mai Hamed:
(216) 254-8641
(216) 502-5347
Help your school stars to shine.
Help us to honor the students, teachers and faculty who shine bright in their classrooms
and in your community. Nominate your deserving stars today!
Sarah Mikati, Stanton Middle School, Kent, Ohio
OVER $15.5 BILLION FOR EDUCATION.
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November 2008 • Page 9

Middle East Focus
Celebrating Lebanon’s National Day
America and Lebanon: The elephant and the ant
By: Rima Merhi
I was lying on the floor watching the last
presidential debate at the JF Kennedy School
of Government in Harvard, certain that I was
the only person in the room who was more
aware of the red rails that marked the cubicles
of the forum, than the wide TV screens featuring
Obama and McCain at an unforgettable
moment in American history.
It was symbolic that I happened to catch a
glimpse of the TV screen through the red rails.
It was like looking at my future and the future
of so many youth in my country behind suffocating
red bars designed in Washington DC,
and sold to the highest bidder in Lebanon.
Even with the financial crisis in Wall Street,
no Lebanese can deny that the version of democracy
Americans practice at home is an inspiration
for the whole world.
There is so much we can learn from America
if we only open our eyes and minds. The Lebanese
can criticize the Americans all they like,
but fact of the matter is despite all their differences,
the “American dream” of building a
stable, secure, and prosperous America is one
that unites all Americans.
In America, no one asks about your religion
or casts judgments about your character or potential
to succeed in life based on whether you
are a Sunni, Shiite, Christian or Druze. People
coming from different sects, religions, ethnicity,
nationality… all co-exist peacefully together
and have the option of civil marriage.
Tolerance lies at the heart of American values,
and the American system is very much goal
driven and based on merit and achievement.
Presidential candidates in the US compete
based on carefully outlined policies that address
education, health, labor, foreign policy,
and immigration amongst other concerns.
These policies are placed within a broader
November 2008 • Page 10
framework that defines the vision each candidate
holds for the future of America.
Politicians do not score points by hurling
abuses at one another, or accusing each another
of being traitors to America. In America,
you will not find a politician using George Orwell
as a guide for communications 101 with
his fellow politicians or citizens.
Instead, presidential candidates score points
by debating the merits and drawbacks of past
and future policies, providing specific facts
and figures to validate their points, and telling
the regular American or “Joe the Plumber”
how their policies would add value to his life.
When Americans vote, they do not choose
the politician who represents their sect, geographical
region, or family background. They
assess the credentials of each candidate based
on their past achievements, policies and overall
vision.
For so many reasons, America and Lebanon
cannot be compared, but it is interesting to observe
firsthand the version of American politics
and culture that make this nation a true democracy.
Our media back home does not show
us the real face of America, simply because
Bush has done a marvelous job of exporting
terror not democracy to the Middle East.
Even though I am supporting Obama on the
grounds that this great nation needs a break
from Bush and his failed policies, particularly
in the Middle East, being Lebanese I am certain
that the nature of Lebanon’s relationship
to America is more important than the person
who comes to occupy the White House.
Lebanon and America are perhaps like an elephant
and an ant. The elephant can see clearly
ahead, and can trample on the ant at any time.
The ant has a choice. Either it will stick to the
elephant side and risk getting trampled on at
any time, or keep a safe distance so it can look
beyond the elephant trunk. To survive, this
ant must work day and night all months of the
year.
I was smiling to myself thinking I am even
smaller than this ant, when I heard McCain
accuse Obama of spending more money on
his presidential campaign than any other time
since the Watergate Scandal. At that moment,
I could not help but envy Americans for this
seemingly black mark in American history.
The Watergate Scandal is a dream for any
Lebanese: The saga of two journalists in the
Washington Post who could depend on an independent
judiciary to put behind bars members
of the CIA, FBI and senior officials in
the White House, leading to the resignation of
President Nixon in 1974.
This is a story that should make any Arab or
Lebanese stand in awe and respect for America,
as it means that they have in place a system
that protects the individual, and no man,
not even the President of the United States of
America is above the law.
The thought made me shiver and for a split
second I could no longer focus on the presidential
debate or observe the audience around
me. I wanted to break the red rails that were
holding me and so many youth in my country
captive, and dream of a moment in time when
justice would be served in Lebanon.
As I looked up at the ceiling of the forum, I
saw a horrendous abyss and heard the sound of
a deafening explosion that rocked Beirut February
14, 2005. I asked myself what is justice
for Lebanon if it isn’t an end to this frightening
era of impunity for murder.
Other questions followed: What is independence?
What is democracy? And can one ever
find answers to these questions in prestigious
schools in the USA?
The notion of Lebanese independence has
meant different things at various moments in
Lebanese history. In 1943, ‘independence’
marked the end of French rule. In 2005, ‘independence’
meant the end of Syrian military
presence in Lebanon. And in 2008, a few days
before Independence Day, I ask myself what is
independence for Lebanon?
Is it an end to the Syrian intelligence apparatus
that continues to control my country? Is
it freedom from foreign intervention in Lebanon?
Is it a moment when Lebanese politicians
attend to “Joe the plumber” instead of
turning to Syria and Iran on one side, or the
US and Israel on the other? Is it a time when
the Lebanese army will take control of every
inch of Lebanese soil? Is it peace with Israel
and a final settlement over land and prisoners
of war? Is it a time when expatriates have the
choice to go back home and work for the good
of their country, instead of using their skills,
education and experience to build other communities
all over the world?
So many questions unanswered, and even
though I do not know what democracy for
Lebanon is, I am certain it does not begin with
prostituting the constitution after failing nineteen
times to elect a president, and in the end
settling for another military commander for
fear that Lebanon would degenerate into another
fully fledged civil war.
For me personally, Lebanese independence
finds its best expression in a 14 March movement
that will change direction, and realize
that its legitimacy needs to come from the
North and South of Lebanon, before Washington
DC.
It’s a political discourse that shuns the wilayet
el Fakih ideology by making it clear to all
the Lebanese who are looking at Shiites with
growing fear, that this ideology is preached by
few extremists, and the way forward is a political
agenda that is based on trust and a genuine
Lebanon, cont’d on page 11
www.al-sahafa.us
I am From…
By; Diana Marie Naoum
I come from a land that blends
Eastern and Western tastes.
I am from the land of the tall Cedar Tree
Watching over the mountain’s graceful horizon.
I am from a land where God fails to turn his back
on.
I am from the land under the heavens of Jesus
and Mohammad.
I am from a land that holds in hand both the Bible
and Koran.
I come from a land where damaged souls bury
their anger beside the grave of their loved ones.
I come from a land controlled by outside forces
tugging the strings on their inside puppets.
I come from a land where the playground
becomes a dirty game while the bullies enjoy
knocking the little kid down.
I am from Beirut’s enchanted cafés to the hidden
valleys of the Bekaa.
I come from a land where Feiruz’s magical tune
leads the journey of peaceful winds.
I come from a land where fathers share an old
legend along the enigmatic ruins of Baalbak.
I come from the warm, colorful families that
welcome even their enemies to the door.
I am from the land that holds on tight to 10,452
kilometers of free soil.
I am from Lebanon.
*My name is Diana Marie Naoum. I’m 16 and
a junior at Solon High School in Ohio. I was assigned
to write a poem for an English course about traditions
and culture. My English teacher is Mrs. Kinney. I enjoy
writing poetry about Lebanon’s beauty and history.
From the view of a Lebanese American, I fi nd it
important to share my work with those that endured the
heart aching years post war. I try to get the feel from
both worlds and try my hardest to convey them with my
pencil at hand.

Middle East Focus
Lebanon, cont’d from page 10
intent to integrate all Hezbollah supporters and
particularly the moderate Shiites, who currently
have little choice beyond Iran and Hezbollah.
It’s a 14 March movement that doesn’t even
attempt to justify the killing of over two hundred
innocent Palestinian civilians in Nahr el Bared,
admits that the Lebanese army fell into a trap
plotted by the enemies of Lebanon, acknowledges
that there could have been another way to
fight the war on terror, whilst accepting real responsibility
and placing human dignity and life
before propaganda campaigns that sell illusory
victory masked with the intent of consolidating
power beyond Lebanese borders. Independence
Day is a time when the Lebanese backed by the
international community can wage a war on terror
by improving the dreary living conditions of
over 400,000 Palestinians scattered in eleven
camps in the country.
By the same token, Lebanese independence is
a moment when Hezbollah supporters can hold
their leadership accountable, and begin by having
the courage to profess openly their shame
and disappointment that Hezbollah reached a
point of using weapons against its fellow Lebanese.
To Hezbollah supporters, I want to ask: If God
forbids Israel wages a war on Lebanon again
and attacks your villages, where will you seek
refuge? In the Alawite regime in Syria backed
by a president who can make peace with both
Israel and the US tomorrow morning, if it would
end Syria’s isolation from the international community?
Or are you counting on Ahmedinajad’s
nuclear program to protect you? Be certain that
in the end, we only have each other, and in your
hour of need, we will lick our wounds and open
are homes to you again, or Lebanon is another
Iraq in the making.
You need to seize Independence Day to genuinely
apologize to the people of Mount Lebanon,
your fellow Sunnis in Beirut, and Lebanon at
large for an unforgettably dark moment in Lebanese
history.
The supporters of March 8 need to see that
crippling the heart of Beirut for a year was not
the only way to have their voices heard. To
them, I want to say you hurt me- an expatriate
who lived over twenty years outside Beirut, you
hurt the youth and the investors who closed their
businesses, and in so doing you hurt the whole
of Lebanon, not 14 March movement. You may
have gone home after a year of camping outside
Grand Serail, but it may be years before I
can go home to my family. This is the fate of so
many Lebanese youth who left the country feeling
cheated, hurt, broken inside and desperate to
start a new life outside Beirut.
Independence is a time when Lebanese media
will not preach messages of hate, not even
against the state of Israel. It’s a time when Hezbollah
supporters realize that this is not about Israel,
it’s about us. If we learnt anything this year,
it’s that philosophies of hate and death will only
backfire on us, and rob our children of a right to
live in peace.
More than anything, independence for me begins
with a responsible professional media that
fosters national identity, fights social ailments,
particularly sectarianism, and remains committed
at all times to human dignity and the truth-
“The Truth” that is so much more sacred than
the agendas of politicians who are funding most
media outlets with the intent of promoting their
political agendas, and somehow whether intentionally
or not, end up injecting confusion, fear,
and apathy through a multitude of entertainment
and music channels that divert the attention of
the populace from the real issues on the ground.
When I was in Beirut, I turned the songs channel
on all day so I can bury my disappointment
with the sound of music. The first time I realized
there is something seriously wrong with
Lebanese media- despite all the diversity and
freedom it enjoys- is when I met Ahmed in Beddawi
camp.
Ahmed was a nineteen year old caught up in
Nahr el Bared camp for three weeks. I will never
forget him, because after that day I hated myself
for communicating the political messages of the
government during the crisis. Ahmed was in a
state of shock when he told me that he had gone
without a drop of water for days, and lived for
weeks with dead corpses all around him. I still
hear his voice when I toss and turn at night telling
me how he had picked up the dead corpse
of his best friend from the rubble. Other friends
were beaten up at check points and Ahmed was
very anxious that one of them had been missing
for fifteen days.
When Lebanese media should have given a
voice to the voiceless, these stories rarely made
the Lebanese press, because everything was censored
on both sides to make sure the media was
not seen as “unpatriotic” towards the Lebanese
army.
Lebanon needs to wake up from a deep slumber.
What goes around always comes around.
Treat the Palestinians in the camps as you would
wish to be treated if you were in their dreadful
situation. Treat your fellow Lebanese the way
you want your children to treat their friends and
elders. You are filling our hearts with hatred,
suspicion, and fear, not education, hope, and
freedom.
I beg you to celebrate independence day by
cherishing freedom of the press in Lebanon, and
forcing yourself to look beyond the media outlet
that tells you what you want to hear, so you can
see a more comprehensive and objective picture
of the reality on the ground.
We need to look beyond our borders to be able
to shape the future of Lebanon. The political
discourse in Washington DC today is that Israel
made a strategic mistake attacking Hezbollah,
when it should have waged a war against the
whole of Lebanon and destroyed the Lebanese
army.
As the Jewish lobby organizes and influences
American public opinion that Israel is ultimately
being dragged into another war with Lebanon,
our government must develop an effective communications
strategy to influence American
public opinion to the contrary. The ball always
begins rolling in Washington DC, and only
when it hits us with a big bang do we take active
measures to rectify the situation. The Lebanese
government needs to become more proactive
and less reactive to circumstances by engaging
American public opinion in times of peace as
well as times of war.
Real independence for me begins with this
moment- a moment when I am free to speak my
conscience without reservations.
I made a promise to myself when I left Beirut
this summer to come to the USA. I will stop hating
America for its failed foreign policy in the
Middle East, and seize every moment to break
the red rails that hold me a prisoner by learning
from America a better way to develop my
community.
I will acknowledge that the Lebanese government
has gone through hell and back in the last
three years, and need more support than criticism
to survive these harsh circumstances.
I will forgive Hezbollah for invading our
homes in Mount Lebanon and other parts of Beirut.
I will forgive them with a lump in my throat
for making a shameful assault on freedom of the
press in Lebanon.
I will forgive myself for all the things I could/
should have done better.
I will swallow the pain and horror of watching
the Lebanese army completely destroy a camp
and kill over two hundred civilians in a meaningless
battle that fights the war on terror the
American way.
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I will pray for the brothers I lost in the Lebanese
army and their families.
I will accept that I am Lebanese and it is my
fate to live through this ordeal with my fellow
Lebanese.
But I will never accept a moment in time
when I have lost faith in my country because
that would mark a moment in my life when I
have lost faith in myself. I would never accept to
replace my Lebanese identity with any foreign
passport. I would never betray the values traditions
and family that define me and my Lebanese
roots.
I have said enough, and even though I am millions
of miles away from Beirut, I promise to
represent the real face of my country so I can
always say with pride: I am Lebanese, I am Lebanese,
I am Lebanese, and yes sometimes it is
bane of my life, but most days it is the source of
my pride, joy and purpose in life.
The way forward for Lebanon begins with you
and me. The trail to independence begins with
personal freedom, forgiveness, acceptance, tolerance,
education, hard work and faith.
*Rima Merhi- is a researcher at Harvard, human
rights activist, and writer/editor of a new
blog monitoring Western media coverage of the
Arab world: www.mediacritic08.blogspot.com
See Cover Story pages 4-5
OCTOBER 2008
www.al-sahafa.us
WHO WILL IT BE AMERICA?
McCain or Obama
YOU DECIDE
2008
Wedding Bells
Ring for Nancy
Ajram!
See page 12-13
www.al-sahafa.us
SYRIA: TWO PERSONAL ACCOUNTS
COVER STORY- SEE PAGES 4-5
Subscribe to the Al-Sahafa.
Call us today! (216) 688-0991
Bellydancing Styles
See Page 8
FEBRUARY 2007
November 2008 • Page 11

Entertainment
The Skinny on Real Health Benefits from
Belly Dancing!
Belly Dancing, also called Raks Sharki
or Middle Eastern dance, is a form of
dance that many are familiar with. But
few understand the effects it has on the
human body. The graceful hip drops,
rolls, and pivots of this dance form utilize
muscle groups in the abdomen, pelvis,
trunk, spine, and neck, working with
the body instead of against it. Unlike
ballet, and other traditional European
dance forms which can potentially alter
and deform the skeleton,belly dancing is
based on movements that come naturally
to the female form. There is a wealth of
health benefits awaiting those who practice
this form of dance!
Many people are surprised to learn
that belly dancing involves much more
than the belly! In fact, I would argue
that one uses their hips and glutes while
“belly dancing” more than the abdominal
muscles themselves. Hence, belly
dancing can benefit many parts of
the body simultaneously. Here are some
of the health benefits of Middle-Eastern
Dance:
• Exercising the carrying muscles without
impact: A belly-dancer uses her quadriceps,
hamstrings and glutes to hold her
steady as she performs hip movements or
travels smoothly across the floor. However,
even though she gets a great lowerbody
workout, the amount of impact to
her knees and ankles is minimal. Impact
is measured not only by how hard our
feet strike the ground, but by how much
stress is placed on our joints. Using this
measure, most of Middle-Eastern dance
is considered non-impact; some tribal
and folk dances are low-impact.
• Building the back muscles evenly:
Belly-dancers use their torsos a lotmuch
more than ballet, modern or tap
dancers. Only jazz dancers come close
to our use of rib movements and undulations.
These movements, coupled with
shoulder movements, exercise the back
muscles, and they exercise the muscles
evenly. Strong back muscles prevent
back injuries, and they promote good
posture as well.
November 2008 • Page 12
Exercising the arms: New belly-dance
students are always surprised by much
they have to use their arm muscles.
Belly-dancers have to hold their arms up
for long periods of time, and it actually
takes quite a lot of strength to perform
arm movements slowly and gracefully.
• Aiding digestion: It’s true! Exercising
the abdominal area, not just by rolling
the belly, but also by swaying the torso,
helps food move along the digestive system.
Any form of exercise will have this
effect to some degree, but belly-dance is
especially good for this purpose.
The good news is that ANYONE can
belly dance! Any size, age, or skill level!
Once you get over the initial shyness,
it is really a lot of fun and a total body
workout at the same time. Taking a belly
dancing class is a great way to relieve
stress, make new friends, increase a positive
body image and self-esteem, and
burn over 300 calories an hour!
IN Summary, here are some of the main
benefits of belly-dancing:
www.al-sahafa.us
•Helps improve overall muscle tone
•Strengthens pelvic muscles
•Prevents lower back problems
•Improves posture
•Improves hip flexibility
•Enhances flexibility and suppleness
•Relieve stress!
If you have any medical problems or
are pregnant, you should consult your
doctor before attempting to belly-dance!

Entertainment
Here’s Al-Sahafa’s selection of the top ten best Arabic “DANCE” albums, and why we like them. We hope
you enjoy our selection too. If you come to one of our Hafli’s you will be able to hear many of the tracks
from these albums!
#1). Sabla Tolo.
Hossam Ramzy. ARC Music (EUCD
1581)
13 shortish tracks of pure percussion. All
very different and each having a description
of the rhythms used in the sleeve
notes. Perfect for practicing your Tabla
Solo’s (drumbeat solo’s)!
#2). Welcome to Orientales Sensations
(Vol 2).
Various artists. EMI Music (493324 2)
The best of this series so far. A great mix
of modern pieces - most easy to the western
ear and many good to dance to.
#3). Bellydance from Egypt. “Gamil
Gamal”
Bashir Abdel ‘Aal. ARC Music (EUCD
1487)
A collection of classic pieces including
some short Baladi tracks and a substantial
drum solo. A good mix of moods and
instruments.
#4). The Best Arabic Album in the
World ... Ever!
Various artists. Virgin (0946 310854 - 2 0)
A good compilation of mainly pop music.
Some tracks are also featured on other
compilation CD’s so compare listings
to see what you’ve already got before
you buy this one.
#5). Best of Bellydance from Egypt,
Lebanon, Arabia & Turkey
Various artists. ARC Music (EUCD
1358)
This is usually really cheap - it’s a sample
CD from ARC. All the tracks come
from other ARC albums. A very mixed
bag of classical and more modern pieces
- a good first buy.
#6). Camelspotting
Various artists. EMI Music (7243
496184 2 8)
Another good compilation of modern
(mostly pop) tracks. Some duplication
of tracks with other compilations. Was
given quite a lot of publicity when released,
so may be more widely available
‘off the shelf’.
W63)
Real folk music from real Egyptian
folk. This is authentic stuff
and so not all that easy to listen
to, if you’re not familiar with the
tones of Middle Eastern music.
Well worth buying once you get
your ear tuned in, a mix of folk
songs with traditional instruments.
#10). Nour el Ain
Amr Diab. EMI Music Arabia
(0946 310677 - 2 3)
One of the best selling albums
in Arabic music, from one of
the current super-stars in Egypt.
This is a very easy to listen to
album of pop music with some
Arabic/Spanish fusion elements.
Great to dance to. Most people
like this one but don’t make it
your only buy.
So get dancing folks! Any of these albums
can be bought or ordered from the
Arabic Stores in Northeast Ohio’s “Little
Arabia” area.
#7). Baladi Plus
Hossam Ramzy. ARC Music (EUCD
1083)
Go to the Arabic/Bellydance section of
any music store and Hossam Ramzy is
a name you’ll find on many albums. He
has done a lot to popularise Egyptian
music of all sorts, though some find his
drumming overly mechanical. This album
is a good collection of more ‘folky’
pieces, a bit raw for the untuned western
ear, but full of energy.
#8). Modern Bellydance Music from
Lebanon Vol IV
Emad Sayyah. ARC Music (EUCD
1332)
A good album with a variety of tracks,
some a bit ‘cheesy’. Most of it is good
for dancing and the album ends with a
terrific, but short, drum solo.
#9). The Musicians of the Nile
Charcoal Gypsies. REALWorld (CDR
www.al-sahafa.us
November 2008 • Page 13

Fashion & Style
A CURRENT FASHION TREND
The Scarf!
I have a friend who loves scarves. She
uses it whenever she gets an opportunity.
She carries herself very well and I
have seen people giving her appreciative
looks. But how many women do you see
on our streets using scarves as a fashion
accessory? As I thought on this, I realized
that many might not be getting into
it as they may not be knowing how to use
it. We have listed in our Style & Fashion
Section this month, some of the most
common styles and have also provided
a step by step guide on how to tie them.
Go on and do try out these. We would
love to see more well dressed women out
there!
The fabric: Today, fashion scarves are
commonly made from silk, rayon or acetate,
which offer a light weight, fluid
movement, strength, and a shimmering
finish. Other common fabrics for scarves
are cotton and wool, which make for a
slightly heavier scarf, with structure and
often textured finishes.
Size and shape:
Scarves come in many sizes and shapes,
and many are designed for specific uses.
There are bandanas and kerchiefs which
are smaller in size (usually 14-16 inches
[35-40 cm] on a side), to large shawl-like
scarves (which can be up to 48 inches
[120 cm] on a side).
There are square scarves, rectangular (or
oblong) scarves, and triangular scarves.
Some scarves have hemmed edges,
fringed edges, and fused edges. They can
be batik dyed, tie-dyed, silk-screened,
have woven patterns, or solid colors.
THE TWO SHOULDER
WRAP:
This is an excellent method of scarf-tying
for use with sleeveless dresses and lowcut
scoop necked dresses and blouses. It
November 2008 • Page 14
can be used to provide
a modicum of
warmth when transitioning
from afternoon
to evening at
various functions.
Scarf Style Needed:
Square Scarf (120
cm square)
1. Fold your square
scarf lengthwise (or
as an option, diagonally).
2. Drape the folded
scarf around your
sholders on the outside
of the arms.
3. Tie the folded corners
of the scarf into a small knot in the
center fron of the body.
THE ASCOT WRAP:
This is a traditional scarf tying style, providing
a conservative, yet sophisticated
look. The style is excellent for summery
skirt / pant suits
where the addition
of a blouse
would be to warm
for the climate.
Scarf Style Needed:
Square Scarf
(120 cm square)
1. Fold your
square scarf diagonally.
2. Drape the
folded scarf
around the neck,
passing the folded
corners to the
back of the neck.
Cross the folded
corners and bring
to the front.
3. Draw the scarf to a sung fit around
the neck and tie the folded corners into a
small knot or bow(your choice).
4. Tuck the edges of the scarf into the
collar of the jacket or blouce you are
wearing as desired.
THE CROWN:
This style of scarfwrapping
is named
as it forms a fabric
crown over the head.
It is an elegant-looking
wrap and is a
good choice for
bad hair days.
Scarf Style Needed:
Rectangular
(oblong) Scarf
1. Drape the rectangular
scarf over
the head, so that one
end hangs much longer
than the other.
2. Cross the ends behind
the head. Twist
the longer end to
form a “rope”.
3. Position the rope
over the top of the head 1-2 from the
front edge of the scarf.
4. Tie the ends of the scarf together. They
www.al-sahafa.us
can be left loose, or guided behind the
head and tucked under the scarf.
THE LONG TIE:
You can create a soft-looking effect with
your scarf reminiscent of a man’s necktie.
It makes for a
beautiful accent
to a simple suit,
dress or blouse /
slacks combination.
The technique
is simple,
but highly effective.
Scarf Style Needed:
Rectangular
(Oblong) Scarf
(at least 80 cm
long)
1. Fold your
rectangular scarf
twice lengthwise
to form an “S”
fold.
2. Drape that
folded scarf
around the neck,
allowing the ends to hang down in front

Fashion & Style
with one side longer than the other..
3. Tie the longer end in a knot around the
shorter end.
4. Pull the shorter end to adjust the
lengths as defined.
THE NECK WRAP:
This is a smart, professional style of
scarf-tying that makes for a simple accent
to a business-suit, or elegant pant/
skirt ensemble. This
style looks best with a
blouse bearing a high
collar.
Scarf Style Needed:
Rectangular (Oblong)
Scarf (at least 80 cm
long)
1. Fold your rectangular
scarf twice lengthwise
to form an “S”
fold.
2. Drape the folded
scarf around the neck,
allowing the ends to
hang down in back. Cross the ends and
bring to the front.
3. Loop the ends around one another and
pass around to the back once more.
4. Knot the ends at the back of the neck
and tuck any remaining length under
collar.
SCARF AS TRADITIONAL
BELT:
There are times when you want to add
a little “twist” to the traditional look of
a belted slacks/blouse/jacket ensemble.
By replacing the usual belt with a scarf
in a complimentary color/
pattern, you can create a
flattering, and chic look.
Scarf Style Needed:
Rectangular (oblong)
Scarf (120 cm long)
1. Fold a rectangular
scarf double lengthwise,
twice.
2. Thread the folded
scarf through the loops
of the pants as a traditional
belt. pull the scarf
to even the ends.
3. Loop the ends of the
scarf and pass the ends
back through the loops to the back of the
pants.
4. Tie the ends in to a knot and tuck any
remaining ends under the scarf.
THE SARONG/ SKIRT
You can wear your
scarf as a sarongtype
skirt. Worn this
way, it makes an elegant
cover-up at
the poolside or the
beach. The lightweight
fabric of
most scarves makes
it cool and comfortable,
and the draping
effect is very
flattering to women
who are uncomfortable
showing their thighs and hips in a
bathing suit.
Scarf Style Needed: Square Scarf (at
least 120 cm square)
1. Fold a square scarf diagonally to form
a triangle. Turn down the folded edge to
form a “belt”.
2. wrap the folded scarf around the waist
and knot the folded corners.
3. Take the ends of the knotted corners
and pass them over the knot and down
along the leg to fill any gap.
4. Turn the scarf to position the knot anywhere
you please. generally, at the hip is
most flattering to the most figures.
THE SIDE-KNOTTED BELT:
Sometimes you
need something
to dress-up that
simple little dress
you’re wearing,
but you don’t want
(or don’t have) a
regular belt that
would be appropriate.
This is the
perfect time to put
a scarf to use.
Scarf Style Needed:
Rectangular
(oblong) Scarf (80
cm long)
1. Fold a rectangular scarf twice lengthwise
to form an “S” fold.
2. Wrap the folded scarf around the
waist and tie the ends in to a small knot
or bow.
3. Adjust the unknotted end of the scarf
to expand it creating a gentle angle.
THE - KELLY:
Named after the famous American actress-turned-Princess
of Monaco, Grace
Kelly, this method of
wearing a scarf was
used to protect the
hair-style and still look
glamorous while traveling.
Scarf Style Needed:
Square Scarf
1. Fold a square scarf
along the diagonal.
2. place the folded
scarf over the ahead
with folded edge to
thefront.
3. Cross the folded
corners under the chinaround the neck.
4. Tie the ded corners behind the neck,
making sure to catch the loose corners at
the back under the knot.
www.al-sahafa.us
November 2008 • Page 15

Culture Corner
Pass Me the Tabouli for Thanksgiving Please!
By Rosanna Akhavan-Merhebi
Throughout history mankind has celebrated
the bountiful harvest with THANKSGIV-
ING ceremonies. Before the establishment
of formal religions
many
ancient farmers
believed that
their crops contained
spirits,
Rosanna Akhavan- Merhebi
which caused
the crops to
grow and die.
Many believed
that these spirits
would be
released when
the crops were
harvested and
they had to be
destroyed or they would take revenge on
the farmers who harvested them. Some of
the harvest festivals celebrated the defeat
of these spirits. The ancient civilizations all
held harvest festivals and thanksgiving celebrations
such as the Greeks, the Romans,
the Hebrews, the Chinese, and the Egyptians
in the Middle East. The ancient Egyptians
celebrated their harvest festival in honor of
Min, their god of vegetation and fertility. The
festival was held in the springtime, which is
the Egyptian’s harvest season. The festival of
Min featured a parade in which the Pharaoh
took part. After the parade a great feast was
held. Music, dancing, and sports were also all
part of the Thanksgiving celebration. When
the Egyptian farmers harvested their corn,
they wept and pretended to be grief-stricken.
This was to deceive the spirit, which they believed
lived in the corn. They feared the spirit
would become angry when the farmers cut
November 2008 • Page 16
down the corn where it lived.
Okay – now let us forward thousands of
years, and let’s talk about Thanksgiving here
in the U.S.
Ever since I can remember my family has
been taking part of this tradition and celebrating
Thanksgiving. My parents said
they never knew what it was until one year
they were invited to a neighbor’s house for
Thanksgiving and were given a brief summary
of what Thanksgiving was all about.
They ate the traditional turkey and all the
trimmings and my mom soon learned how to
cook her own turkey. It was not long before
my mom adopted this holiday and our family
began celebrating it every year. In the
beginning it took her awhile to get the hang
of cooking the meal like the turkey, (which
caught on fire one year LOL!!!). But if you
are like our family, and I’m sure many of you
are, you share that basic understanding of togetherness
and family on Thanksgiving. I’m
sure you and your family have your own way
of celebrating it and have found a way to put
your own “cultural twist” on this great traditional
holiday.
Just think, every Thanksgiving Holiday–
millions of American families, in the
“United” States of America, whose origins,
religions and cultures originate from all over
the world, unite together around their dinner
tables and share one thing in common – to
feast!
It’s really interesting to see how some other
families celebrate. My family gets together
each year at a different family members’
home. All the kids are seated at one table
(of which I’m happy to say I finally graduated
and am sitting at
the grown up table)!
You have my brother
screaming at the TV
screen because his
football team is losing.
Everyone is sitting
around the dinner
table chatting, laughing
loudly, and eating. My
dad loves to talk politics
(domestic or international),
maybe not
always the best subject
at the dinner table. Especially
when you have
so many different loud
Persian and Arab personalities
gathered. But
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
opinionated) family. I also enjoy having the
Turkey with all the yummy side dishes.
In addition to the basics of having turkey,
stuffing, and mashed potatoes on Thanksgiving,
we like to have our Middle Eastern touch
added on. My big fat Middle Eastern Thanksgiving
folks! We love having the American
style meal, but we cannot go with out some
Persian 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 finely with some
olive oil, lemon juice, and burghol (granulated
wheat). It is yummy and healthy! We
also have some Persian cookies and Arabic
baklava. The cookies are made with rose
water, which gives it a unique taste (not too
sweet but just right). Baklava has pistachios
and syrup keeping the pieces together. A
very tasty “after meal delight” accompanied
with some Turkish coffee or Persian Darjeeling
tea. The Persian tea has a great color and
taste that you do not really need to even add
sugar! You just enjoy drinking every savory
sip with your sweets. The Turkish coffee has
www.al-sahafa.us
a strong bitter taste, I’m not a fan, but my
Lebanese husband loves it. The coffee is
served in very cute little cups with saucers.
Last but not least my husband and mom love
to have sheesha A.K.A. hookah. (Hookah’s
originated in India and is very popular in
Middle Eastern countries. It is a device operating
with water filtration and indirect heat
to smoke some flavored tobacco). Yes, they
Tabouli, cont’d on page 23

By Dr. Hasan Abdessamad M.D.
(University Hospitals -
Case Medical Center)
& Dr. Marjorie Greenfield
M.D. (Dept. of Obstetrics and
Gynecology at the MacDonald’s
Women’s Hospital - Case Medical
Center)
Have you ever
wondered why
some women are
so much hairier
than others? Body
hair is a normal
part of becoming
an adult, but your
genetics and your
Dr. Hasan Abdessamad M.D. hormone levels
play a huge role.
Before puberty, our bodies are covered
with tiny little fuzzy hairs. As we reach
puberty, hormone levels change, and
some of those fuzzy hairs become coarse
and dark. The transition to real hair occurs
because of the hormone testosterone.
Even though we think of testosterone as
a male hormone, testosterone is important
in women as well, and rises around
puberty. In families and ethnicities that
tend to be hairy, the hair follicles are extra
sensitive to testosterone, and more
hairs become coarse and dark. Women
with health conditions that lead to high
levels of testosterone, like polycystic
ovarian syndrome, can have excess hair
too. It isn’t bad for you to be hairy, but
some women don’t like the appearance
of facial or abdominal hair. Once a fine
fuzzy hair follicle has become a coarse
dark hair follicle it doesn’t go back. To
Medical Corner
Safe & Effective Removal Tips for Body Hair
get rid of the hair you need to either remove
it, or kill the follicle that makes
the hair. Prescription medications like
birth control pills and a water pill called
spironolactone may help prevent new
hairs from developing. Hair removal can
be used on hair follicles that have already
transitioned.
7 ways to get rid of those extra
hairs
In most cases, you don’t need a doctor
to get rid of the hair that you believe
is excessive. Options for treatment of
unwanted hair include temporarily removing
hair (plucking, waxing, shaving,
chemical depilatories, and pharmacologic
methods) and attempts at permanent
removal (electrolysis and laser/light
treatments). Decisions among these options
depend on your preferences, tolerance
of discomfort, and risks of complications.
In general:
Pluck it: Even though it is
temporary, it might still give
you a good six to eight weeks
of smoothness. It is uncomfortable,
so it is best used for small
numbers of hairs like those on
the face.
Wax it: It works like plucking,
but you can apply it to larger areas
like the face, armpit, bikini
area, back or legs. Waxing can
be done at home with a kit, or in
a salon by a professional. Risks
include burns from the wax, so be careful!
Destroy it: Chemical depilatories work
well, are painless and can be used on virtually
any body area. Irritation can sometimes
develop so always apply the product
on a small area first to test how your
body will react to it. The odor might be
unpleasant and hair will grow back faster
than with waxing or plucking.
Shave it: Shaving is painless and fast,
but might cause skin bumps and irritation.
Do not believe the long-standing
myth that shaving causes hair to thicken.
Hairs that were cut bluntly by a razor
just appear coarser when they start to
grow back in. Shaving can be used on
any body area but its effect is not long
lasting. Shaving sensitive skin can cause
inflammation and infection. For the bikini
area, always use a fresh razor and
lots of shaving cream. If an infection develops,
see a doctor.
Medicate it: Eflornithine cream can reduce
the amount of unwanted facial hair
in women, especially after menopause.
This non-prescription medication usually
takes six to eight weeks to work. The
hair regrows within two months after
stopping the cream. The cream has been
approved by the FDA for the face only,
and it was found to work in about half of
the women who used it. Using it on other
areas is safe in theory but will be very
expensive. Apply a thin layer of cream to
affected areas of face and adjacent chin
twice daily, at least 8 hours apart. Use the
cream in addition to other hair removal
techniques; remove the hair as usual then
apply the cream at least 5 minutes later.
Do not wash affected area for at least 8
www.al-sahafa.us
hours following
application.
Burn it: Electrolysis
can
permanently remove
hair, but it
is a slow process
that can be uncomfortable
and
can occasionally
cause scarring.
Electrolysis is typically used on selected
areas of the face (eg, eyebrows, chin, upper
lip), but it can also be used in the bikini
area and other small areas.
Beam it: Laser therapy requires maintenance
treatments for permanent results.
Hair regrowth, if it occurs, usually takes
longer than above methods and the hair
might be thinner. Laser does not work on
light color hairs. It works best on dark
hair, especially black. Laser might cause
pigment changes and scarring of the skin
in some people. Even though it can be
applied
to any
place on
the body,
the expense
of
the procedure
limits
its use
to small
areas (eg,
face, bikini
area).
This may
change
Dr. Marjorie Greenfi eld M.D.
with the
development
of a
new generation
of
do-it-yourself at-home laser kits.
If you develop a rapid change in your
hairiness, or have male-pattern balding
of your hair or other signs of excess male
hormones it is important to see a doctor
for an evaluation rather than just treating
the hair. But if you are the average person
bothered by a little excess hair, this
list should help decide on a hair removal
method that is right for you.
November 2008 • Page 17

November 2008 • Page 18
Middle East Perspectives
In Praise of a Brave
Woman
By; Ray Hanania
In the backdrop of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that dominates
everyone’s attention and the news, another fight for the
protection of children, families and Christian education is taking
place in the Middle East.
It is being waged by an Arab-Israeli woman named Nadia
Hilou who has bucked the systems in Israel and in the Palestinian
community to do what some thought impossible.
A long time advocate of children and family rights, Hilou is
a citizen of Israel and ran for the Israeli Knesset so she could
advocate for the rights of all people in Israel, Arab and Jewish.
Ms. Nadia Hilou
Instead of running on one of the Arab Israeli party lists only to see her message drown in
the “us against them” fight for Palestinian rights, Hilou ran on a mainstream list with the Israeli
Labour Party. This way she would make sure her message reached everyone and change
would follow.
The only Arab Christian Woman
in the Knesset – one of 17 women
and one of only two Christians –
Hilou will not stop fighting for
family services and the rights of
children even when everyone else
has.
Last week, for example, she
called a special meeting of the
Knesset committee she chairs,
the Committee on the Rights of
the Child, to examine the facts
behind the recent murder of two
young children. Only two members
of the Knesset showed up
but Hilou’s hearing gave the local
media facts that might not have been heard.
Experts testified that five or six children are murdered by relatives every year in Israel. But
others, like Dr. Hanita Zimrin, who heads Eli, the Israel Association for Child Protection, said
she thought this was the tip of the iceberg. Many cases that are listed as suicides or accidents
may have been murders, she said.
While many of the other members of the Knesset, especially in the Arab parties, are in the
news addressing the bigger political issues of peace, conflict
and Middle East geopolitical tensions, Nadia Hilou is persistent
in seeking to elevate other important issues that have
been overshadowed by the conflict.
She has been dealing with the over-shadowed and often ignored
issues like honour killings, the murder of children, social
services for families, and helping to improve education,
including for the fast disappearing Christian Arab citizens of
Israel. Yet this has caused her some grief.
New generation of Arabs
Some activists insist she should be fighting for Palestinian
rights the old fashioned Arab way, with the usual anti-Israel
diatribes that embrace loud emotional words and empty bombast
with blind rejection of all compromise. It is a style that
typifies how Arab leaders have dealt with almost all conflicts
over the years.
But Hilou represents a new generation of Arabs who are
working from within the system to do good things. She not Ms. Nadia Hilou
only helps Christians, she also fights hard to defend the rights of Muslims and also Jews.
That’s why she received overwhelming support in her election on the mainstream Israeli
Hilou, cont’d on page 19
Cartooning in the
Cause of Peace
by; Karin Kloosterman
TEL AVIV – It might not look like it on CNN,
but the majority of people who live in Israel and
the region – Jewish and Arab Israeli citizens
along with Palestinians – are rooting for peace.
There are dozens of projects bringing Arabs
and Jews together to show the positive face of
the Middle East: Israel has Interns for Peace,
Chefs for Peace, Belly Dancers for Peace, bloggers,
musicians and even dentists in the name of
peace.
One of the latest projects to land in Israel is
Cartooning for Peace, founded by famous French
political satirist, Jean Plantureux (Plantu). This
past June, cartoonists from around the world
gathered in Israel and the Palestinian Authority
at four simultaneous exhibitions in Ramallah,
Bethlehem, East Jerusalem and Holon.
The artists met to share how cartooning can be
used as a means for peaceful dialogue between
Israelis and Palestinians, as well as others in the
region including Turks, Algerians and Egyptians.
Participants also included Japanese, Americans,
and French citizens.
Selected cartoonists, such as Plantu, who
works for French paper Le Monde, were present at the event. Artists got a chance to present their
work and participate in master classes attended by an audience that included diplomats. The meet
was supported in part by the Peres Center for Peace in Israel.
A founding member of Cartooning for Peace, Israeli political cartoonist Michel Kichka, spoke
with ISRAEL21c about the importance of the event: “Cartooning for Peace, or any other professional
meeting gives you opportunities to talk,” he says. “We are trying to put together people who,
let’s say, have a common understanding of what should be done with cartoons, or more correctly,
what should not be done.”
Commenting on the recent attacks on cartoonists in Europe, Kichka, who is originally from Belgium,
says he personally believes that offending a person’s religious beliefs is the lowest form of
cartooning, but that the furore showed there is a long way to go in achieving public understanding
of a cartoonist’s right to free speech.
When cartoonists meet, says Kichka, “We learn nothing can be taken for granted. There is still a
fight that has to be done. Democracy is not something that should be taken for granted. The freedom
of speech should not be taken for granted. We have to fight for it... Even when you mean to be liberal
and positive, anything you say [as a cartoonist] can be turned against you.”
When the members of Cartooning for Peace gather, it allows people who normally don’t meet each
other to participate in panels and debates, says Kichka. This last meeting in Israel wasn’t the first
time he’s met with Arab and Palestinian cartoonists, however.
And although it is important for Israelis and the Arab world to meet, it is also important for regional
cartoonists to be in touch with Americans, Japanese and other representing nations among the
group. Says Kichka, “Through them we understand their culture, country and concerns and can feel
how much we have in common and how similar is our fight.”
Aliza Savir, deputy director general of the Peres Center, said her organisation helped the cartoonists
arrange entry permits to Israel and other details. She tells ISRAEL21c: “Humanisation of the
other side is crucial for any good relations between Jews and Arabs in the future.”
Kichka said this past opportunity in Israel “allowed us to understand what it means to be a cartoonist
in a different country, whether in a country with heavy censorship or a democracy in which dissenters
deal with sensitive issues. Each cartoonist brought his own experience with him and together
we’ve put together something unique.”
*Karin Kloosterman is a Canadian-Israeli freelance journalist. She lives in Tel Aviv. This article
is distributed by the Common Ground News Service (CGNews) and can be accessed at www.commongroundnews.org.
www.al-sahafa.us

By; Anthony Zeitouni
WASHINGTON – On its 60th anniversary,
Israel is still concerned about survival. Even
with nuclear weapons and the strongest military
in the Middle East, the Jewish state remains
anxious. Iranian leaders are similarly
concerned about the future of their administrations,
even as the
country approaches
the 30th anniversary
of
its Islamic
Revolution.
Israel fears
any potential
threat,
whether it
comes from
Hamas,
Hezbollah,
or political
Islamic groups. Israel also has begun to fear
its shifting demographics, where birth rates
are significantly higher among Palestinians
than Jews. But above all, Israel perceives a
threat from Iran.
In a similar vein, Iran is threatened by an
outside force that would roll back its revolution.
The religious conservatives in Iran
are resistant to perceived reformists, which
at various times have been supported by the
United States, and stands alone as one of the
only Shia majority countries in the region.
Yet the conservatives of Iran, heirs to Ayatollah
Khomeini’s Islamic Revolution, also
face the possibility of seeing their regime
replaced by the followers of former Iranian
president Mohammad Khatami.
Iran and Israel share a sense of isolation:
Israel is comprised of an ethnic and religious
Middle East Perspectives
Israel and Iran Have Much in Common
minority (Jewish) in a largely Arab and Muslim
Middle East. Likewise, Iran’s government
is an ethno-religious minority (Shi’a
Persians) surrounded by Sunni countries.
Few know that Iran is home to the largest
number of Jews in the Middle East outside of
Israel. There are 80 synagogues (11 of them
in Tehran), many with Hebrew schools. And
over 25,000 Jews, most of whom are determined
to remain, because they are as proud
of their Iranian culture as they are of their
Jewish roots.
Iran and Israel should stop writing the narrative
of the other as “enemy”. Ahmadinejad
is perceived by Israel as a threat, while Israel’s
extremists believe that the world’s evil
emanates from Iran.
These views are too black and white, and
too polarizing.
Both are spreading fear to their people
when indeed they should be promoting solidarity,
first by turning down the aggressive
rhetoric. The countries should work to build
better communication between their societies,
so that the two peoples might find a common
ground of understanding.
The Iranian people are less concerned
with the rhetoric of Ahmadinejad than they
are with the country’s pressing domestic issues.
In his latest statement, Hasan Rouhani,
Khatami’s security advisor, strongly criticized
Ahmadinejad’s policies, and attacked
him for “destroying the dignity of Persian
people as well as making them poor.” These
criticisms are likely to become more frequent
as the presidential election in Iran approaches
in June 2009.
The economy is now the Iranian people’s
top priority, not Palestine. The younger generations
of Iran and Israel, who are looking
toward a better future, do not support the
drum beats of war.
They would only lead to a war that would
destroy countries and stifle development
throughout the Middle East. No country can
win, but all countries stand to lose.
What can save Israel and Iran from destroying
each other? Only the seeds of peace lying
dormant in both countries. These seeds lie in
the Iranian and Israeli people. They need to
be cultivated with civil society exchanges –
between students and intellectuals, scientists,
doctors, engineers, university professors, and
even clerics – where both sides share their
experiences in fighting common challenges.
Leaders in both countries need to care for
these seeds so they can spread and grow. This
is the role for those who want to save their
people and heritage while building a future
for the next generation.
* Anthony Zeitouni (Washington-based
conflict resolution researcher). This article
was written for the Common Ground News
Service (CGNews).
Iranian Woman
Israeli Women
Hilou, cont’d from page 18
Labour Party list when she ran.
But that’s the courage of Nadia Hilou. She
won’t allow political correctness or partisan
politics to discourage her from standing up
and being the champion of needy children,
families, women or others in Israeli and Palestinian
society.
Behind the scenes, Hilou has been working
hard to help get Christian schooling accredited
in Israel. She was instrumental in getting
Israel to approve the Christian education program
at the Mar Elias School in Ibillin in the
Galilee. The school is operating as a branch
campus of the University of Indianapolis in
Indiana in the United States, and re-opens for
classes again this fall, thanks to Nadia Hilou.
This opened the doors to Muslims seeking
educational programs, too.
It is because of her help working through
the Ministry of Education and the Council
on Higher Education that Mar Elias achieved
full accreditation as a stand-alone University
next year. It is now an official branch of the
University of Indianapolis, one of the few
schools offering Christian education not just
in Israel but in the entire Middle East.
This is the first Arab Israeli Christian University
in Israel. And that’s important; very
important.
But there is some vocal opposition in Israel
and among Palestinians. What angers them,
I am sure, is that Nadia Hilou is so different
and better than our failed political leaders
who would rather do everything the old
failed way than the new, right way.
She won’t be silenced when children are
murdered. She won’t be silenced when a
Christian minority needs educational support.
She won’t be silenced when a family
is in need –– Christian, Muslim or Jewish.
And, she won’t be silenced by extremists
who criticise her because she is a Palestinian
working from inside the Israeli system with
a mainstream Israeli party doing more than
pandering to political emotions.
Nadia Hilou threatens the status quo in the
Arab community and especially its leadership
www.al-sahafa.us
That’s exactly why she needs our support and
why I am happy to support her by organising
a fundraiser on her behalf and on behalf of
the Mar Elias school in Israel in Oak Park Illinois
on Oct. 8.
Doing what is right is always more important
and more correct than the usual political
correctness, whether it is related to Palestine
or Israel.
* Ray Hanania, a Palestinian-American,
is an award winning columnist, radio talkshow
host and stand-up comedian based in
Chicago. This article is distributed by the
Common Ground News Service (CGNews)
with permission from Ynet News
November 2008 • Page 19

Mediterranean Ingredients
The Goodness of Olive Oil!
Living in the Middle-East, may have
helped us in knowing the importance of
olive oil. We thought this was just the
right time to highlight the importance
and benefits of this oil. We urge you to
go through these and switch to olive oil.
It would be a wise decision that will benefit
the entire family.
Olive oil is a natural juice which preserves
the taste, aroma, vitamins and
properties of the olive fruit. Olive oil is
the only vegetable oil that can be consumed
as it is - freshly pressed from the
fruit.
Olive oil is an oil that is very good for
the health. This is because of its high
content of monounsaturated fatty acids
and its high content of antioxidative substances.
Studies have shown that olive
oil offers protection against heart disease
by controlling LDL (“bad”) cholesterol
levels while raising HDL (the “good”
cholesterol) levels.No other naturally
produced oil has as large an amount of
monounsaturated as olive oil -mainly
oleic acid.
Olive oil is very well tolerated by the
stomach. In fact, olive oil’s protective
function has a beneficial effect on ulcers
and gastritis. Olive oil activates the secretion
of bile and pancreatic hormones
much more naturally than prescribed
drugs. Consequently,
it lowers
the incidence of
gallstone formation.
Studies have
shown that people
who consumed
about 2 tablespoons
- of virgin
olive oil daily for
1 week showed
less oxidation of
LDL cholesterol
and higher levels
of antioxidant
compounds, particularly
phenols, in the blood.
But while all types of olive oil are
sources of monounsaturated fat, EXTRA
VIRGIN olive oil, from
the first pressing of the
olives, contains higher
levels of antioxidants,
particularly vitamin E
and phenols, because it
is less processed.
Olive oil and colon
cancer
Spanish researchers
suggest that including
olive oil in your diet
may also offer benefits
in terms of colon cancer
prevention.
Types of olive oil:
Generally, olive oil is
extracted by pressing or
crushing olives. Olive
oil comes in different
varieties, depending on
the amount of processing
involved. Varieties
include:
• Extra virgin - considered
the best, least
processed, comprising
the oil from the first
pressing of the olives.
• Virgin - from the sec-
ond pressing.
• Pure - undergoes some
processing, such as filtering
and refining.
• Extra light - undergoes
considerable processing
and only retains
a very mild olive flavour.
When buying olive oil
you will want to obtain
a high quality EXTRA
VIRGIN oil. The oil that
comes from the first “pressing” of the
olive, is extracted without using heat (a
cold press) or chemicals, and has no “off”
flavors is awarded “extra virgin” status.
The less the olive oil is handled, the closer
to its natural state, the better the oil. If
the olive oil meets all the criteria, it can
be designated as “extra virgin”.
How to care for your olive oil:
Resist the temptation to place your
beautiful bottle of olive oil on the windowsill.
Light and heat are the #1 enemy
of oil. Keep olive oil in a cool and dark
place, tightly sealed. Oxygen promotes
rancidity. Olive oil is like other oils and
can easily go rancid when exposed to air,
light or high temperatures.
November 2008 • Page 20
www.al-sahafa.us

Dear Cuz’n Kadim
Each month, Al-Sahafa Newspaper will be presenting a sort of “Dear Abby” column, but with
an Arab American twist. Our very own, Cuz’n Kadim (whom we will leave up to the readers’
imagination as to the gender of Cuz’n Kadim) will be answering and discussing many sensitive
topics that are rarely talked about, and deemed unworthy to discuss within the Middle Eastern
heritage. Each month, Cuz’n Kadim will be answering back readers’ cultural questions on
“taboo topics” that are so often “shushed” within Arabic households.
Readers, we encourage you to join our monthly “Dear Cuz’n Kadim” discussions by sending
in your questions and issues that you or a friend may be going through. Whether it’s an
interracial dating or arranged marriage issue, or a topic centering on sexual orientation,
religious or cultural differences, gender inequality in treatment- our very own Cuz’n Kadim
will be here to give you an ear and hopefully enlighten the issue with a fresh perspective.
Dear Cuz’n Kadim,
Dear Restless in Ohio,
I am a 54-year-old divorced woman who raised three
kids on my own for 15 years. I would now like to make
a major change in my life and move to a small town
in a Southern state. My kids are grown except for my
youngest, who will graduate from high school this summer
and probably attend college.
My Lebanese parents, who don’t even live in this town, are opposed to the idea. They say
I am “abandoning my children,” and my siblings are asking how I can move so far away
from my elderly parents, which makes me feel so guilty. Why is our Middle Eastern culture
so full of making us feel “guilty” all the time? Is that part of our culture or what?
Am I wrong for wanting a new life of my own? My loved ones can always come to visit
me. Do I owe it to my parents to stay here? Where in our Middle Eastern culture is it written
that we cannot move on with our own plans in life? Does it always have to involve
every member of the family to “okay” every decision made?
I can no longer afford to live where I am here in the Gates Mills community, here in Ohio.
If I move to a less expensive community, I suppose I could afford a smaller home.
– Restless in Ohio
The issue of guilt in the Middle Eastern culture…a
topic that can be extensively talked and
written about. First of all, I am so glad that
you brought it up, because not only is it evident
amongst Arabs and/or Middle Easterners, but
it ends up hurting rather than helping. There
is nothing wrong with being family-oriented,
because the Arab world (for the most part), is
a collectivistic culture. However, Arabs prefer
to save face, be polite, and sacrifice for the sake
of others. Therefore, I ask you and everyone
like yourself, “When will it be your turn to be
happy?”
You have raised three wonderful children and
took care of them for over a decade, all by yourself.
But I would like to ask you, “Who was
there helping you? Who was there consoling
you? Who was there making sure that everything
will be okay?” Just from your letter, I’m
guessing that the answer would be, “hardly anyone.”
So why is it that when a person
is going through a challenge,
people hardly come
into your life to console, help,
or even mediate. Some do,
but a lot don’t. But when
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it comes time for your happiness,
your chance to set
yourself free, or your ability
to have “me” time,
it seems as if the entire
world wants to stop you.
I have never understood
that concept and will
probably never understand
it anyways.
You have reached
a point in your life
where you paid your
dues. And what can
be more arduous
than raising kids on
your own. You have
done your job, and I
bet you have done
it well. You are
NOT being wrong
for living your life
and getting what you want from it. Do it now,
while you can.
Sit down and talk to your KIDS about this, because
I’m curious to know what they think. Are
they happy for you? Do they have mixed feelings?
Are they encouraging you to find your path
in life too? Whatever the case may be, I’m sure
they will realize how hard you fought for them
and how committed you were. You could have
done other than stay with your children and raise
them. You could have had them stay with their
grandparents, legally force your ex-husband to
share the responsibility, or even have them raise
themselves. You could have done any of those
things, but you didn’t. And I commend you for
that. Your kids will be able to make it on their
own, and there are always different ways to be
near family. And when it comes to happiness,
you have sacrificed enough not to think about
your own now.
By all means, do NOT disconnect from your
family, but rather reconnect with your happiness.
Because once you do, you will get a more
positive taste from life and will want to share
it with others. If you are not happy, you will
NEVER be able to spread happiness to others.
And for those who consider my column as an
obstruction of culture, I tell them, “Experience
happiness and then come and talk to me.” You
can be happy, but also be culturally, socially and
religiously balanced. So if you’re ready for this
step in your life, I wish you nothing but sheer
happiness. You deserve it and many like you
do too.
Best Wishes,
Cuz’n Kadim
Readers, if you or someone you know are in
a situation that is too sensitive to speak about
with friends and family – and are looking for
a bit of “cousinly advice,” please feel free to
email me; In Attention to: KADIM at office@
al-sahafa.us. And for your confidentiality,
address yourself whichever way you choose.
You don’t have to give us your name. I’ll
be the person who is willing to listen, when
others are not. And remember, you’re never
alone.
November 2008 • Page 21

November 2008 • Page 22
Financial Times
Analysis: Who in the Arab World
Benefits From Crisis?
By; Dr. Jonathan Spyer
(Jerusalem Post)
Stock markets across the Arab world experienced
unprecedently sharp losses when
trading began following the Id al-Fitr holiday
in October. The seven stock markets in the oil
rich Gulf states shed around $150 billion of
their capitalization in the course of the week.
The market in Saudi Arabia sank by 7 percent.
In Egypt, the key index fell by around
16%. One Saudi economist quoted by Agence
France Presse described the latest developments
as a “catastrophe.” For a number of
reasons, the Arab world may well prove particularly
vulnerable to the world economic
downturn. This fact has political implications
for the region, which are already being
glimpsed and acted upon by various regional
forces.
The first and most obvious reason why the
Arab world is particularly vulnerable to the
financial crisis is that a disproportionately
large amount of Arab wealth is invested in
global stock markets. Since the 1970s, the
Arab world (or parts of it) has enjoyed a long
windfall of oil wealth.
Oil wealth is the main source for Arab sovereign
wealth funds. Arab sovereign wealth
funds, with a combined value of more than
$1 trillion, are important investors in what
are now being exposed as some of the most
vulnerable sectors of global finance.
The Kuwait Investment Authority, for example,
placed a $2b. investment in Merrill
Lynch last year. At the time, this must have
seemed like a secure move. Merrill Lynch, of
course, no longer exists.
But the extensive Arab involvement in
global stock markets is itself a symptom of
a larger malaise. The oil-rich Gulf countries
have preferred to use their wealth to build
luxurious lives for the lucky few.
Instead of investing in education, especially
in cutting-edge fields such as information
technology, and in industry, money has been
gambled on the stock markets, or invested in
glittering real-estate projects, built by foreign
labor and using foreign know-how.
The result has been islands of luxury and
conspicuous consumption, based on no solid
national capital of knowledge and skills. This
vulnerability is now being exacerbated by the
recent decline in the price of oil - which has
fallen nearly 40% in recent months.
This reality has implications not only for
the thinly populated, oil-rich Gulf states. The
population centers of the Arabic-speaking
world, above all Egypt, are also unlikely to
remain immune. Development in the Gulf
has provided otherwise sparse job opportunities
for some of the vast population of underemployed
university graduates produced by
Egypt.
Large numbers of unskilled and semiskilled
laborers have also found work in the
Gulf. But if Gulf economies now draw in,
this picture is likely to change. Furthermore,
the open tap of foreign aid on which the
Egyptian economy has been so reliant may
begin to run dry - as the US and other Western
economies enter hard times.
Since we are discussing the Middle East,
it is appropriate to ask “who benefits” from
the current worrying situation. Political commentator
Rami Khouri, writing in the Beirut
Daily Star, notes that “this is not a situation
we can blame on anyone but ourselves.”
Khouri hopes that the crisis will produce a
sobering effect in the politics of the region.
One should not over-labor historical comparisons,
of course, but there are some that
are instructive. The Wall Street Crash of 1929
is an imperfect but useful historical example
for understanding what is happening now. In
1928, in a central European country, a small,
very radical party was humiliated in parliamentary
elections, winning only 2.6% of the
vote. The same party, in the transformed circumstances
following the crash, won 18.3%
of the vote in 1930.
The country was Germany, the name of
the party was the National Socialist German
Workers Party, and the rest of the story is
known. Who benefits, indeed.
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FINANCIAL HUMOR:
Our Tax System Explained:
Bar Stool Economics
Suppose that every day, ten men go out for beer and the bill for all ten comes to $100. If
they paid their bill the way we pay our taxes, it would go something like this:
The first four men (the poorest) would pay nothing.
The fifth would pay $1.
The sixth would pay $3.
The seventh would pay $7.
The eighth would pay $12.
The ninth would pay $18.
The tenth man (the richest) would pay $59.
So, that’s what they decided to do.
The ten men drank in the bar every day and seemed quite happy with the arrangement,
until one day, the owner threw them a curve. ‘Since you are all such good customers,’ he
said, ‘I’m going to reduce the cost of your daily beer by $20.’ Drinks for the ten now cost
just $80.
The group still wanted to pay their bill the way we pay our taxes so the first four men
were unaffected. They would still drink for free.
But what about the other six men - the paying customers? How could they divide the $20
windfall so that everyone would get his ‘fair share?’
They realized that $20 divided by six is $3.33. But if they subtracted that from everybody’s
share, then the fifth man and the sixth man would each end up being paid to drink
his beer.
So, the bar owner suggested that it would be fair to reduce each man’s bill by roughly the
same amount, and he proceeded to work out the amounts each should pay.
And so:
The fifth man, like the first four, now paid nothing (100% savings).
The sixth now paid $2 instead of $3 (33%savings).
The seventh now pay $5 instead of $7 (28%savings).
The eighth now paid $9 instead of $12 (25% savings).
The ninth now paid $14 instead of $18 (22% savings).
The tenth now paid $49 instead of $59 (16% savings).
Each of the six was better off than before. And the first four continued to drink for free.
But once outside the restaurant, the men began to compare their savings.
‘I only got a dollar out of the $20,’declared the sixth man. He pointed to the tenth man,’
but he got $10!’
‘Yeah, that’s right,’ exclaimed the fifth man. ‘I only saved a dollar, too.
It’s unfair that he got ten times more than I got’ ‘That’s true!!’ shouted the seventh man.
‘Why should he get $10 back when I got only two? The wealthy get all the breaks!’
‘Wait a minute,’ yelled the first four men in unison. ‘We didn’t get anything at all. The
system exploits the poor!’
The nine men surrounded the tenth and beat him up.
The next night the tenth man didn’t show up for drinks so the nine sat down and had
beers without him. But when it came time to pay the bill, they discovered something important.
They didn’t have enough money between all of them for even half of the bill!
And that, ladies and gentlemen, journalists and college professors, is how our tax system
works. The people who pay the highest taxes get the most benefit from a tax reduction.
Tax them too much, attack them for being wealthy, and they just may not show up
anymore. In fact, they might start drinking overseas where the atmosphere is somewhat
friendlier! For those who understand, no explanation is needed. And... For those who do
not understand, no explanation is possible!

We Arabs Are Worthless!
By Farid Asad Ahmad
There comes a time in ones’ life to reexamine
his self and reevaluate his worth to society but
mainly to himself. Dig deep inside yourself and
honestly say,” what I’m worth to my family, self
and to society? If I die today, what legacy will I
leave behind? Would I be remembered for contributing
well to society, or just a worthless nobody?
Frankly speaking, some of us Arabs will be known
for leaving nothing but inconsideration, lazy no
production, back biting, leave it to the other guy
and being cheap!
As you can tell from the tone of my writing, I am
a very hurt person. Yes I am hurt. The one thing
that really hurt me is the incident with Senator Mc-
Cain when he was answering questions and made
an Arab Slur. ADC has confirmed several media
accounts indicating that while campaigning Mc-
Cain passed the microphone to a woman who said,
“I can’t trust Obama. I have read about him and
he’s not, he’s not uh… he’s an Arab. He’s not…,”
before McCain retook the microphone and replied,
“No, ma’am. He’s a decent family man [and] citizen
that I just happen to have disagreements with
on fundamental issues and that’s what this campaign’s
all about. He’s not [an Arab].”
If this was the Jews, you would have witnessed
the biggest uproar ever. You would have Seen Senator
McCain apologizing. Where is our apology?
Why is there no one in society from the people in
the audience, Senator McCain, the news station,
even the President apologizing? Because when it
comes to American politics, Arabs are worthless
and have no clout.
Who do we blame for our lack of standing and
bad showing in the polls? No one but ourselves.
After 9/11, life for Arab Americans in America is
very hard. No matter what we do, it’s not good
enough. From the barber, to teachers, to cashiers,
to police and now to politicians, everyone has
nothing but bad to say about us. So what do most
of us do? We hide in our closets and either hope
that the problem goes away or wish that the other
guy takes care of it.
Some of you might say,”who is Farid to say
this?” I am an Arab American who cares about
you. I want respect that other members of society
have gained. I want positive images when referring
to Arabs and Muslims. I want our children to
have a chance in this world. I want respect.
Now that I have your attention, what should be
our course of action?
When you hear someone making a negative
remark against Arabs and Muslims take the time
and write a letter expressing your outrage at that
remark. Have your children help you so they can
see your actions and when they become adults they
will follow your footsteps. Take the time and write
the letter.
Please register with the Board of Elections so you
have the right to vote. Whether you vote in a small
election or a Presidential Election, do it. When the
politicians see that many Arabs and Muslims vote,
they will think twice before making bad comments
about us and this way they are encourage to speak
to our people. The number one voter that Politicians
cater too because of their power and political
Editorial
contributions is the Jewish vote. Learn from the
Jews and contribute and vote.
If a teacher makes a bad comment about Arabs
and Muslims, make sure your children tell you.
Go to the schools and express your outrage at that
remark. Remember, silence means that you agree
with it. I encourage all children when writing reports
to write about famous Arabs and Muslims.
Write about the Prophet Mohamed, Peace Be upon
Him. Write about his teachings, actions, and positive
actions to society. Have any of you read the
Prophet’s Last Sermon? I encourage doing so.
On the Muslim Eid, have any of you shared
sweets with your neighbors, school or even the
Mayor. For the past 6 years, I have bought trays of
Baklava and have given it to the schools in Westlake.
I usually attach a note explaining our holiday.
Let me tell you, the trays have gone a long
way. I have received mainly notes of appreciation
from teachers.
If you are either a leader or a follower, please
join any organization that helps your people. Participate
in Mosque events. Assist in CAIR of Ohio
events. Do not be stagnant. Be a major force to
be reckoned with. Contribute positively to any organization.
If Dennis Kucinich needs help, assist
him. He really respects our community and you
should vote for him always.
Many voters in swing States have received a CD
entitled,”Obsession-Radical Islam’s war against
the West.” This nothing but trash CD was made
by the Clarion fund. These people have an agenda
which is to scar the American Voter in to voting
for McCain through scare tactics. They are pursuing
a negative path for Islam in order to convince
the American voter that Muslims are bad and we
need John McCain in the White House. The cost
to make this CD was $500,000. If every Arab and
Muslim contributed 50 cents not one dollar, we
can make a counter CD depicting Islam as a good
and peaceful religion and that we do not mean any
harm to the American society. Where are those
millionaires and oil sheikhs? Instead of going to
Las Vegas and Monte Carlos, join together make
a positive documentary on Arabs and Muslims in
American.
In conclusion, when it comes to Israel, the politics
of both Democrats and Republicans is one.
They fight over who can do the most for Israel.
We as Arabs and Muslims for now have to vote for
the less of the two evils. We should have voted for
the best person that can help as Americans first.
Like other Americans, we share the same worries.
We worry about our health care, about sending
our kids to college, about paying our mortgage
and preventing foreclosures and now we worry
about the worst economical times since the great
depression. For those who are voting solely based
on color I would like to remind them the following:
it was a white man that lied and started a very
unpopular war in Iraq, it was a white man that had
forewarning of bad economic times to come and
hide it from the American people. It was a white
man that is now destroying your IRA and 401K. If
you examine both candidates solely based on the
facts and the issues, Senator Obama wins hands
down. If you do not like my title, do the things that
I mentioned and then only then, I will change it.
Tabouli, cont’d from page 16
love some hookah especially
apple or grape flavor. It is light
and nice to have, especially after
such a filling meal. So as you
can see we like the American
Thanksgiving traditional holiday,
but we spice it up with our
own Middle Eastern style every
year.
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I remember when I was younger
I would not eat all day just
to have room for all those carb
filled foods. We started so many
traditions on that day. It is not just all about the food, we have so many other things we enjoy
on that day. For instance after dinner we like to go for a walk and then sit in the theater room
watching a holiday movie. It is also nice to look around and see the family growing all my
nieces and nephews running around. Now this year will be my little baby’s first Thanksgiving.
It is a tradition I had to get my Lebanese husband used to. He never celebrated Thanksgiving
until we got married, because in Lebanon it is not a holiday. But sure enough he’s on board
and anything with food and family is appealing to him!
My friend from Morocco
likes to go to the butcher and
get halal turkey (Halal means
the meat has been blessed and
the food has been killed/butchered
following Islamic law,
similar to Kosher law under the
Jewish religion). I found this
to be very interesting. She told
me there is even a wait, so apparently
there are many that 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
Mr. & Mrs. Merhabi at Thanksgiving
rice. Instead of a pumpkin pie,
their family enjoys some kenafe and baklava (Arabic sweets yum) with their tea. I don’t think
they have the football on their TV, but definitely she has some loud family members gathered
and talking away. She was telling me that she is glad to take part in the holiday because
sometimes life in the states can be so hectic. This hectic life leaves less time for family and
leisure for so many. So she said it is great to have a day where they can sit together as a family,
enjoying good food and good company.
good health, our life, and having the basic necessities.
It is holiday that does not discriminate;
you can originate from anywhere in the
world and still celebrate this American holiday
in your own way. So I say to you and to your
family; “Happy Thanksgiving and please pass
the Tabouli salad!”
Thanksgiving may not be a tradition abroad,
but I love taking part in the holiday with my
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
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To be a part of this page, please e-mail the offi ce at:
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November 2008 • Page 23

CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY
Myth #1: You'll never see your
family & friends
again.
We’d like to dispel a few myths about working for the Central Intelligence Agency. Our careers are similar to
those of any major corporation — with a variety of opportunities available.You will most likely work on location at CIA
Headquarters, experiencing a life style that includes social and cultural activities in the nation’s capital and the Virginia and
Maryland suburbs. Our professional environment also encompasses more areas of activity and expertise than any commercial
enterprise or university. So, your friends and family will still be part of your life every day — as they would with almost any
other career choice you make. An equal opportunity employer and a drug-free work place.
For additional information and to apply, visit: www.cia.gov
THE WORK OF A NATION. THE CENTER OF INTELLIGENCE.
November 2008 • Page 24
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