CONVERSATIONS

CONVERSATIONS Community Magazine for Kids & Youth (Feb2024 – Edition) CURIOSITY, CREATIVITY, COLLABORATION An online magazine designed for the Central Jersey’s Muslim community’s kids and youth. Articles written for and by the kids and youth. Active opportunities for the kids and youths to participate and contribute to the content.

COVERSATIONS – OPPORTUNITIES FOR: * Write fiction and short stories * Join and write on community activities * Share your original art, graphic designs. * Share your basketball, soccer and swimming tips * Share your delicious food recipes * Use your design skills to put a magazine together

Conversations Editors

Amin AbdulGhani

Furqan Hashmi

COVERSATIONS – STAR CONTRIBUTOR’S

Yusuf Olia

Arshad Jamil

Muhammad Shawaiz Musthaq Memon

Hania Hashmi

Ismaeel Abdulghani

Setayesh Pasoon

Bisma Imran

Rida Hashmi

Anam Hashmi

Ahmed Abdulghani

Are you ready?

Conversations Sections

ISLAM4US

COMMUNITY

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

CAREER

SPORTS/ACTIVITES

MISCELLANEOUS

ISLAM4US

A message from Allah!

Al – Quran By – Rida Hashmi

Reference Surah 65 (Al-Talaq) Verse (2-3)

And for those who fear Allah, He (ever) prepares a way out. And He provides for him from (sources) he never could imagine. And If anyone who puts his trust in Allah, he will suffice him. Verily, Allah is sure to attain His purpose. Indeed, Allah has set a measure for all things.

ISLAM4US

The Power of Dua during the Battle of Badr – A lesson!

By – Hania Hashmi During the battle of the Badr, our dear Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. kept asking Allah despite the great odds against the Muslims, stretching his hands toward the qibla, "O Allah! Should these be defeated today, You will no longer be worshipped.“ Our prophet s.a.w. kept reciting his prayer until his cloak fell off his shoulders, at which point hazrat Abu Bakr r.a. picked it up and put it back on his shoulders and said, "O Prophet of Allah, you have cried out enough to your Lord. He will surely fulfil what He has promised you.“ Prayer got accepted, Allah sent his help and impossible became possible through supplication/dua and Allah reveal this, “When you asked for help from your Lord, He answered you. Indeed, I will aid you with a thousand of the angels in rows behind rows" (Sura 8 Anfal Aya 9)

COMMUNITY

Farewell to Our Dear, Imam Raouf Zaman of MCMC NJ. Who had served the community for over 20 years has recently moved to Orlando, Florida. As a community, we are sad and missing his presence and tireless efforts. In his 20 years grown up under his guidance are now he had seen the development of the serving the wider community. As per community to what it is now Centraljersey.com he said, “Interfaith including the expansion of the interaction is always very good and very masjid, development of the school, positive because we get to know more development of various educational about other religions and how they're programs for the Muslim and larger practiced,”. community population.

2ndly, his stance towards the “Billboard He worked hard to provide the Truck Displays Hateful, Anti-Islamic community with knowledge from Messages Targeting NJ Mosques” where the right sources and had been he said "We are taught to be reliant on instrumental in developing relations God, he’s our protector and if anything with the wider inter-faith & general happens to us it can only happen by his community. The students that have will"

COMMUNITY

Welcome to Our New Imam, Imam Abdullah Smith of MCMC NJ. Imam Abdullah Smith has joined the MCMC community as a new Imam in December 2023 . The community is fortunate to have him. He has over 25 years of experience and and development of 100+ education contributions to teaching , lecturing, programs around the country. counseling and motivational His education background includes a speaking. His previous role was Bachelor of Arts in Narrative Traditions Director of Religion Affairs at the (Hadith) and Theology from the Quran& Sunnah Association of University of Madinah, where he Central Florida.

Earlier he was graduated Summa Cum Laude. He also associated with the Islamic Society holds a PMP Certification. The imam can of Greater Houston and the Islamic be reached @ (732) 463-2004 x 101 or Center of Central Missouri. through email imam@mcmcnj.org.

As part of his experience, he has taught 20+ books, delivered MCMC hosted the meet and greet event numerous lecture in English and with the Imam. Please be a part of Arabic, provided counseling to MCMC to learn as “he brings a wealth families, and overseen the education of knowledge to MCMC.“

COMMUNITY

MCMC Presents Br. Arshad Khan Mondays – After Isha

MCMC Presents Br. Ziyad Abduelemin Sundays – After Isha

COMMUNITY

MCMC Presents Imam Abdullah Smith Wednesdays – After Isha

MCMC Presents Imam Abdullah Smith 1st Saturday every month,11am

COMMUNITY

MCMC Presents Mommy & Me Ages 3-5

MCMC Presents Imam Jawad Tuesdays – After Isha

COMMUNITY

ANNOOR ACADEMY Model UN Coming up in Mar2024

ANNOOR ACADEMY Basketball for Boys/Girls Go - Annoor Lightenings!

COMMUNITY

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

“Hanging in Midair” A Friendship Poem

By Anam H.

“Just a Little thing for You” A Friendship Poem

By Anam H.

Whenever I talk to you, I feel like I’m I know this is too small to show my flying, appreciation for you Like they’ll never be a use for crying, But it’s the best I can do, Whenever I look at you, I feel lost in Sometimes I think, could it be any the sky, worse, Like I’ll never ever again need to sigh, But since I got you, I know I’m not Like I’m content with everything you cursed, say, You are the girl I’ve been dreaming of I could listen to you talking for an all those years, entire day, You are the girl who can shield me Whenever you looked at me, I was lost from all those tears, in the skies, You are the best friend I could ever Just your speech was enough to make wish for, me mesmerized, You make me feel like I can soar, I always tried to make you proud of I did the most I could do, me, To show how much I love you!

So you forever could see, How much I admired you.

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

Hudhayfah was renowned for his honesty and sincerity, and he was never afraid to say what needed to be said, no matter how challenging or unpopular it may have proven to be.

"Speak the truth even if it is bitter," he Hudhayfah ibn al-Yaman was one of once advised. This lesson is particularly the closest companions of the important in the modern world, where Prophet Muhammad (SAW). He was a dishonesty and deceit are all too man of great character and courage, prevalent. By constantly attempting to who devoted his life to Islam and was be true to their words and deeds, even a prominent figure in the early history if it means defying social expectations, of the Muslim community. Hudhayfah Muslims can take inspiration from was known for his knowledge, Hudhayfah.

Learning from the life of Sahabah!

“Hudhayfah al-Yaman” Article By – Yusuf Olia

wisdom, and steadfastness in the face of adversity. His life serves as an We can obtain insight into the inspiration for Muslims in this significance of resisting oppression and generation, as many lessons can be injustice from Hudhayfah's life.

Hudhayfah was a warrior who stood learned from his example. out for justice and Muslim rights. He Being sincere and honest is one of the was an important player in the spread crucial things that Muslims should of Islam and took part in numerous battles. For modern Muslims, his take away from Hudhayfah's life.

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

stand and denounce injustice in the modern world, where there are many instances of oppression and injustice.

Supporting social justice movements, speaking out against discriminatory government policies, or promoting the bravery and fortitude in the face of rights of marginalized communities can peril serve as an inspiration. He all fall under this category. Muslims can believed that simply despising evil uphold the moral principles of justice with one's heart was insufficient; one and fairness, which are essential to also needed to fight it with one's Islam, by standing up against evil and hands and tongue. This entails injustice.

Learning from the life of Sahabah!

“Hudhayfah al-Yaman” Article By – Yusuf Olia

denouncing wrongdoing and taking appropriate action to stop it, even if it Moreover, Hudhayfah was also is challenging or unpopular to do so. renowned for his simplicity and Muslims can take inspiration from humility. Despite his success, he Hudhayfah by speaking up against maintained his modest demeanor and injustice and oppression and never sought fame or money. The defending the rights of everyone, continual good deeds, even if they are few, are what Allah loves the most, he regardless of their background or once stated. Hudhayfah was wellbeliefs. known for leading a modest and Muslims need to be willing to take a uncomplicated life.

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

is especially pertinent in the modern world, where many Muslims are drawn toward materialism and consumerism.

Muslims should strive to live a simple and humble lifestyle that is following the teachings of Islam, rather than He put his attention on serving Allah concentrating on accumulating wealth and advancing the Islamic cause and luxury. This can assist them in rather than pursuing wealth or power. staying committed to their main When he was appointed governor of objective, which is to win Allah's favor Kufa and Ctesiphon, he didn’t come in and succeed in the Hereafter.

Learning from the life of Sahabah!

“Hudhayfah al-Yaman” Article By – Yusuf Olia

splendor and luxury like the Persian kings who came before him; instead, Muslims can also gain insight into the he rode a lowly donkey, eating a value of seeking knowledge through meager loaf of bread. Muslims should Hudhayfah’s life. Hudhayfah was a take inspiration from Hudhayfah in close friend and associate of the this regard by remaining modest, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) who was eschewing arrogance, and making an renowned for his erudition and insight. effort to carry out good deeds, no "The best of people is the one who matter how tiny or straightforward learns the Qur'an and teaches it," he once said. Hudhayfah actively pursued they may be. knowledge throughout his life and was This illustration of simplicity, humility renowned for his profound

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

misunderstanding about Islam in Learning from the life today's society. This entails a thorough study of the Qur'an and Islamic of Sahabah! teachings, interaction with those of “Hudhayfah al-Yaman” other faiths and backgrounds, and a Article By – Yusuf Olia search for reliable information and scholarly sources. By doing this, comprehension of the Qur'an and Muslims can make sure that they have Islamic teachings. He realized that to a thorough understanding of their faith apply the religion's teachings in his and can successfully dispel myths and daily life, he needed to have a misconceptions about it. thorough understanding of it. This lesson is vital in the modern world In conclusion, Hudhayfah ibn alwhen there is a great deal of Yaman's life teaches us the value of ignorance and false information. sincerity, courage, humility, and the Muslims can use this example today pursuit of knowledge, as well as the through learning about Islam, gaining necessity of standing up to evil and an understanding of it, and imparting injustice. Following these guidelines that information to others. will help Muslims live lives that are in line with the Islamic teachings and the Muslims must be dedicated to seeking Prophet Muhammad's example, and knowledge and understanding to they will also be able to improve their navigate the challenges presented by local communities and the world at the widespread misinformation and large.

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

Learning from the life of Sahabah!

Article By – Setayesh Pasoon

and were able to practice the faith to perfection.

The lives of Sahaba are full of stories and morals that reflect the teachings of Islam so we can endorse those teachings in our lives. Therefore, Sahaba comes from the word Suhba learning about their lives will improve meaning companionship and is used our knowledge of deen, and will to describe certain group of men and increase our connection to Allah women who accepted and believed in (ta’ala). The two particular lessons that the message of Islam in the early I have recently learned through my days. The Sahabas (companions) of studies from the lives of the Sahabas the Prophet were blessed to observe are: Being patient (saboor) at the time the practice of the Prophet directly of difficulties, and to be ready to and followed the true teachings of sacrifice to deen and to Allah’s Islam. The Prophet (peace be upon pleasure. It is a promise of Allah (ta’ala) him) said, “The best generation is my that “ Allah is with those who are generation and then those who follow patient”. There always will be them and those who follow them…”. difficulties and distress in some point The Sahabas used to hear the holy of our lives but we learn from the Quran directly from the mouth of the (companions) Sahabas lives that we Prophet, they collected Ahadith have to be patient and don’t let that (saying and actions of the Prophet) hardship make us weak.

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

Learning from the life of Sahabah!

Article By – Setayesh Pasoon

repeating the word `Ahad' (One), meaning `God is One.

Then, Abu Bakr bought him from his master and set him free and then he was appointed as the first Muezzin And certainly, We shall test you with (who says Athan at the time of daily something of fear, hunger, loss of prayers) of Islam. Any time that the wealth, lives and fruits, but give glad Prophet (pbuh) and the Sahabas faced tidings to the patient ones.” (Quran hardship, they struggled patiently, and 2:155). In the beginning of Islam, the they relied on Quran saying that “ Nasr Prophet of Allah and his followers ul allah-i- qaribun” meaning “ Allah’s were touched with hardship, harm, assistance is near” and they succeeded. hunger, and thirst for the sake of Allah Similarly, there is another story of a subhana. For instance, when Bilal Sahaba, Urwah Ibn Zubair, who had a Habashi, who was a slave at that time, problem with his foot. So, the doctors turned to Islam, he was badly decided that they had to cut his foot tortured. The koffar put a big stone on off. When the doctors cut it off, he his chest and put him under the didn’t say anything except these words: ‘O Allaah, for you are full praise. burning sun of Makkah.

Bilal resisted all the tortures most For if you have taken some, you have left some. And if you have tested, and bravely and responded just by

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

For example, when Muhammad (pbuh) decided to leave Makkah and moved to Learning from the life Medina, all his followers and the of Sahabah!

Sahabas, left their homes, families and Article By – Setayesh Pasoon wealth and migrated with him. It was easy for them to give up what was put through difficulty you have also important to them in the sake of Allah put in good condition. If you have (ta’ala) and Muhammad pbuh. For tested and tried and put through example, Abu Bakr Seddiq was one of difficulty you have also put good the richest men in Makkah and when health, good circumstances and good he accepted Islam, he used his wealth conditions.’ The Sahabas understood in the improvements of Islam. For that everything that was happening in example, at that time slavery was their lives was from Allah and common in Mecca and slaves who everyone will have moments of grief, turned to Islam, were persecuted and moments of sadness. But the tortured but Abu Bakr felt compassion difference is the believer is patient, for slaves, so he used to purchase them the believer believes in the decree of and then freed them. Similarly, when we go through the life of Ali ibne Abi Allaah, the believer.

Talib, who was the cousin of Prophet When we read the stories of the (pbuh) and accepted Islam when 10 Sahabas, we learn that they made a years was old, has many stories of selflot of sacrifices for the sake of Islam. sacrifices.

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

Learning from the life of Sahabah!

Article By – Setayesh Pasoon

companions are like the stars like, the guiding stars and amongst my companions, whoever you follow you will find guidance and they will take you to the truth and light.

Ali, For example, in many battles, The behavior and actions of the through self-denial and suffering Sahabas of the Prophet were witnessed severe wounds, did not leave the by the Prophet (pbuh) himself and Prophet alone. He made himself a approved by him as it is an accepted shield against the arrows and the principle that the Prophet (pbuh) is not shots that targeted the Prophet allowed to approve of something (pbuh). In critical and hazardous wrong. The lesson that I have learned moments, he would save the Prophet from the lives of the Sahabas so far, encouraged me to be patient at the (pbuh)'s life. time of difficulties as there is always At the end, we should always try to ease after hardship. Moreover, I read stories of Sahabas lives and take learned that for the sake of deen and inspiration from their lives and learn Allah (ta’ala) each one of us have little from them as those are source of sacrifices that we can make in our guidance for us. The Sahabas were current lifestyle so that we can make following the footsteps of the Prophet our Iman stronger and get closer to Allah (ta’ala). as the Prophet (pbuh) says that my

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

It's the key to achieving success, happiness, and realizing your dreams.

Strong character leads you to success, happiness, and accomplishing your dreams. But “why?” most people ask, Building a strong character is a goal "How does strong character affect you that many individuals aspire to and the others around you?" Then the achieve. It can be challenging to know most confusing question comes up: where to begin, but throughout How do you build it? This is a question history, people have been pondering people have been trying to answer for this question. The essential pillars of a centuries. The perfect way to succeed? strong character are good judgment, Strong character. Why? No one seems good character, and making good to know. That's because a strong choices. It involves being kind, character is built out of good judgment, humble, friendly, honorable, and good character, and good choices.

BUILDING STRONG CHARACTER Article By – Hania Hashmi

knowing how to navigate situations.

Remember that your decisions have a significant impact on those around you. Therefore, it's essential to consider them when making choices.

Building a strong character requires dedication and time, but the rewards are immeasurable.

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

BUILDING STRONG CHARACTER Article By – Hania Hashmi

between sound judgment and a poor one.

What's right for one person may not be the same for another, as it depends on individual morals and fears. The ability Good judgment is basically how you to make wise and informed judgments look at a situation, knowing whether is a hallmark of a strong character. It to immediately jump in or slowly plan. requires detailed consideration of Good character, having morals, being circumstances, vision or foresight, and humble and kind, friendly, and prioritizing the needs of others over honorable. Good choices—this is your own emotions. Good judgment where the majority of people fail. fosters features like selflessness and Making good choices, not just for compassion, which represent people of yourself but for everyone. Your strong character. choices impact not only you but everyone around you, so it is only fair Building a positive future for yourself to think of them when making requires having a good character. A decisions. This is what builds strong person with good character possesses character. traits such as loyalty, helpfulness,

ambition, bravery, determination, When dealing with bullying, it's intelligence, and compassion. These crucial to make the right call. Your traits comprise the foundation of a decision can make all the difference strong character and can make you a

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

constructing a favorable future for yourself. It's easy to have thoughts about what's right or wrong, but eventually, your decisions will resolve the path your life takes. Your choices finer person. However, it's important reflect your character and will be to understand that having only one of utilized to evaluate you by others. If these traits is not enough. For you want strong character, you would example, being fearless without have to make strong decisions even helping others is not beneficial. On when it's difficult, putting others the other hand, possessing before yourself.

BUILDING STRONG CHARACTER Article By – Hania Hashmi

intelligence without determination may lead to giving up early. Many Remember, actions speak louder than individuals may not realize that they words, so it's crucial to choose wisely. already possess these qualities that make up a strong character. By embracing these traits, you can stand out from others and develop a strong character. Without these essential traits, your character cannot be considered good or strong.

Making wise choices is critical for

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

There have been amazing people in the world, who have accomplished so much for everyone, yet they’ve no need to build or have a strong character. Having strong character is a Your choices hold the capability to remarkable thing, an awesome tool for shape your destiny, and it's up to you many, and essential for some.

BUILDING STRONG CHARACTER By – Hania Hashmi

to produce the right ones.

In all, the whole purpose of strong character isn’t just to have it, but what you use it for, and how you use it.

But at the end of the day, the one who’s better in the eyes of mankind is the one who uses their character for good, regardless of how it is.

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

He is also known as one of the famous people who embraced Islam to the public. Muhammad Ali wasn’t born as Muhammad Ali he was born as Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. Some may wonder Muhammad Ali is considered “ one of what inspired Muhammad Ali to the greatest fighters of all time”. He is become a Muslim?

Muhammad Ali A Biography By Ahmed Abdulghani (Grade 6)

known for his trash talk “ Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. The hands One day a man gave Ali a newspaper can’t hit what the eyes can’t see.” He that showed a white man beating black is known for his boxing ability. He is people forcing them to pray to Jesus. the type of guy who would be your This stuck with Clay for a long time and in 1964 Muhammad Ali stated the best friend. following “ Cassius Clay is a slave name; I don't want it, nor did I choose it And I don’t want it.” I am Muhammad Ali. It means beloved of God and I insist people use it when they are speaking to me.”

STORY/ARTICLE/POEM

He stops those whom, who's that?

That’s God Allah. He’s, my bodyguard.

Muhammad Ali He’s your bodyguard. He’s the A Biography By Supreme, The Wise.” Muhammad Ahmed Abdulghani (Grade 6) didn't feel ashamed to be Muslim. He and Malcom X were both Muslim and There are also articles that state that African American activists. He didn't Muhammad Ali and his wife got into a fight in a war because he was Muslim. big fight. Ali was saying things like I He faced consequences but he didn't am the greatest. His wife responded care! with, Muhammad Ali didn’t care whatsoever about what other people said. When an interviewer asked Ali who his bodyguard was. Ali without hesitation said “No, I have One bodyguard.… When He wishes to create a thing, He just orders it to be and it comes into existence, but this order does not convey the words which takes the tongue to form like our sound carries ears. He hears the secrets of those on the quiet thoughts.

SCIENCE

Muslim Inventors Series Abbas Ibn Farnas By – Bisma Imran 9th Grade Throughout history, humans have our desire to fly has ancient roots and always been captivated by the idea of has been a part of our collective flying. It's a dream that has spanned imagination for a long time. across cultures and religions, and even Muslims shared this fascination. One of the earliest attempts to fly was The belief was that when a person's made by Abbas Ibn Farnas, a Spanish soul reaches the highest level of Muslim. He jumped off the Great goodness, it could ascend above the Mosque of Cordoba using a parachute earth. he had designed. It was a daring feat, but it showcased the human drive to An interesting story comes from the take to the skies. writings of Al Firdawsi, who told a tale of King Kai Kawwas. This king was Years later, Ibn Farnas improved upon tempted to enter heaven on the backs his earlier attempts and created a hang of evil spirits, but the eagles carrying glider. However, his flight was shorthim eventually grew tired, leading to lived, as he crashed to the ground after a crash landing. This story shows how only ten minutes. It was during this

SCIENCE

Muslim Inventors Series Abbas Ibn Farnas By – Bisma Imran 9th Grade crash that he realized the importance our desire to fly has ancient roots and of a bird's tail for stability in flight. has been a part of our collective imagination for a long time.

Today, we've come a long way in the quest to conquer the skies. Modern Things to remember: airplanes are designed to land with Spanish Muslim Inventor Abbas Ibn their rear wheels first, a significant Farnas. Statue of Ibn Firnas outside advancement from the early Baghdad International Airport experiments in human flight. So, as you grow and explore the world, Abu al-Qasim Abbas ibn Firnas ibn remember that the dream of flight Wirdas al-Takurini, also known as Abbas has been with humanity for centuries, ibn Firnas was an Andalusi polymath: and it continues to evolve, just like an inventor, astronomer, physician, the airplanes that now soar high chemist, engineer, Andalusi musician, above the Earth. Who knows what and Arabic-language poet. He was exciting advancements the future reported to have experimented with a holds in our quest to fly like the birds? form of flight.

SCIENCE STEM Corner!

By – Muhammad Shawaiz Imran Exploring Catapults: A Fun Journey with Islamic Insights for Kids!

Hey there, young explorers! Have you ever wondered about the cool inventions from the past? Let's dive into the world of catapults—a contained sketches and explanations of fascinating invention that has a neat many inventions, including different connection with Islamic history. types of catapults. These incredible machines weren't just about war; they What's a Catapult? were also used in science and even for A catapult is an ancient machine used launching objects during celebrations! to launch objects through the air. It's like a big slingshot! People in the past The Islamic Golden Age was a time of used it to hurl stones, arrows, or other amazing discoveries and inventions, things at targets. But did you know and catapults were just one of the that the idea of the catapult goes way many cool things invented during this back in time? Yep, it's been around for time. centuries!

How Does a Catapult Work?

Islamic Contributions to Catapults: Imagine a seesaw or a lever. That's Did you know that many smart kind of how a catapult works! It uses inventors from the Islamic world tension, like when you pull back a played a big role in improving rubber band before letting it fly. The catapults? Back in history, during the tension in the catapult helps to launch Islamic Golden Age, scholars like Al- things far away.

Jazari and Al-Isfizari were like super inventors.

They designed and You might have seen some types of enhanced these cool machines, making catapults like the "Mangonel" or the them stronger and more precise.

"Trebuchet." They might look different, but they all work on the same basic Al-Jazari's 'Book of Knowledge of idea—using stored energy to fling stuff!

Ingenious Mechanical Devices'

SCIENCE STEM Corner!

By – Muhammad Shawaiz Imran Exploring Catapults: A Fun Journey with Islamic Insights for Kids!

Islamic Values and Catapults: As you craft your catapult, envision the ingenious minds of our Islamic ancestors who pioneered such Building Your Mini Catapult: innovations. The catapult, known as Want to have some hands-on fun? You "manjaniq" in Arabic, played a pivotal can create a mini-catapult at home role in various historical battles and using some simple materials like was revered for its strategic prowess. popsicle sticks (Big & small) , Binder clip, sauce cup, and small In Islamic history, the development of marshmallows or cotton balls as the catapult was not only for warfare projectiles. but also for advancements in science and engineering. Scholars like Al-Jazari What you will need: and Ibn Al-Haytham contributed Binder Clip, Popsicle Sticks (Big & significantly to the understanding of small), Sauce cup, Glue gun. mechanics and optics, which influenced catapult design and functionality.

The use of catapults in sieges and defensive strategies by Muslim inventors during the Islamic Golden Age showcases the blend of creativity, scientific knowledge, and determination, echoing the importance of innovation and perseverance in our lives today.

SCIENCE STEM Corner!

By – Muhammad Shawaiz Imran Exploring Catapults: A Fun Journey with Islamic Insights for Kids!

Let's make it: Step 1: Make the base using 4 sticks as shown

Step 2: Make the attachment for the binder clips as shown

Step 3: Make the supporting structure using the smaller sticks

Step 4: Connect the supporting structure and make it more sturdy

SCIENCE STEM Corner!

By – Muhammad Shawaiz Imran Exploring Catapults: A Fun Journey with Islamic Insights for Kids!

Step 5: Connect the throwing arm with the base

Step 6: Attach the lock bar to stop the throwing arm.

Step 7: Attach cup on the throwing arm and Your Catapult is ready.

So, young adventurers, next time you hear about a catapult, remember the awesome history behind it and how inventors from the Islamic world made incredible contributions to its development! Keep exploring and always remember to use your knowledge for the good of others!

Who knows, maybe you'll invent something amazing yourself one day!

HEALTH Eat Right!

By – Mushtaq Memon M.D. MCMC Medical Committee

Eating right and in moderation. That's right! In this day and age most of us are aware of common medical There are variety of reasons why some conditions such as obesity, high blood people have trouble losing weight. The pressure and diabetes. These medical most common cause is obesity. Obesity conditions can be delayed or even can be caused by physiological and prevented by eating right and in environmental factors such as moderation especially for people with excessive diet, decreased physical a family history of these conditions. activity and exercise.

Let's talk about obesity, which is a medical problem that increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, liver disease, sleep apnea, certain cancers, and other conditions.

A healthier diet, increased physical activity and other lifestyle changes can help a person lose weight. If you are concerned about your weight or weight related health problems, please ask your health care provider about obesity management.

HEALTH(Did you know?)

Ingredients to Avoid Part-1 By – Musthaq Memon, M.D.

These are some of the commonly found ingredients in beverages and candies and please be sure to read the labels on products for the calorie count and ingredients especially following: ➢ Mono di-glycerides: (source) if vegetarian than is okay to consume ➢ Carmine: obtained from the bug contains some pink pigment ( most commonly it has been put in beverages to enhance its color. ➢ Red 40: can cause hyperactivity in children, for more info please visit https://www.healthline.com/nutriti on/red-dye-40 ➢ Yellow five: irritability, restlessness, depression and also difficulty with sleeping.

CAREER

MCMC Tech Forum

Scrum Master, Product Owner Certification

It’s a good local community foum to New to Agile? Have a certification but connect with the professionals. don't have hands on experience? https://chat.whatsapp.com/EMBczNon https://chat.whatsapp.com/8YBHYem VygCGEnuGPyzVR NlGp7GQJ1JMRcYB You can start with the Agile Foundation class, OR take a Scrum Master, Product Owner certificatation class OR join the extended 2 months hands on program and workshop (cohort) for Scrum Master, Project Manager, Product Owner, Business Analyst, Coach or member of a Scrum Team. For questions you can always ping meWa.me/19084199392

ACTIVITIES Ecuador Visit – A dignified people!

By – Arshad Jamil

If you want to see a dignified people, go to On my return from the trip, I saw a Turkish Ecuador. That is what I observed in my short airlines cargo plane at the airport, and the May 21-26, 2023, trip to the country. Come taxi driver told me that it was there to carry early morning, and the Ecuadorean people away flowers, which I could infer from the are out to work. It is not a rich country, but I rows and rows of green houses, that I had did not see a beggar either in the city or any seen along the highways in the country. of the countryside, that I went. Everyone Flowers exports earn them about a Billion works. They know to stand on their feet, Dollars annually, and the total from and I did not find any body language of agriculture exports stands at about Five expecting any extra reward money from me Billion Dollars, for a small country of about in any of the dealings, despite them 18 million population. knowing me to be a tourist. I never felt being overcharged, be it a service or a On arrival, and exiting out of the Quito purchase. I got an excellent professional Airport terminal building, I was met by a taxi haircut, and the charge was same $4.25, as driver of the front of the row of waiting the locals. A decent lunch at a busy nice taxis, who whisked me straight to my hotel, restaurant was $2.75, same as for the locals. charging me the reasonable fare, I was served by a waitress at a restaurant, mentioned in the guides. Later on, he who was a university student, waiting with became my guide, taking me to amazing dignity and smile. I came early than the places, that I would have missed. opening hours of an historic cathedral, and I One of these was Cotopaxi, a vast national could see a number of women folks carrying park that is just breathtaking and amazing. bags on their backs, starting to spread their The name is derived from local “Neck of the small little displays to sell local handicraft, Moon.” It is lot more beautiful, lager and where I did not see any Chinese graceful than mount Fiji, glacier made souvenirs, as is the norm at tourist covered conical mountain, with an active destinations all over the world. stratovolcano.

ACTIVITIES Ecuador Visit – A dignified people!

By – Arshad Jamil

The vast volcanic ash covered national Park This area is natures lovers’ paradise. My first area starts at an Elevation of about 12,400 stop was an amazing butterfly’s garden, ft., from where the park guide took us in his where they have gathered all colors, four-wheeler to the end of paved, and then varieties and sizes of butterflies in a vast a gravel road to an elevation of netting enclosed space, with the nice about 15,000 ft. from where visitors go on a beautiful landscaped environment of exotic trek hike to 15,748 ft. elevation refuge base trees, flowering plants, cascading waterfalls of the mountain, and then the brave ones and an adjacent beautiful bamboo tree summit the peak of 19,347 ft. I came out of house to climb up to admire the the vehicle at the end of the road trip, surrounding forest’s tree tops. Seeing all all excited for the hike, when something this, I never knew that there are so many told me that I was not my complete normal vast varieties of beautiful butterflies in the self. That is when I realized the effect of world. elevation, which I had been warned in the guides and as such, I aborted the hike. Coming of that butterfly’s garden, my taxi Cotopaxi national park is vast and a preserve driver guide took me to a watershed small for natural fauna, vegetation, insects, and river clearing where I could watch crystal some wildlife. I could see wolf, wild horses, clear water flowing between boulders and deer, water birds around a natural lagoon. In rocks. While, savoring the area and a vast area, then have planted huge especially the environment, there came a numbers of a unique variety pine trees of group of young folks in two vans, loaded orange-colored trunks. The area is clean with huge tube rafters, which they laid out and pristine. My previous day’s adventure on the clearing riverbank to get it readied was to an Amazon tributary cloud forest for rafting. The tubes are huge, the size of area of Mindo Valley, two hours’ drive, and tractor tires, and several joined together a respite from Quito’s 9,000 ft thin air around a central tube. elevation to a 4,000 elevation.

ACTIVITIES

ACTIVITIES Ecuador Visit – A dignified people!

By – Arshad Jamil

The group members boarded the tubes earth, and the other foot in the Sothern three rafters, sitting on the tubes, holding sphere. tight the wrapped ropes with both hands.

Their guide, then pushed the tubes The capital Quito city is an architect’s dream rafters towards the flowing water, and off place for beautiful old architecture. They they disappeared in no time. I was told, that built huge beautiful majestic cathedrals and they were going on a Three Kilometer churches. One of those, the largest and rafting, down the fast-flowing water, which grandest in Americas, and one with gold. would also include few small waterfalls, too.

An entire section of old city center is There is just lot to see, lot to watch and lot UNESCO designated heritage site of old to soak in that area. There are plants and buildings. Inside courtyards in the older fauna. There is bird watching. There is the residential housing quarters. river with several waterfalls. The conclude my Mindo valley trip, I took an open cable Then there is beautiful architecture of car ride over treetops to watch below me newer houses, mostly white. and far beyond.

Similarly, we find several squares among A must do for bragging rights, is a visit to the block of buildings, similar to old Roman center of the earth dividing North and cities, and the newer large green public South, that equator line shown on world parks. The city has several museums, and atlas and marked here at a place near Quito, one major tourist attraction is a long along with a monument. It is a good tourist 18 minutes ride cable car, with stunning attraction, taking photos with the line, the views of mountains, and steaming volcanos. monument and the distant mountains in the background. Here, a person can stand Ecuador is culinary delight and food lovers’ with one foot in the Northern sphere of the haven. They have good tropical fruits, fruit

ACTIVITIES Ecuador Visit – A dignified people!

By – Arshad Jamil

fruit juices and vegetables. They have world tour, out of which they were Hundred plenty of shrimps, crab and fish. All, very days on a cruise. The wife had some affordable and plenty. While there, I Alzheimer, but the husband was taking good got used to plantain in most dishes. There is care of her. His parents were from Lebanon, very good trout. who had migrated to Australia, and he was born in Australia. On my return flight to For the visitors, there is plenty of local Miami, the couple on next seats were traditional souvenirs, handicrafts and Ecuadorean, going to Miami on a short clothes to take home, all made in Ecuador. vacation. They have been also to New York There are beautiful designs and patterns in city with their three sons, just last Lama wool for the traditional ‘Poncho’. September. This was especially on the desire There was an entire market of such shops of their youngest six years son, who near my hotel, and my shopping experience was madly fond of the Empire State has been good.

Building. It was his dream to soak the building to the fullest.

I had small talks with the local people I came in contact with. I found them to be very All in all, it was a wonderful experience! polite and respectful.

The Taxi driver, who came to pick me up on three different occasions, was punctual. He took good care of me and never short changed me. So were the hotel staff. In the hotel lounge, I met a Bolivian national engineer, who had worked on a river DAM project in Pakistan. There was this couple from Australia, who were out on a 6 months

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