Oct/Nov 2010 BHA Post

In this Issue...

Pink Out for Breast Cancer

BHA Junior represents America at the Youth Olympics

Hats Raise Hope

Discipline Policy Controversy

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Page 4

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Brighter Horizons Academy

Volume 7 Issue 1

October/November 2010

Garland, TX 75044

by Khadija Saifullah Staff Writer

The Pakistan flood began in July 2010 following heavy monsoon rains in the country’s regions of Khyber, Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, Punjab and Balochistan regions.

Present estimates indicate that over two thousand people have died and over a million homes have been destroyed since the flooding began. The United Nations estimates that more than 21 million people are injured or homeless as a result of the flooding, exceeding the combined total of individuals affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the 2005 Kashmir earthquake and the 2010 Haiti earthquake.

At one point, approximately one-fifth of Pakistan’s total land area was underwater due to the

flooding.

Since it was an emergency, BHA Student Council quickly organized a group to hold up posters and donation boxes before and after school, as well as in the hallways to encourage the cause. They managed to raise $7,007 for donation.

The volunteers were newly elected StuCo President, Noor Alkurdi [12], Maryam Bhakrani [12], Komal Sawani [10], Aseel Dweik [10], Shadan Alwan [10], Aline Fawaz [7], Waed Alhayek [7], Ibrahim Husseini [10], and Mouaadh Bellouar [10].

Though we are just a small Islamic private school in Garland, Texas, Alkurdi strongly believes that we made an impact on the victims in Pakistan.

“I am 100% sure that this project was the greatest accomplishment of BHA Student Council

Photo by Sumayyah Zidan

Record-Breaking Funds Raised

Ms. Jenin Sallouha, StuCo Advisor, and Mr. Rodwaan Saleh, Islamic Relief South Central Regions Manager, proudly display the check for $7, 007.00. The donation was given on behalf of StuCo for the victims of the the Pakistan Flood

regarding humanitarian aid, Alhamdulilah! We have had many projects throughout the previous years such as food drives for the homeless,

shoe drives for Muslim refugees, and Hurricane Katrina aid, but the result of the Pakistan project surpasses all,” Alkurdi said. “We were pressured,

yet determined, to reach the goal set by Dr. Adnan of $6K. There were times where we lost hope and never thought we would

Compassion, 5

New Era of Discipline has Begun BHA Captures Third at TAJE Live Competition

Photo Courtesy of NKE

Features 2

came back.”

According to most teachers and staff, Gomaa has already made some huge changes and improvements in the discipline policy as well as enforcing it consistently.

“He’s turned the school 359 degrees around. Why? If it was 360 degrees, we’d go back where we started from,” math teacher, Maria Zidan, said. “Kids are more disciplined. Teachers are teaching and students are learning more efficiently.”

Despite teachers’ praise of Gomaa’s extreme changes in discipline, Gomaa, himself, insists that he’s only enforcing the rules.

“We do have a system here. I made some changes in the system. All that I’m doing is following the

Editorial 3

Vice Principal, 4

by Rahel Usman Staff Writer

for every win that a school receives. With all our wins in photography, we were able to place 3rd overall.” A spectacular photography win was Sumayyah Zidan’s [9] Best of Show Award for her Superior Photo in the Taste of San Antonio category. She won out of

Brighter Horizons Academy’s journalists, photographers, and designers were awarded the third place Sweepstakes Award at the Texas Association of Journalism Educators’ (TAJE) Fall Fiesta in San Antonio.

Photographers, 5 Fourteen BHA students competed in TAJE’s live competition and educational workshops, in which 77 schools participated.

Mrs. Stacey Ahmed Pictured L to R: Dania Tassabhji (9), Sara Ahmad (9), commented, Sahar Kuzbari (9) and Maryam Elnashar (9) sort through “Points are the pictures that they will enter into the Scavenger Hunt Competition. They unfortunately did not place this year. awarded

News 6

Photo Courtesy of NKE

it gave parents a lot of hope that chaos would be reduced,” a BHA parent Four years ago, Mr. mentioned.

Mahmoud Gomaa held Gomaa is really the place of Vice-Principal impressed in Brighter and Horizons enthusiastic Academy. about the Now, for Islamic the 2010-11 community academic in the school Dallas area, year, he has especially returned to because of BHA. how much Even before effort parents Gomaa was devote the official to their vice-principal children. of BHA, “The parents sense of Mahmoud Gomaa, returns to the expressed Academy as Vice Principal aft er a community much hope five year absence. is really very and trust strong here in his ability to manage when we come to caring the students and enforce about our kids.

I can call discipline. it a religious community,” “Last year when we Gomaa said. “That is why I heard he was coming,

by Safa Mohammed Staff Writer

Entertainment 7

BHAPost

The

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FEATURES

Oct/Nov 2010

Olympic Dreams within Striking Reach Fencer, Mona Shaito, chosen to represent America in the Summer Youth Olympics

by Rahel Usman Staff Writer

Photo Courtesy of NKE

Photo Courtesy of Shaito Family

Azerbaijan.” With all the traveling Mona Shaito, BHA and competitions, Junior, competed in the she has made Youth Olympics this past worldwide friends. summer in Singapore and They reunite before won 5th place. the tournament at Mona, now 16, started any World Cup, but fencing when she was when the competition 9 due to her mother’s starts, they focus on encouragement. Now, their goal. seven years later, she says Mona went it has taught her many to Singapore things such as discipline this summer to and motivation. Some compete in the might think that managing Youth Olympics. her life of competition She remembers and normal life might be that before every difficult, but Mona says, tournament, “It depends in how good including this one, you are at balancing your “I feel really nervous Mona Shaito (left) faces her Italian opponent Manicini (right) at the 2010 Summer Youth Olympics in August. life. You need to have a but excited. Like, schedule.” of her life is Islam. When like running or training. but it is.” anxious. And, then Her biggest supporters asked whether fencing has Sometimes a loss can be When asked about any the adrenaline rush starts.” are her father and mother, increased her faith in any humiliating.

Sometimes, special diet she follows, She continues, “The Youth who are at every world way, she says, “I believe there are funny incidents, Mona mentioned that her cup she attends. Her World Olympics was my best that it has because every like when a referee is diet is healthy overall.

Cups take place in different tournament. The training time I get on the strip to expecting a Japanese She says, “We only have locations around the world. was as hard as Olympian fence, I’ll read Ayat-ulcompetitor to come organic food in the house. training. People think Traveling around the Kursi. And, I always thank because of your last name.”

Sometimes, I’ll eat chips or because this is the Youth world is one of Mona’s God.” Furthermore, all Through all of the ups drink soda.”

Olympics, the training favorite part of fencing. her friends know she’s and downs, Mona plans Mona’s training has paid isn’t as hard and intense as She says, “The most Muslim, so, in a way, she to continue to compete. off .

Her 5th place medal normal Olympian training, exotic place I’ve been to is feels she’s making Da’wah She is planning to try added to (preaching) when she tells for scholarships; she has her growing them about Islam. already received two: one collection of Mona advises young from Ohio State University five trophies people who want to and one from a private and 40 plus compete in sports to, “Get college. Always striving medals. involved in something you for more and higher However, really have a liking for level competitions, Mona fencing isn’t because you’re not going to explains, “I’m planning just training be good in the beginning on attending the 2012 and winning.

Olympics, Insha’allah. And, but will start to improve.

She relates, Be open-minded.” if not, then the 2016.” She “Some days continues, “I will train in I’m just college and then go on.” really tired.

Mona Shaito makes her Olympic announcement at last spring’s Excellence Forum, which The most important part I don’t feel showcased many students’ talents.

Students go “Passionately Pink” for a Cure

by Afia Tariq Editor-in-Chief

have died from it in the United States alone. This organization strives to raise funds and educate people in the battle against cancer through global events. Since its inception, the organization has raised billions of dollars for research, education, and health services.

Brighter Horizons has proudly donated to this organization for the second year in a row.

Picture of Student Council from L to R; Aseel Dweik [10], Janat Asmar [10], Rahel Usman [10], Ayah Housini, are very hardworking students, who took the time to volunteer during their own break.

Photo Courtesy of NKE

and pink lemonade.

Students were also required to pay three dollars to wear a pink scarf/polo for the cause.

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure is the world’s largest network fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care, and find a cure for cancer patients.

According to the US Cancer Statistics Working Group, almost 200,000+ people have been diagnosed with breast cancer and 40,000+

Photo by Sara Ahmad

Student Council Members, Ayesha Jilani (7), Aline Fawaz (7) and Rania Qashmar (7), promote the sales of ribbons and pencils for charity.

Photo by Sara Ahmad

Students showed their support for the fight against breast cancer on October 27th by wearing pink scarves or pink polos.

Along with other cancersupporters in Dallas, BHA raised money and wore pink to show support.

Brighter Horizons has raised and donated over $1300 to the “Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation”.

“It [the profit] definitely exceeded my expectations.

We did much better than I thought we would, and it feels great to have the support from the parents in projects like these where we reach towards the community as a whole,” said Noor Al- Kurdi, President of Student Council.

The money was raised by selling packages including: wrist bands, pencils, ribbons, homemade pink cookies

Photo by Nida AbuBaker

“Wear pink, raise funds, and fight for the cure”

StuCo frosting party resulted in addtionoal money being raised.

Students were able to purchase and wear wristbands to show their support

The

BHAPost

EDITORIAL

Oct/Nov 2010

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Disclipine Policy Sparks Controversy Editorial Staff Editor-In-Chief Afia Tariq Managing Editor Aisha Lee

Staff Writers Abdullah Elheet Hena Hafizullah Faraha Hasan Aisha Lee Safa Mohammed Khadija Saifullah Sana Syed Rahel Usman Abdullah Zidan

Photography Staff Head of Photography Aysha Ahmed Staff Photographers Nida AbuBaker Hadi Abusaad Sara Ahmad Yasmeen Akel Mohammad Dalaq Maryam Elnashar Amir Hamza Sahar Kuzbari Dania Tassabhji Sara Zalghout Abdullah Zidan Sumayyah Zidan

Designing Staff Layout Designers Ayah Elnashar Naailah Nathani

Cartoonists Beth Almallah Amina Syed

Advisors

Unzip your jackets; the new policy is here. With Br. Mahmoud Gomaa taking office as Vice Principal, BHA students and staff have seen many changes in the discipline policy.

Many new rules are slowly being implemented such as the strict dress codes. No jewelry is being allowed as well as different colored hijabs, even hijab under pieces must follow the code. Sock colors are being checked during prayer time. A strict and new controversial policy has also been put into action: no jackets are allowed to be zipped up, as well as no hoods, or logos.

Strict rules have been applied on school rules such as loitering, or not having a hall pass while out of the classroom.

There is no eating or gum-chewing allowed on school grounds except during lunch in the cafeteria. Lockers are randomly being checked as well as backpacks.

Tardy policies have also been kicked up a notch. If a student is tardy in the morning more than six times, their grades will be

dropped an entire letter.

A lot of other small rules are being introduced to the system such as talking during prayer time, minor pushing/shoving, or even the concealment of truth. Breaking any of these rules, big or small, usually results in an infraction slip. If students repetitively misbehave, it could result in a more serious punishment such as detention or suspension.

These policies can positively effect discipline; for example, they help to keep students under control during class and throughout the hallways. They also provide much more class time because teachers don’t have to spend so much time lecturing students. However, with more rules like these, it looks like the school spirit is being depleted.

Many students responded negatively to the survey done by the BHA Post on page 4 clearly displaying that the school spirit is going down despite all the efforts of the Student Council to raise it by organizing spirit days for the school.

An important issue regarding the policy is the documentation.

Unfortunately, our school does not have a complete written set of rules. Many students argue that the policy looks like it’s coming from mid-air, with no written record to support it. New rules are being made constantly and almost every time this happens, there is no documentation being redundant.

Although all the general policies were reviewed with the students on the first day of school, students are probably frustrated that they don’t have a list of rules readily available and often new more rules are being thrown down at the same time. At the moment, “policies are being reviewed and will be posted shortly,” according to the administration.

It is important that students be held accountable for their behavior, but at the same time, students have a right to see rules and regulations documented and be prepared for the written consequences. To reduce frustration and confusion of the students

as well as teachers, it is suggested that rules be posted throughout school and EdLine as soon as possible.

In conclusion, there are four very important factors to make a discipline policy effective.

The first is information; policies shouldn’t be rumors, but hard, written fact as mentioned for the documentation issue.

Another is having a purpose for every rule in the discipline policy.

Third is the involvement and understanding of parents, students, and staff. Lastly, there should be the consistent enforcement of the discipline policy, but with that enforcement should come some flexibility; situations should be reviewed and sometimes forgiven.

All of these policies are causing a bit of controversy, but this is a very big transition year. With so many new policies being introduced at once, patience from the staff, parents and especially the students is required to get through this stage.

-NewspaperNawal Elnashar -WritingTeresa Nikravan -PhotographyStacey Ahmed

Proofreader Jaena Almallah

The BHA Post is published by the Journalism Club of Brighter Horizons Academy, 3145 Medical Plaza Dr., Grarland, TX 75044. The BHA Post is a member of the Interscholastic League Press Conference and a recipient of 2005 Award of Honor in overall ILPC newspaper competition.

Disclaimer The views and opinions of the journalism students do not necessarily reflect or represent the views of the Academy’s Administration. The BHA Post is a platform by which the student body’s voice may be represented within the highest journalistic ethical standards.

Cartoon Illustrated by Amina Syed

Letters to the Editors All of our readers are encouraged to participate in the forum by submitting letters to the editor for publication.

Letters can be mailed or E-mailed to journalism@ bhaprep.org. Letters must include the signature and telephone number of the writer. We reserve the right to edit letters for length and grammar.

A Note from the Editors Our most humble apologies for any inconvenience for the delay of this issue of the BHA Post. Due to Ramadan extending into September and our holiday breaks since then, the newest batch of staff members had a late start.

We give the general public our promise to try to uphold and guarantee a punctual newspaper. We hope you enjoy this issue of the recap of our school thus far. Thank you for your cooperation. We hope that you continue to find interest in our publication.

To view this issue in color, visit www.bhaprep.org/school-newspaper

by Khadija Saifullah Staff Writer

red hijab for girls and red shoes and/or tie for boys.

“Red Ribbon Week plays into Drug Awareness Week. Therefore, since we had tied red ribbons around the trees, passed out red ribbon stickers, and given out red ribbon bookmarks, I felt like it was a good idea to have a Red Hijab Day/ Red Tie/Red Shoes Day,” Orfaly [11] said. “I noticed students enjoy having the chance to dress differently, and the more we get the students involved, the better.”

Student Council’s original plan was for boys to wear a red polo shirt, but Vice Principal, Mahmoud Gomaa was against the proposal.

This was the first year BHA implemented the red shoes/tie/hijab with Red Ribbon Week.

“I think its great how our school celebrates Red Ribbon Week along with other schools; it’s an influence,” Hadi Abusaad [9] said. “Though I think the school can make the week more interactive than just wearing a red tie or shoes (for boys) on one day of that week.”

The

Hats Raise Hope

by Aisha Lee & Faraha Hasan Managing Editor & Staff Writer

The combination of a much needed spirit day, the desire to help others, and the desire for a fun day to wear non-uniform attire resulted in the highly successful Hats On Day at the ECE building. Ms. Stacey Ahmed, events coordinator, discovered the Foundation for Children with Cancer (FCC). The Foundation encourages Hats On Days across schools to promote cancer awareness. Ms. Donna Third grade teachers, pictured left to right, Ms. Donna Velasquez-Lee, Ms. Ruhina Syed, and Ms. Amany Isa wear their hats and smiles to support Velasquez-Lee, third children with cancer. grade teacher, developed the idea. It was held on her son, Ali Almajidi [1]. like Hats On Day. Husni October 14, 2010.

“I got a hat. It’s ugly, Zeidan [4] said they want Hand-decorated posters but it’s a hat,” said Ms. Hats On Day every day. by the ECE Student Almajidi.

But, they’re not stopping Council lined the walls of Apparently any hat was there. Fifth graders have the building, better than no hat. taken Hats asking fellow “When you participate On Day as students to in Hats On Day, you make a stepping wear hats on life happier for children stone for October 14th. with cancer and show future events They were compassion for the many they would also requested difficulties young cancer like to have. to bring $1 patients face,” says the They want to donate to official website for FCC the freedom the FCC. In about Hats On Day. to choose return, they’d The donations for the what they receive a Foundation for Children wear and Hats On Day with Cancer added up to more spirit sticker stating $411 dollars. days.

‘We have our With as much Hats were hats on for enthusiasm as seen on Hats donned by kids fighting On Day, Ms. Lee is already all: cowboy cancer!’ Ms. planning more fun-filled hats, hats Zainab Beech, Sana El-Heet [4] sports her pink that supported spirit days. secretary, was and furry Superman hat. She “We have plans to do cancer donated to the cause and recieved approached one activity every month awareness, a sticker. by many eager in order to make the goofy hats, students wondering where and hats that were just for ECE building more fun,” to give their donations. quoting Ms. Lee’s plans plain old fun. Ms. Dalal Students said they on the future of ECE spirit Almajidi saw so many would definitely like to days. kids wearing hats that she have more spirit days rushed to retrieve one for Photo by Sumayyah Zidan

Drug Free is in our DNA Student Council held Red Ribbon Week on October 18-22, 2010 to increase drug awareness at BHA. This year, students posted their thumbprint on a banner that had this year’s slogan, ‘Being drug free is in our DNA!’ “Honestly, I feel like the place where drugs are least expected (an Islamic School) is the place that needs the most awareness,” Karma Orfaly [11], Student Council member said. “When students feel like this sort of thing does not affect their lives, drugs might come unexpectedly into their lives, and then they will not know how to handle the situation properly and in an Islamic manner.”

Student Council is doing its best to alert students to stay away from drugs.

Orfaly believes knowing about the harms of drugs helps us refrain from them.

“Instead of ignorance is bliss, I feel like awareness is bliss,” Orfaly said. “The more you know about something, the more likely you are to learn how to implement it into your life if it is beneficial, and the more you know how to prevent it from happening in your life if it is harmful.”

On October 22, 2010, teachers and students were given the option to wear a

BHAPost

FEATURES

Oct/Nov 2010

Photo by Sumayyah Zidan

Page 4

Vice Principal, Mahmoud Gomaa, Returns to the Academy Continued from page 1

system with understanding and flexibility,” Gomaa said.

Even though most of the teachers and staff agree in their opinion of Gomaa, students are divided in their views and opinions of him. Many students feel that his policies are too strict and restricting for comfort. “It’s way too much,” a BHA student said. “We can barely breathe nowadays.”

Policies that students feel are too harsh include the strict tardy slip rules as well as the enforcement of the uniform.

“There is traffic in the hallways, and we can’t get to class on time because he closes the doors,” a

high school student said, referring to how teachers are required to lock their classroom doors as soon as the bell rings.

Teachers and staff, on the other hand, feel that

these rules are necessary for good discipline. “He’s put more pressure on kids to go to class on time. And he makes sure nobody’s skipping class. He’s doing great with discipline,” one BHA staff member said.

Even with the effort and strictness Gomaa is Go enforcing e regarding tardiness and uniform, those aren’t his main priorities.

“I need to work on the Aqeedah (Islamic Creed) of our kids and rrespect the rules of this school and rules of this country,” Gomaa cou said. “And of said Gr ap course to understand cours hic by Islam, that is my Isla Sa fa M main goal.” m oh am Some me d

students, though they agree that BHA needs better discipline, don’t think that Gomaa is fulfilling his role properly.

“He’s focusing too much on the little things. Not on the big things,” an 11th grade student said.

Noor Alkurdi, Student Council President, welcomes Gomaa, and believes that he is going to have a positive effect on BHA discipline.

“I think he’s improved it tremendously. And I really think BHA is going to change for the better in terms of discipline because he’s doing a really great job and it’s great to have him,” Alkurdi said.

Besides the StuCo President, there are other people who like and appreciate Gomaa despite the strict policies.

“He’s my favorite dude in the world. No joke,” Malak Shaito, [9], said.

Gomaa notes that BHA and discipline is indeed

improving day by day, however he refuses to take the credit himself.

“It is hard to judge my own work. I will leave it for parents and teachers.

It is getting better day after day with the help of the teachers, community, parents and of course Dr. Adnan,” Gomaa said humbly.

However, despite having to live up to the expectations of parents and teachers and simultaneously please the students, Gomaa is still happy and enthusiastic about working at BHA and looks forward to a good future for the school and the students.

“Alhamdulillah, I am satisfied and happy for being back in Dallas and BHA,” Gomaa said. “I’m hoping kids will not be scared of me, but they’ll understand me, and we’ll work together for their future.”

The

BHAPost

FEATURES

Oct/Nov 2010

Compassion for Pakistan

New StuCo Officers make their Promises: More School Spirit Student Council held its annual student body elections during Social Studies classes on Monday, September 27th. Many people ran for different offices such as president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, parliamentarian, and historian. After about three weeks of colorful campaigning and decision-making, votes were cast and the winners were announced the next day during morning assembly. The winning candidate for president was Noor Alkurdi [12]. Alkurdi called this a “great surprise for her” and mentioned that she wanted “to give back to BHA and leave BHA knowing I have done my part.”

For vice president, Ahmed Al-Kadri [12] has been voted in and now promises to “increase

“

Continued from page 1

be able to do it, but within only 2 weeks we raised $6,800. We could not believe we exceeded our goal. It was completely emotional and aweinspiring. Everyone was so supportive and gave generous donations as they walked by us and smiled. The project’s success portrays the true unity and brotherhood in Islam that we should all be proud of and keep alive, Alhamdulillah!”

“The flood in Pakistan impacted not only the victims, but our understanding of what they are going through,” Ms. Jaena Almallah, High School English teacher said. “With all the media, the pictures, the news articles, it attracts us to donate and be inclined to somehow help them.”

Few of the Pakistani students’ families were affected by the flood.

However, students pondered the tragic incident and then thanked Allah for their blessings.

said, “We are all one big family here and the only way to make changes and implement new ideas is by working together and having hope in BHA.” Some of the students questioned admitted that they had had a hard time choosing a candidate for president. Some even mentioned it to be a competition for popularity, but most said that Alkurdi will do well in this position. “She’ll be really good because she’s been a student here and knows exactly what she’s dealing with,” said Noora Khalaf [11]. Many teachers also agreed that she’d do well.

“She’s been a student for a long time and has a great personality which fits the job,” said Samira Siddiqui, staff member.

When students were asked about the new vice president, most said that he has the potential to change the school, but he still needs to prove himself.

school spirit and make it a greater school.”

For treasurer, the winning candidate was Kahlil Said [10] who said he would “keep the money and rightfully count it.” Shadan Alwan [10], secretary winner, said she would try to “keep the Student Council meetings organized so that we can get more accomplished.”

For parliamentarian, Hafsa p Wahid [10] was voted in and lastly, for historian, Mouaadh Bellaouar[10].

All the candidates made many promises during their speeches.

Alkurdi promised P.E. lockers, more spirit days, student led prayers, carpets for praying, and a cleaner school. “I am not superwoman, unfortunately, but I am a very efficient worker and I am determined to keep my promises. I have a great team to work with and, Insha’Allah, together we can accomplish what is on the list and more.” Alkurdi

“

by Afia Tariq Editor-in-Chief

Page 5

“It made me very sad to see so many of our Muslim brothers and sisters being left alone or dead because of the flood,” Mariam Aslam [9] said. “And it made me want to help them somehow.”

“Even though the victims are far from us, we feel the need to donate for our brothers and sisters in Islam,” Dima Basatneh [11] said. “It helps us realize how blessed we are to be living in perfect conditions.”

“To me, the flood was devastating. It was really hard to get over,” Sarah Yousuf [6] said.

Although the victims in Pakistan are gradually starting to replenish their communities, there is still much people can do to help them. Our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) once said, “Be kind, for whenever kindness becomes part of something, it beautifies it. Whenever it is taken from something, it leaves it tarnished.”

difficulties. He said, “I was kinda praying that my luck would change.” His luck did change as he won two awards, a Superior and an Excellence, this year. He says, “I wanted to win, and when I won two, I felt better. It felt amazing that after years I actually won something.”

Hena Hafizullah [11] competed in Review Writing.When asked what she liked about TAJE, she said, “I liked that it’s in San Antonio and its competitiveness.” She continued, “It was hard, but I love writing so that made it worth it.” When asked how she felt about her loss, she said she was disappointed in herself and she could do better.

She says she would return because she loves TAJE, writing, San Antonio, and yearbook.

Komal Sawani [10] is a new designer on the

“I was looking all over the place to find a great action photo, so I was happy when I saw these girls twirling their dresses,” Sumayyah Zidan [9]. For this photo, she received the Best of Show Award out of all Superior Photo Awards.

Amir Hamza [11] received an Excellence Award for the photo shown above. He also won a Superior Award and a Honorable Mention.

yearbook staff. She said her experience in San Antonio was great. She says, “I liked how we were all in the hotel together, and we all hung out with the teachers. The breakfast was good. I wanted to take home the amazing chef.” Sawani competed in Basic Yearbook Design.

Photo by Aysha Ahmed

Photo by Abdullah Zidan

After two years of technical difficulties Abdullah Zidan [10] won a Superior Award for this action photo.

Sara Zalghout [11] recieved three awards. Above is her Excellence Award winning photo.

Photo by Sumayyah Zidan

101 onsite entries.

All awards won were in the Photography department, although there were designers and writers. When asked why photographers had more success than writers and designers, Ms. Stacey Ahmed answered, “Our experienced writers weren’t all able to attend the live competition this year, and it is hard to get new writers prepped in time for the fall competition. The group of photographers that competed are all returning.

They have experienced the competition at least once with the exception of Sumayyah Zidan [9]; this was her first year in the individual competition.

They have been in Journalism at least two years and have had more training and been to more workshops dedicated to photography.”

BHA won 14 awards

at TAJE. As mentioned, all the awards were in On-site Photography, so congratulations to: Aysha Ahmed [12], Amir Hamza [11], Sara Zalghout [11], Abdullah Zidan [10], and Sumayyah Zidan [9].

This year is Ahmed’s last year to compete.

Surprisingly, she didn’t win an award last year.

She said, “I was really nervous because of last year. I really wanted to make up for last year.” She definitely made up for last year with four awards: three Honorable Mentions and one Excellence. She said, “I felt like I couldn’t breathe. I was shocked and overwhelmed.” As a closing thought, she says, “I don’t regret last year because Allah blessed me this year.”

Sumayyah Zidan stole the show this year with her Best of Show for her Superior Photo. It was her first year in the individual competition. She said, “It was really fun.” But, according to her, she was very confused. She said, “I had no idea what to shoot, but I had fun running all over San Antonio.” Her reaction to winning was, “I was really surprised because I was going there with the attitude of just trying to win one, and it didn’t matter what it was. And, when I won Best of Show I was shocked because it was so unexpected.”

Abdullah Zidan won after two years of technical

Photo by Amir Hamza

Continued from page 1

Photo by Sara Zalghout

Journalism Staff Photographers Return Victorious

In her final year participating in TAJE, Aysha Ahmed [12] won four awards to add to her previous five.

Her photo shown above received an Excellence Award.

She said, “I was nervous, and I had no idea what to do, but I guess it turned out really well in the end.”

She says she was not really surprised that she lost.

She would return because she says it was a great experience and so much fun.

BHAPost

NEWS

Oct/Nov 2010

The

Page 6

Young Leaders Take the Reigns Student Council elections in the main building have recently come to an end, and things have settled down.

However, at the ECE, it’s a different story.

Ms. Donna VelasquesLee, a third grade teacher, decided to start something similar to the Student Council at the main building which would take place within the ECE building.

“It’s because we weren’t included last year when you (Main) were doing things like spirit days,” Lee said.

Student Council at ECE is made up of a group of student representatives from first grade to fifth grade.

“We have two representatives from each class,” Lee said.

The method of choosing the class representative for student council varied from teacher to teacher.

“Some kids won by election; some were chosen by teachers,” Lee said.

Even though both student councils share similarities, ECE Student Council is not considered a club.

“

“The only thing I don’t like is we’re not considered a club,” Lee said. “I think it’s because we’re not open to everyone.”

Another difference is that the main purpose of student council in ECE is to promote school spirit throughout the building.

“You guys are more serious; we’re more for school spirit,” Lee said.

Even though, initially, the main focus was school spirit, student representatives take part in some other activities and take their job quite seriously.

“It’s like you’re helping the school and people who are sick and homeless,” Moiz Rehman [5], a Student Council representative, said.

The actual elections for the StuCo took place on Friday, the 8th of October during lunch time. The fourth and fifth graders were eligible to run for the available positions.

“Only fourth and fifth graders can run,” Lee said.

“The elections took place during lunch.”

Ayah Alhalwani [5], the elected president of ECE Student Council enjoys her office.

“It feels good and it’s nice,” she said.

“

by Safa Mohammed Staff Writer

Her job is to organize the meetings and make sure everything is orderly.

“I make the meeting, and I go up to people and tell them what we’re going to do,” Alhalwani said.

Alhalwani is a good student and supported by both students and teachers.

“She’s very caring, responsible and good,” Sumaria Baloch, a fifth grade TA, said. “We’re all very happy for her.”

Her teachers also agree that she has the qualities that enable her to make a great Student Council president.

“She’s a good leader and likes to help the kids,” Dalal Almajidi, fifth grade teacher, said.

Other student council offices include the VicePresident, Alzaim [5], as well as the secretary, Yazeed Mustafa [5].

They all work together to sponsor school spirit activities.

“We have special days like Hats On Day, where we went around to collect all the money,” Alzaim said. “We take count and see what special things they do.”

Student representatives take pride in being part of Student Council by wearing their special IDs. “It’s to show we’re proud to be in Student Council,” Danya Zuaiter, a third grade representative, said.

Ramadan Poetry Competition

by Abdullah Elheet Staff Writer

contestants expressed surprise at winning.

Reasons given for participating ranged from wanting to show what fasting is all about to simply getting a grade. It took the winning students about 10 to 20 minutes to write their poems.

Third place winner, Hasan commented that she likes writing when she is angry.

However, Elheet was inspired by the possibility of a non-Muslim reading his poem. He wanted to illustrate what fasting really means to Muslims, what it does, and how it helps.

Dr. Adnan Omran, Principal, thanked Ms. Chelsey Rictor, girls P.E. teacher, for judging and Ms. Almallah and Ms. Salem for arranging the contest.

He also thanked all the winners and participants.

A third annual Ramadan Poetry Contest is planned for next year.

“Yeah, I think it’s pretty cool, because they get to wear the IDs every day,” Lee said. “I think they just want to stand out.”

ECE Student Council Representatives First Grade Representatives Abedlrahman Nada Adlouni Aadil Madani Subhana Siddiqui Ayah Alhalwani (5), ECE StuCo President

Seccond Grade Representatives Marwan El-Awady Manaal Mohammed Rayyan Zamir Ahmed Lachtar Third Grade Representatives Danya Zuaiter Moiz Rehman Lana Mahrouq Abdoulali Jirani

Nazir Alzaim (5), ECE StuCo Vice-President

Yazeed Mustafa (5), ECE StuCo Secretary

Fourth Grade Representatives Haniya Siddiqui Yusuf Faheid Yasmine Gharbieh Hamza Iqbal Fifth Grade Representatives Yazeed Mustafa Ayah Alhalwani Noor Ali Nazir Alzaim

Student Crossing Guards at ECE

by Afia Tariq Editor-in-Chief

Fifth grade students of the ECE building are now standing outside in the early morning during drop-off time to help with traffic. Eight children greet, wave, and help kids to get out of their cars.

They are there from 7:40 A.M. to 8:00 A.M. “We want to give them something special after being disappointed of not moving into the main building,” said Ms. Velasques-Lee, third grade teacher. The fifth grade students were chosen by a raise of hands of who could make it to school before 7:40 A.M , and had to pass the safety exam.

First to Fourth grade students also patrol the hallways.

“They walk in the hallways, make sure no one’s running or talking and ask them to stop if they do,” said Lee. Two students are chosen from every classroom and alternate every two weeks. They have green vests and patrol during transition time.

Photo by Maryam Elnashar

“The Power of Fasting” served as the topic for the Annual Ramadan Poetry Contest. Sponsoring this year’s event on September third and fourth was Ms. Jaena Almallah, English department, and Ms. Majida Salem, Islamic Studies department.

This year’s winners are Aisha Lee [9] for first place, Abdullah Elheet [10] for second place, and Faraha Hasan [9] for third place.

Honorable mention went to Hiba Khan [10].

Requirements for the poetry contest included a style for rhyming, remaining on topic, no decoration, and

simplicity. Commenting on last year’s judging, Almallah said, “The judges had a hard time seperating the design of the poems from the meaning them.”

When asked the reason for this topic, Almallah responded, “I found it fascinating and powerful that millions of people all over the world fast together at the same time.

It is a powerful testimony to the world about God.” Continuing she said, “I wanted my students to take pride in their religion and realize the power of their voice.”

All

Their ID signifies that they are a member of the ECE Student Council and the students enjoy wearing it.

Students from ECE have their own safety patrol. Yusuf Faheid [4] is helped out of his car in the morning.

BHAPost

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NEWS/ENTERTAINMENT

Oct/Nov 2010

Page 7

Many students, teachers, and administrators filed outside on the BHA fields on sunny September 16, 2010 to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr with a Soccer Day. The idea of Soccer Day was Mr. Mahmoud Gomaa’s, the Vice Principal. The school provided pizza for lunch, which Aimen Hayee, [10] said was “really good.”

After the pizza, the students went outside for the soccer tournament.

The boys were in the front and the girls were in the back. The teams were made by preference, although some who hadn’t signed up were assigned to teams. Some students didn’t like this, like Inas Shabanah, [9] and Ayda Kokash, [9].

Every team had time allotted when they would play against another team.

Some students, such as Aimen Hayee and Aseel Dweik, [10] disliked the

“short” amount of time given, stating, “I would change the amount of time.”

Whoever won a game would proceed to the next match. The teams were playing for the “winning title”, and the champion student team would challenge the teachers.

An anonymous witness said that the game was “so funny”. The champion girls’ team, “The Arabs”, which consisted of some seventh grade girls. They played against the teachers and won. The champion boys’ team, “Ultimatum”, which consisted of a mix of ninth and tenth grade boys. They, too, won

Photo by Sara Ahmad

by Rahel Usman Staff Writer

Coach Chelsey was on top of her game by keeping everything under control and organized.

BOOK REVIEW

against the teachers. “The ultimate game between (the winning student team and teachers) was an exciting game, however, on a bigger field the teachers would have won!!” claims Coach Arbad Ismail, who enjoyed playing against the boys because he likes to challenge his students.

Coach Arbad, also, said, “We would love to do it again, but it needs to be all day and not crammed into two hours for the whole school,” and he continued, “I hope the school will allow us to do it again and not just at Eid time.”

Reviews about the day were mixed. Some students felt that it was a good idea but not carried through properly. Some felt it was a good idea because it was fun, and they got to skip class.

Many students, including Deema Zalloum, [10]said they would like to participate in an event like this because, “All the guys and girls could get on the field and be crazy and have

Photo by Sara Ahmad

Students Triumph and Enjoy Soccer Day

Ms. Laila Rumsey (right) and Rahel Hamza [7] (left) attempt to over take each other by giving their best effort.

fun.”

Another complaint, as Deema Zalloum and Aseel Dweik said was that students weren’t allowed to go inside. Others wish it

Three Cups of Tea

by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin

by Faraha Hasan Staff Writer

“Here (in Pakistan and Afghanistan), we drink three cups of tea to do business; the first you are a stranger, the second you become a friend, and the third, you join our family, and for our family, we are prepared to do anythingeven die,” said Haji Ali, Korphe Village Chief, Karakoram Mountains, Pakistan.

Three Cups of Tea tells the true story of Greg Mortenson’s failed attempt to climb the summit of K2, the second tallest mountain in the world, leading him

to meet Haji Ali and being inspired to change the world.

This book is clear evidence that one person truly can change the world.

He influenced his mother’s school of over 600 students to begin a ‘Pennies for Pakistan’ drive and raise 62,345 pennies (the equivalent of $623.45).

He has won many awards for his humanitarian work and has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for the past two years. The struggles he has faced to

TECH BYTES eview R

by Aisha Lee Managing Editor

I love going online and surfing the web. But, it becomes annoying when I just happen to click on that innocent looking link which turns out to be a “Haram bomb”. For times like these, don’t you just wish things could be tagged, “I’m Halal!”?

Reza Sardeha, age 21, was having similar problems and decided to create the first Islamicview based search engine conveniently named, “I’m Halal.”

The “I’m Halal” search engine gives tailored results that comply with Islamic views and beliefs.

Ten million users a month, mostly from Pakistan and the U.S., are using it instead of Google, Yahoo, and MSN. “I’m Halal,” posted one of its goal focuses as, “We want to make the world a better place where Halal standards are better developed and promoted.” However, some people might say the “I’m Halal” approach, which puts parameters around accessible content, is limiting.

I originally found out about the website when looking up NPR (National Public Radio) articles online for an assignment.

could have been a day that wasn’t as sunny. However, many enjoyed it and had fun.

Rating: Three cups out of three arrive at such success are conveyed admiringly in Three Cups of Tea. Mortenson is stirred by the kindness of the poor village of Korphe he comes upon in the Karakoram Mountains of Pakistan.

He tells Haji Ali he will build them a school after seeing most of the children of the village are so poor that they have to write their multiplication tables in the dirt by using sticks.

Mortenson goes back to America in full determination and spirit to return with enough

money to build the village a school.

Full of suspense, drama, and morals, Three Cups of Tea is a brilliantly written book

by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin. I recommend this book for those of you at least high school age or older waiting to be motivated and uplifted by a true story.

Book Cover Courtesy of ourlittlebooks.com

For more information about Three Cups of Tea and Greg Mortenson, visit www. threecupsoftea.com

imhalal.com Online Search Engine

I came across the “I’m Halal” site and thought, “Wow! What a cool invention!”

“I’m Halal” would definitely increase the percentage of Muslims/ Muslim families going online, if it is a useful search engine. I checked it out and searched a few terms. It is set up similar to Google. On a left-hand column of the page, there are direct links to AlJazeera, Twitter, Islam Online, and Wordpress.

Like Google, it has search options to look under: News Search, Web Search, or Quran Search.

Since it is still

Rating: Four clicks out of five

developing, it does have a few bugs. “I’m Halal” can’t search up specific words or specific quotes.

The creators advise when using the search engine to use more general terms.

Users are asked to rate pages relevant or not. The information gathered from the ratings will be analyzed to understand what specific kinds of pages users are interested in.

“I’m Halal” is on a mission to make the internet user friendly for Muslims. “We cherish the culture and lifestyle of Muslims……and have the feeling that the current state of the Internet isn’t

representing the values, mindset and lifestyle of these Internet users,”as quoted from the creators’ web page.

“I’m Halal” is definitely bringing something new to the virtual table that really isn’t half bad. Hey, even if it does have a few glitches, on the plus side, at least you know everything you’re viewing is preapproved Halal, which should make even your parents happy.

www.imhalal.com

Oct/Nov 2010

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BHAPost

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Page 8

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