Rotana America - The Journal | Demo Version

DEMO VERSION 2017

Explore Arab Inspired Architecture in America A place full of culture,

let’s explore Jordan and the magnificent beauty of Petra!

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Editor’s Note Greetings!

We welcome you to our demo version of Rotana America. Rotana America is a U.S based, bi-monthly magazine that caters to Arabs and non-Arabs alike dedicated to bringing awareness to numerous Arab-American achievements in relation to culture, academia and art. Our mission is to improve the image of Arab Americans across the United States of America. There is a need to humanize Arabs in the media and allow our achievements to stand out just as any other individual in the U.S. Throughout each edition, we cover topics on music and entertainment, explore touristic sites all around the world, and shed light on many Arab-American legends, entrepreneurs, scholars and artists who have made a meaningful impact across the nation and globally as a whole.

Published by: Rotana America Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief Nesreen Ballut Co-Founder Christina Ishak-Hodgeson

Another section we take pride in putting the spotlight on is “Coming to America.” In this section, we share the stories of immigrants and refugees who have emigrated in hopes for a better life. For our first edition, we share the story of a 32-year-old Syrian refugee who went from holding his first job in the U.S. as a night shift cashier to working in his field of IT.

Circulation Manager Essam Nassar Behind the Scenes Alex Grajeda, Graphic Designer Rula Alowaid, Photographer

The cover for our demo version boasts a gem in the country of Jordan and is listed as one of the “Seven Wonders of the World.” Petra, has a rich history that dates back to early civilization.

Contributing Writers Nick Thomas Tamara Halees Mary Hazboun Yasmina Blackburn Felicia Salameh

By offering continuous coverage on the latest contributions and achievements of Arab-Americans, we show how much we love this country, and are active in the endless growth in the nation.

We hope you enjoy our demo version as much as we enjoyed putting it together for you.

In Gratitude,

Add us on Social Media!

RotanaAmerica

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Nesreen Ballut Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief

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We Welcome

Your Feedback!

Your comments are warmly welcomed at RA Magazine.

Positive or negative, we are open to hearing it all. We take your feedback seriously as it is with your constructive criticism and support, that we are able to discuss crucial topics to please our readers.

Please write to: editor@rotanausa.com ~or~ Facebook: Rotana America Snapchat: Rotana America Instagram: America Rotana

Rotana Magazine reserves the right to edit if necessary.

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Your Feedback Here Which article did you enjoy the most?

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Table of

Contents 8

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Entertainment When East Meets West, we get a crowdpleasing fusion mix.

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Legendary Tales Jack Shaheen, an Arab American scholar, author and activist devoted his career to challenging venomous stereotypes of Arabs in film and television.

Arab Inspired Architecture Take a look at the Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Museum in Texas--and yes, believe it or not, this is no place of worship.

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Let’s Take A Trip!

A place full of culture, let’s explore Jordan and the magnificent beauty of Petra.

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Events Across The Nation Did you miss the Arab Conference at Harvard or the Tamer Hosny & Wafeek Habib Concert? Get the scoop of what’s happening nationwide right here!

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Dare To Live Out Loud It’s time we talk about bullying and depression in the Arba community.

Give Your Skin The Boot It Needs This Fall Dark lips, tumbling waves of hair, and smoked-out eyes, we are jumping into winter with style!

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Happy, Healthy & Whole Rabih Laz, a bodybuilder from Beirut, Lebanon gives us some tips and tricks to a hot bod.

Coming To America A 32-year-old Syrian Data Analyst migrates to America seeking refuge goes from accepting his first job in the U.S. as a night shift cashier at a convenience store, to working in IT.

Strut Your Stuff A new designer in the fashion industry, Emily Ziyad, makes a bold statement.

Pretty & Polished Dark lips, tumbling waves of hair, and smoked-out eyes, we are jumping into winter with style!

Interested in becoming a Contributing Writer? Email us today at editor@rotanausa.com Demo Version 2017

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East Meets West Renowned American music artists are partnering with Arab music artists all over the world to create music in both Arabic and English. The result, outstanding duets that have millions of views on YouTube!

Here are some show-stopping songs we’ve decided to highlight:

Ahmed Chawki Ft Pitbull - Habibi I Love You “Habibi I Love You,” a 2013 song

by Ahmed Chawki featuring rapper Pitbull was produced

by RedOne in both Arabic and English.

The single was filmed in Miami, Florida.

Akon and MelissaYalli Nasini Arab music artist, Melissa, is known for her collaborations with Akon, in the song “Yalli Naseeni.” The song came out in 2009.

Talk to Me, Maya Diab & Jason Derulo International superstar Jason Derulo and Lebanese music artist Maya Diab, two icons with two very different backgrounds came together to create one charttopping fusion song, “Talk to Me” in 2014.

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Entertaiment Tamer Hosny Ft Shaggy Smile The star of the generation, Tamer Hosny Along with Shaggy joined together in a duet song named “Smile.”

The music video, shot in New York City, was released in 2012 and had more than one million views in only 3 days on YouTube, and they were awarded a trending medal for the video.

Myriam Fares & Flo Rida Prominent Lebanese singer and ‘Queen of the Stage’ Myriam Fares joined with American rapper and superstar, Flo Rida, to create the duet “Wild Ones” in 2013.

GO TO PAGE 16 FOR PHOTOS FROM THE TAMER HOSNY & WAFEEK HABIB CONCERT IN CHICAGO!

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Arab Inspired Architecture

Islamic/Arab architecture is infused in structures within various countries ranging from Spain to India.

Geometric patterns, arabesque (floral) designs, and calligraphy, are signs that you are seeing the basics of Arab architecture.

These architectural traditions also made their way to America. Take a look at some of the renowned buildings across The United States that are influenced by Islamic and Arab art.

Madinah Temple, Chicago, Illinois

• Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, Illinois • Built in 1913, this building is known for its striking domes and Islamic detailing • Bordering the front entrance of what is now known as Bloomingdale’s Home Furnishing Store, the repeated words “There is no God but Allah” is written in traditional Arabic script • The Madinah Temple was originally utilized as a meeting place and convention center for the fraternal social club- The Ancient Arabic Order of Nobles of the Mystic Shrine

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Ripley’s Believe It or Not

Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, Grand Prairie, TX

• The architecture of a 41,000 squarefoot building was inspired by traditional Arabian palaces • The institution originally opened in 1963 as a museum which showcased western gunfights and historical figures such as Bonnie & Clyde, JFK, and Elvis Presley as well as a collection of firearms once owned by the outlaws and heroes of the Southwest • The new wax museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, contains approximately 100 wax figures crafted by the museum’s sculptor, Peter Carsillo

Alcazar Theater

Alcazar Theater, San Francisco, California

• Custom-made by the Shriners as the Islam Temple, Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of Mystic Shrine built in 1917 in San Francisco, California • Said to be “an adaption from Alhambra, a building that stands as the highest mark of Arabian art and civilization” • Previously utilized as a space for social and charitable organizations, then known to be a historic theater until 1984 • In 1992, undergoing a controversial rehabilitation after it was demolished due to a fire, it was reopened and now used as a lot but still stays true to the original Arabinspired architecture

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Alcazar Theater

University of Tampa

University of Tampa, Tampa, Florida • Located across from Tampa’s downtown, the University of Tampa originated as the Tampa Bay Hotel built by Florida railroad expert Henry Plant • It has thirteen silver minarets, each topped with a crescent moon representing a month on the Islamic lunar calendar, modeled in part on the Alhambra Place in Granada Spain • The population of Tampa is roughly 50% Arab/Muslim

Want to share more buildings with us? Let us know! editor@rotanausa.com Demo Version 2017

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Let’s Take A Trip!

Jordan

Petra • The word “Petra” is derived from the Greek word meaning “rock” • Petra is listed as one of the seven wonders of the world • Petra is located in the Kingdom of Jordan approximately 150 miles south of the capital (Amman) in the Wadi Araba desert • Petra was featured in the film Indiana Jones and the Last Crusader in 1989 • UNESCO titles the city of Petra as a World Heritage Site

King Abdallah Mosque • Built in 1989 as a memorial by the late King Hussein to his grandfather • The mosque can accommodate up to 10,000 worshipers within the mosque and in the courtyard • Located inside the mosque, you will find the Islamic Museum which treasures a collection of photographs and personal belongings of King Abdullah I

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Qala’at Ar-Rabad (Ajloun Castle) • Built on Mt. ‘Auf between 1184 and 1188 by Saladin’s generals and nephew

• Because of its hilltop position, Qala’at ar-Rabad was a popular beacon and pigeon post that allowed messages to be transmitted from Damascus to Cairo in just one day of time • In order to make it to the castle, one must walk uphill approximately 3 km from the town center • Although many climb to the top to see the beautiful views of the city, the original purpose of having the castle sit on top of a hill was a strategic tactic by the military to create a watch post to protect the trade routes in the 12th-15th centuries

Roman Theatre of Amman, Jordan

• Previously the ancient Roman city of Philadelphia • This theatre, previously between the reigns of Antonius Pius (138-161 AD) and Marcus Aurelius (161-180 AD), houses an audience of 6,000 • This historic landmark is still utilized for concerts and other events

Dead Sea

• Jordan borders the east side of the Dead Sea • It is called Dead Sea but is actually a salt water lake • The Dead Sea is the world’s deepest salt water lake to exist on the planet with it being over 1,000 feet deep • The salt concentration is 33.7%, making it one of the most salty lakes in the world • The Dead Sea is free of allergens, it homes various minerals, solar UV radiation is greatly reduced in its surroundings, and atmospheric pressure is high because of its low elevation making it beneficial for human health

Shopping in Jordan

• From large, renowned malls, to the traditional souq, Jordan is filled with opportunities to shop • You will find hand-woven rugs, hand-embroidered clothing, Bedouin jewelry, coffee pots, antiques and other artifacts that will give you a true experience of the items which the Jordanian culture cherishes

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Tamer Hosny &

Wafeek Habib LIVE

in the United States By: Nesreen Ballut

Photo by: Abbas Ramadan

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n November 10th, Tamer Hosny and Wafeek Habib boasted the stage at the Copernicus Center in Chicago.

One of the region’s top pop stars, Tamer Hosny, is known for teaming up with American singers for multiple show-stopping duets. Hosny is an Egyptian singer, songwriter, producer and director, as well as an actor. Since his debut album, Hob released in 2004, Hosny has not ceased to wow the crowd with his top hits and outstanding performances.

Unlike other music artists, Tamer Hosny has made it crucial in his career to collaborate and share the stage with western artists. Some of these artists include: Snoop Dogg, Akon, and Shaggy. Tamer has also become the first Arab star in history to cement his hands and feet at the TCL Chinese Theater in Hollywood. This historic ceremony that took place on August 9th, was followed by an exclusive performance and the premiere of his new movie, “Good Night.�

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“The Legend of the Century” a name he earned and was given to him by his devout fans has received 35+ awards and counting for his amazing productions, albums, and singles.

Rotana America- The Journal had the pleasure of covering the LIVE concert in Chicago—one of six cities nationwide part of the tour. The tour was a continuation of the 2016 tour for Tamer Hosny’s latest album Omry Ebtada. Joining Tamer Hosny on stage was well-known Syrian music artist Wafeek Habib recognized for his songs Habat Al Toot, Tlobni Aal Mot, and Layki Layki. To kick off the

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concert, DJ Bremo, known to DJ several concerts and parties across the states, took to the stage with his electrifying beats and mixes.

The sold-out concert with over 1,500 attendees, presented by D.I.B. Entertainment was led by none other than Mike Dib. Mike is known to always bring the finest performers from the Arab world and North Africa to the United States for over 27 years.

The US tour was organized by Stage on Fire and Masterpiece USA. When taking a looking around throughout the concert, you see people from different ethnic

backgrounds, colors, and those from various countries in the Arab world who all joined together for this fun-filled evening. One of the many attendees we spoke to at the concert is originally from Pakistan and came because he absolutely loves Tamer Hosny and said he wouldn’t miss it for the world. As flashes from the audience’s cameras and glow sticks lightened up the theater, it was clear that it was show time.

Next up for Tamer Hosny is his Euro Tour 2018 with it kicking off on February 9th in Malmö!

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Dare To Live Out Loud By: Nesreen Ballut

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n Sunday, November 19th, Rotana America- The Journal covered the 8th Annual International Fashion Show by Live out Loud Charity held at the Palmer House in Chicago. Sherrie Gearheart is the President/Founder of Live Out Loud Charity and the current Ms. Illinois America 2018. After losing her 19-year-old childhood friend to suicide, she knew she wanted to dedicate her efforts towards core character development, anti-bullying, and suicide prevention.

Throughout the event, you see individuals from all walks of life, different backgrounds, and races. In Gearhart’s opening speech, she tells the audience about a post that she saw written online and poses the question, “If you saw this, would you know how to respond?” The story was of a man who took to social media as a cry for help. He wrote, “FML, I am going to die tonight.” Now many of us may feel as if this person is being sarcastic, over-exaggerating, or just seeking attention, but do we really know? That man was contemplating suicide but with the help of Gearhart, he was able to receive the help he needed before it was too late.

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Sitting in the audience, hearing these stories, and observing what triggered each situation, allowed me to reflect on the ArabAmerican community across the US. ArabAmericans are exposed to discrimination and acculturative stress—two factors that have been associated with higher depression and suicide risk.

Arab-American students across the states have been tormented at schools for their culture and faith. This includes those who are not Muslim or Arab but may be categorized as one due to the language they speak, the garb they wear, or the color of their skin. In the recent years, depression and bullying have become more and more prevalent and there has been an increase of suicide thoughts/ attempts in the conservative and religious Arab communities. How many times have you heard the phrase, “Life is what you make it” or “This is all in your head” when someone is vocal about depression? In 2014, 19-year-old Assil Makki of Dearborn took her own life.

Although her story as well as other devastating stories in the Arab community aren’t spoken of often and there is no clear reason as to why it occurred, what we should zone in on is the fact that it happened. That, alone, should push the Arab-American communities to start speaking up instead of sweeping it under the rug. It is a domino effect – bullying may lead to depression, depression may lead to suicidal thoughts, suicidal thoughts may lead to attempts and by then, it could be too late.

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Live out Loud Charity is a worldwide charity that is expanding in eight countries and their models are individuals affected by suicide, depression, bullying, and low self-esteem. The 8th Annual International Fashion Show gave platform for designers in the United States and across the world an opportunity to showcase their talent and jaw-dropping designs. The 2017 International Designer of the Year Award went to Algerian-French designer Wafaa Lahlah who presented 4 pieces of her collection which were comprised of two stunning dresses and two suits. “I took part in this event due to the importance of taking preventative measures when it comes to bullying, depression, and suicide,” Lahlah said. “In the Arab world we don’t talk about it because it is a form of taboo but it is time we start addressing these issues.”

Let’s come together to take the proper steps to help those around us. Even if it isn’t suicide, those suffering from bullying and depression are still facing physical and emotional life-threatening issues.

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Coming to America How America Changed the Life of a Syrian Refugee By: Felicia Salameh

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t is said that “an education is an ornament in prosperity and a refuge in adversity.” This statement resonates with the millions of educated refugees, immigrants, and asylum seekers like Almothana Alhamoud who come to America for a better life. Alhamoud proudly serves his team as an IT help desk support technician for Cox and Kings Global Service, a company that processes visas for the Indian consulate in Chicago; however, finding a job in his field of study certainly did not come easy.

When Alhamoud first landed in Chicago three years ago, he was in survival mode. “Every day I was trying to learn something new about the American culture and lifestyle,” he said. He settled for the first job that would hire him, a night shift cashier at a convenience store.

This story mimics those of millions of other immigrants and refugees who hold degrees in fields like engineering, medicine, and computer science only to find themselves employed in lowskilled American jobs. But Almothana convinced himself that this was just a minor setback. Trials and tribulations were part of his everyday life in war-torn Syria, so adversity was a concept he was all too familiar with. Reminiscing on the conditions of his life back home during the war, Alhamoud recalls the difficulties he encountered.

“The simplest things in everyday life became an obstacle,” he said. “Getting to my work and having to pass checkpoints along the way became a challenge.” It wasn’t until he had to bear the unimaginable brutality of being beaten that Alhamoud decided to flee Damascus. It’s painful memories like these that would empower him to overcome any challenge-big or small-that interferes with his happiness and sense of security.

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Despite the language barrier, cultural barrier, learning that his Syrian degree in computer science was not recognized in the U.S, and having to settle for a low-skilled job, Alhamoud persevered with the conviction that the quality of his life would dramatically improve. When he came across Upwardly Global, a nonprofit organization that helps immigrants and refugees rebuild their careers, his journey made a pivotal point. After seven months of attending workshops and practicing his interviewing skills, Alhamoud received the job with Cox and Kings Global Service. He started saving for a master’s degree and is already visualizing his future dream of owning an IT solutions company.

For Alhamoud, education really has proven to be “an ornament in prosperity and a refuge in adversity.” In the midst of political oppression, culture change, and underemployment he continued to develop his skills with the knowledge that this would enable him to productively contribute to American society. He will always miss Syria and the connections he left behind, but he is hopeful that one day we will wake up to a world without war. He enthusiastically moves forward and has cultivated a spirit of gratitude that keeps him confident that tomorrow will always be better.

“Thank you America for giving me the chance to start a new life. Thank you for making me feel like this is my country and that I am welcome here. I hope I will be able to give back as much as this great country has given to me. God bless America.”

- Mothana Alhamoud

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2017 Arab American Book Awards Winners, judges, and literature fans gathered at the Arab American National Museum in Dearborn in October to celebrate the 2017 Arab American Book Awards.

The annual program, which began in 2006, honors books written by and about Arab 2017 Arab American Book Awards Americans in the fields of non-fiction, fiction, poetry, and children’s/young adult literature.

Winning authorsand present atfans the gathered ceremony this year included RabihMuseum Alameddine, Hayan Winners, judges, literature at the Arab American National in Dearborn in Charara, Michelle Chalfoun.

October toand celebrate the 2017 Arab American Book Awards.

Several of the authors spoke about the encouragement and support they have received The annual program, which began in 2006, honors books written by and about Arab Americans in the from part of the Arab American writing community.

Following the ceremony, fieldsbeing of non-fiction, fiction, poetry, and children’s/young adult literature.

Winning authors present at the attendees had the opportunity to purchase the winning books (found on the right) and ceremony this year included Rabih Alameddine, Hayan Charara, and Michelle Chalfoun. have them signed by the authors.

Several of the authors spoke about the encouragement and support they have received from being part of the Arab American writing community. Following the ceremony, attendees had the opportunity to purchase the winning books (found on the right) and have them signed by the authors.

PHOTOS TO GO HERE

HONORABLE MENTIONS

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Fiction Fiction 13 Ways of Looking at a Fat Girl 13 Ways of Looking at a Fat Girl Mona Awad Mona Awad Non-Fiction

Industrial Sexuality: Gender, Non-Fiction Urbanization, and Social Industrial Sexuality: Gender, Urbanization, and Transformation in Egypt Hanan Hammad Social Transformation in Egypt Hanan Hammad Poetry One Hundred Hungers

Poetry Lauren Camp One Hundred Hungers Hagar Poems Lauren Camp Mohja Kahf

Hagar Poems Children/Young Adult The Arab American Book Awards is a literary program created The Three Lucys Mohja Kahf to honor books written by and about Arab Americans and to Hayan Charara (author) Kahn (illustrator) Children/YoungSara Adult generate of Awards Arab American and writing.

The Arab awareness American Book is a literaryscholarship program created to honor books written by The Three Lucys Balcony on the Moon: Coming of For visit andmore aboutinformation Arab Americans andarabamericanmuseum.org. to generate awareness of Arab American scholarship and

writing. For more information visit arabamericanmuseum.org.

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Age in Palestine Hayan Charara (author) Ibtisam Barakat Sara Kahn (illustrator)

Balcony on the Moon: Coming of Age in Palestine Ibtisam Barakat

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Legendary Tales A Vital Critic on the Vilification of Arabs in Mass Media, Jack Shaheen By: Nesreen Ballut

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he internationally acclaimed Lebanese-American author and media critic, Dr. Jack George Shaheen, was a committed internationalist and a devoted humanist. His lectures and writings illustrated that damaging racial and ethnic stereotypes of Arabs, Asians, blacks, and others, injure innocent people. He defied crude caricatures, explained why they persist, and provided workable solutions to help shatter misconceptions.

Shaheen was a recipient of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor in 2013, among many other awards and was given over 1,000 lectures in nearly all 50 states. Dr. Shaheen wrote several books regarding stereotypes in the media, specifically about Arabs and Muslims—this includes his award winning book and DVD: Reel Bad Arabs, How Hollywood Vilifies a People. He appeared on national network programs such

as CNN, MSNBC, Nightline, Good Morning America, The Today Show and many more.

Back in the early 1970’s, he never allowed his children to watch television except Saturday morning. One Saturday morning, they saw a cartoon with a “bad Arab” being pounced by their favorite cartoon character, Popeye, and they called it to Shaheen’s attention. He asked his children to monitor Saturday morning cartoons and he bought a subscription to TV Guide to begin reviewing the description of the shows including comedies, dramas, and documentaries, to see what they focused on every week. In 1975, Dr. Shaheen wrote his first article called “The TV Arab” which took three years to get published.

Historically, it has always been the Arab or Muslim as the evil enemy. “It was really deeply embedded in our psyche prior to 9/11—everyone thinks that 9/11 altered the landscape, that’s not true,” Shaheen said in an interview with Nesreen Ballut in 2014. “What 9/11 did, brought in a new stereotype that the Arab-American, the Muslim American, and Islam, has the most threatening elements that we should be concerned about.”

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If we are not going to take steps to change the way media portrays Arabs, who do we expect will?

Oh I come from a land, from a faraway place, where the caravan camels roam. Where they cut off your ear if they don’t like your face, it’s barbaric, but hey, it’s home.

In Dr. Shaheen’s book, Reel Bad Arabs, he discussed what he believed to be one of the most racist movies Hollywood has ever released, a movie called Rules of Engagement. In this movie, American Marines are shown slaughtering women and children civilians in Yemen and they’re justifying killing them all. The movie was written by a politician in Virginia, James Webb.

Another movie that is discussed in his book which many of us have grown up to watch and enjoy is Disney’s Aladdin. Take a look at the original lyrics of the opening song to the movie: In the renowned children’s movie, Aladdin, almost all of the Arabs depicted in the film are these obese characters and guards without teeth. Aladdin and Jasmine are both anglicized and they don’t even have an Arab genie and in one point in the film, Aladdin tells the genie to call him “Al.” One of Shaheen’s notable victories came in 1993, when he helped persuade Disney to change some original song lyrics in the movie Aladdin, on the grounds that they were insensitive.

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Throughout the history of Dr. Jack Shaheen, he taught us all to take a closer look at the media and focus on stereotypes of all kinds that are threatening or harming to a people. In 1998, he and his wife established a scholarship that is given away every year to 3 or 4 recipients through the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) called: Jack G. Shaheen Mass Communications Scholarship Awards. The goal of this scholarship, established in 1998, is to honor young Arab American students who excel in media studies. Shaheen said, “People who have money should reach into their pockets and support young Arab scholars who are majoring in media—who want to make movies, who want to be on television, who want to be on radio.”

Dr. Shaheen (1935- 2017), left behind a collection of 4,000 artifacts concerning Arabs that is housed at New York University. This collection ranges from anything from toys and games to comic books, movies and editorial cartoons. All of the images, artifacts, and Dr. Shaheen’s notes are available for research to the public, students, and scholars.

People who have money should reach into their pockets and support young Arab scholars who are majoring in media—who want to make movies, who want to be on television, who want to be on radio.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

&

A HAPPY NEW YEAR

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Strut Your Stuff!

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Emily J,

a new name in the fashion industry, has just launched her innovative line of clothing “OVERDRESSED.” This contemporary fashion line makes a bold statement and is currently being sold at the mainstream retail clothing store, Akira!

Let’s take a look at how this unique line all started!

I wanted to allow my creativity and passion for fashion to peek beyond a simple look.

Let’s take a look at how this unique line all started!

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Emily, what inspired you to start your own fashion line?

I graduated from Columbia College with a focus in fashion business. I have worked every job in the field imaginable from marketing to styling, all the way to my true passion of visual merchandising.

I only imagined myself building as much experience as I could so that one day I would fulfill my dream of starting my own line.

I wanted to be able to take a casual statement that everyone owns and create something fun that you can wear in the up most creative way. I could have slowly made my way through and endless sea of experience in this competitive field in order to feel that I was progressing professionally, but I wanted to take my own path and create something that I could put my name on and truly be proud of.

I wanted to allow my creativity and passion for fashion to peek beyond a simple look.

Where did you get the idea of OVERDRESSED? I always knew I wanted to create something different. The irony of being in something as simple as a tee and still being “overdressed,” was something that was a representation of the person I am. OVERDRESSED is not just an apparel line, it is a fun way to live.

Why did you choose the name OVERDRESSED? Growing up, my parents always made sure we were put together perfectly. My mother always taught us, “It’s better to be overdressed,” and that is all I knew. If I could walk out in a ball gown every day, I would. I always loved fashion and always made sure my clothing was a way of selfexpression, to me, that was making sure that I had a visually appealing garment on. I remember once being put down for always dressing up until I realized this is who I am.

The name OVERDRESSED allowed me to take a vulnerable moment and create a success. Being overdressed is how I live, it’s who I am and now it’s my living dream.

What vision do you have for your company?

Success is something any entrepreneur would ever hope for, but I see OVERDRESSED beyond that. I hope that I could create a brand that makes its way through the people who love fashion the way I do. I want to connect with my clients and grow into a brand that becomes a statement in everyone’s closet.

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What items are currently part of your new line?

OVERDRESSED is primarily a T-Shirt based line but I recently created a sweatshirt as well as a beanie to accommodate our windy city weather.

The newest edition to OVERDRESSED will be the logo caps and t-shirt dresses.

Where do you see your company 5 years from now?

I would love to see OVERDRESSED in multiple stores breaking through your typical fast fashion brands. Everything is made here in the US with excellent quality and love. No matter where my company takes me, I want my brand to be known by everyone.

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mily J founded OVERDRESSED after discovering that her love and passion for fashion was awaiting her expectations. She graduated from Columbia College Chicago with a degree in Fine Arts and a focus in Fashion Business.

She always dreamt of starting her own fashion line and knew she wanted to showcase something that was a true representation of herself. The irony of being in a tee and being “overdressed” was a statement that stuck. Emily took that idea along with a strong appreciation for trends which motivated her to be a true entrepreneur.

With the support from her family and push from her husband…

OVERDRESSED was born.

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Pretty & Polished

Step Into Winter With These Top Makeup Tips!

By: Mary Hazboun

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his winter season brings the smoky-eye back in trend. You will see lots of matte or satin eyeshadows in taupe, grey and brown blended and blown out for a super-soft finish, teamed with black or brown kohl rimmed eyes to form a sultry, yetsoft eye look. To glamorize, add a touch of silver or gold sparkle on the lid and in the inner corners of the eyes. With a bold eye like this, the rest of the makeup can be kept minimal.

Matte nude lips are the best compliment for smoky eyes! A wide range of nude colors, from sandy beiges to warm peaches and pinks compliment this look. A lip liner blended into your nude lip is a must! It warms up the nude shades of lipsticks and help them blend better with your skin tone. Try liquid lipsticks, they dry matte and stay all day!

“The Instagram contour & highlight” trend is over and in its place a fresher approach to a more natural and radiant looking skin is in! Pick up a light-weight foundation and let your cheekbones glow with creamy, glossy highlighters, while keeping contouring minimal.

Don’t forget to have fun and experiment with different colors this winter for a sexy, unique look.

M

ary Hazboun is a Freelance Makeup Artist based in Chicago. She has over ten years of professional makeup experience in beauty trends, fashion show makeup, and special effects makeup. She offers services for all occasions as well as personalized makeup lessons Facebook Page: Makeup by Mary Hazboun

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Give Your Skin The Boost It Needs This Winter By: Tamara Halees

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t’s holiday season and that means the ‘oh so fun’ friends & family gatherings. However, it’s not complete without the one thing that brings us all together, the ‘oh so yummy’ comfort food! Let’s not forget, for those of you who live in a region where the winter season is what it’s defined by— the cold air takes a toll on our skin and bodies in several ways. Unfortunately, this means the possibilities of getting the flu, dry skin, crackly lips, skin irritation and joint pain are maximized.

Here are some great tips on using the foods of the season into remedies for a healthy body: Avocados Avocados have “good fat” to nourish your skin during the winter season. Heck, actually all year round! Besides its amazing taste in smoothies, salads and dip, this mighty green fruit provides Vitamin E and aids in strengthening skin cells. Skin inflammation as well as redness can be noticeably reduced when avocados are consumed on a weekly basis!

Beets Beets are high in Vitamin C, which is a known booster for our immune system. Along with Vitamin C, beets contain essential minerals like manganese and potassium. Both of these minerals are key to assist in maintaining healthy bones, kidneys, liver and good muscle function. It’s also good to note that beets have chemicals that boost the production of the anti-aging glutathione. In other words, it helps you live a longer healthy life!

Sweet Potatoes A common food on our dinner tables this season—sweet potatoes! This yummy starch is pretty powerful for our bodies especially during the winter. As an excellent source of Vitamin A and C, sweet potatoes contain essential nutrients to keep our skin hydrated. When consumed, the antioxidants in them converts into Vitamin E so that the layers of our skin are well nourished!

Fish / Wild Mushrooms / Pasture-raised Egg Yolk Yes, these are grouped for a reason! Fish, wild mushrooms, and pasture-raised egg yolk are extremely high in Vitamin D, naturally. Not only is this season cold, but it is also the one with the least amount of daylight. On average, we get 90% of Vitamin D from sun exposure alone! With that said, during the winter we have much lower levels of Vitamin D than usual. Rest assured, you can make it up by eating fish high in Vitamin D such as: salmon, tuna, sardines and herring. To get the best out of the nutrients when cooking fish, it is best to bake vs frying.

Why wild mushrooms? Mushrooms are the only plant source of Vitamin D! Wild mushrooms are grown in natural sunlight which is the source of this powerful vitamin.

However, keep in mind that commercially grown mushrooms are mainly grown in the dark, which gives no Vitamin D that the sunlight provides. Last but not least, egg yolks!

The yolk contains the essential fats and vitamins that our bodies need. Think of farm raised chickens, roaming under the sun. That is why these chicks provide the best eggs full of the D vitamin. Now think of conventionally grown eggs that are not marketed as high in vitamin D. Which one would you go for? Pasture-raised, of course.

Take a trip to your local grocery store and stock up on these amazing foods! Create your own dishes and post your recipe! We can always learn and enjoy new dinner ideas from our readers!

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amara Halees is a high-fashion makeup artist, motivational speaker, and confidence coach to youth and women with over 11 years of experience. She has traveled all over to perform professional makeup for hundreds of clients as well as aspiring actors and models. From weddings, photo shoots, sweet sixteen parties to makeovers for all occasions, she continues to create colorful memories for her clients.

Facebook Page: Makeup by Tamara Hal

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Happy, Healthy & Whole

To me, bodybuilding is a way I can showcase how far I have come from the humble beginnings of a mere 90lb frame.

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ow did you get involved in bodybuilding?

Bodybuilding is a sport that I was introduced to by my father and elder brother as they were champions in bodybuilding before me. I grew up knowing about it and wanting to work on professionally sculpting my own body.

What does bodybuilding mean to you?

Bodybuilding is not just about going to the gym and showing others how much I can squat and bench. To me, bodybuilding is a way I can showcase how far I have come from the humble beginnings of a mere 90lb frame.

Many may not know how much bodybuilding truly impacts the mind, body, and soul. It allows you to proportionally shape your body and stay fit while also decreasing the risk of coronary heart disease and straying away from the chances of high blood pressure, obesity, and high cholesterol. It also helps with arthritis and osteoporosis.

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2016

Overall Champion Classic Physique in Texas

2014

4th Place in Bodybuilding in Texas

2012

2nd place in Men’s Physique in Las Vegas

2012

of my routine are: the overhead press. Side raises, planks, leg raises, and crunches.

Who was your mentor/trainer and how did he/she help you?

I give most of the credit to my elder brother, Fadi Laz. He was there to support and train me while I was in Lebanon up until 2009. I then moved to the USA and met two professional body builders, John and Greg who assisted in taking my career to the next level.

Being an Arab-American bodybuilder has allowed me to show a side to Arabs that is not really portrayed in the media.

1st Place in Men’s Physique in Dallas, Texas

What does it mean to be an Arab-American bodybuilder?

Being an Arab-American bodybuilder has allowed me to show a side to Arabs that is not really portrayed in the media. We have goals and aspirations and for me, it happens to be bodybuilding and personal training.

Today, when asked “what motivates you,” he humbly answers “the fact that I motivate a lot of people.”

Also, mixing my Arab genes with my experience in America has been a unique experience that has allowed me to gain knowledge in various techniques that assist in taking me to the next level.

What obstacles have you faced earlier in your career?

Bodybuilding one of the most expensive sports that you can practice. With that being said, when I first started, the major obstacle was finances—especially when you need to prepare for contests, pay for flights, hotels, competition fees, food, supplements and much more.

Give us some fitness tips and tricks that you live by.

Moderation is key Minimum of five meals a day Meals should be three hours apart Drink LOTS of water A fruit of vegetable with every meal What are some of your favorite exercises to do?

By far, my favorite muscle group to work out is the upper body—specifically shoulders and abs.

The best muscle building exercises that are part

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abih Laz was born in Beirut, Lebanon in 1980.

Upon discovering his new passion while wrapping up high school, he completely changed his lifestyle and became extremely serious about weight training and dieting. His discipline and consistent demeanor resulted in rapid muscle grown.

Rabih was quickly noticed by public fitness magazines as well as mainstream media and his career skyrocketed with media outlets looking to set up interviews to talk to Mr. Laz. He made the decision to solely focus on this career in 2003 and thus attained his first personal training certification ‘ISSA’. Rabih was part of a renowned television show, Arab Gladiator, six years later and was given the nickname, Hyena.

Today, when asked “what motivates you,” he humbly answers “the fact that I motivate a lot of people.”

A river cuts though rock, not because of its power, but because of its persistence -Jim Watkins

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