July & August 2000 Guest List

Since the guestbook has been quiet lately, I just wanted to suggest everyone listen to Sting's latest CD, Brand New Day. He collaborated with an arabic singer, Cheb Mami, on the song "Desert Rose" and it sounds so good! Not many artists collaborate with arabic singers, but in this case, Sting did a great job. Let me know what you think about the song. :-)
Kristy Nasser <Krysty97@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Thursday, August 31, 2000 at 20:33:48 (PDT)

YES, I A M A BIG 28 TODAY, I JUST GOT BACK FROM VEGAS IT WAS PRETTY AWESOME DIDNT WANT TO COME BACK ANYWAY, I AM HAVING A PARTY THIS SATURDAY NIGHT AT THE CLUB AFTER ALABAMA WOOPS ON UCLA ROLL TIDE BABY!! FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO WENT TO RAMALLAH FOR THE PROJECT HOPE, I WOULD LIKE TO HEAR HOW IT WENT TAKE CARE GUYS!
BOULOS <SHUNNARAH@HOTMAIL.COM>
BIRMINGHAM, AL USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2000 at 15:42:29 (PDT)

MASS RALLY TO DEFEND THE RIGHT TO RETURN FOR PALESTINIAN REFUGEES WASHINGTON, D.C. [8/28/00] -- On 16 September 2000, thousands will march and rally in Washington, DC to demand implementation of the right of Palestinian refugees to return to the homes and lands from which they were expelled. The gathering is organized by The Palestine Right to Return Coalition, known by the Arabic name Al-Awda. The march will begin at Freedom Plaza at 11 AM, and proceed along Pennsylvania avenue. It will be followed by a rally in Lafayette Park where supporters will hear addresses by national and international figures. The march and rally coincide with the deadline set by Israeli and Palestine Authority negotiators for reaching a final status agreement, and also mark the date of the 1982 massacre of Palestinians at the Sabra and Shatila refugee camps in Israeli-occupied Beirut. The right of refugees to return to their homes is enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, International law, and in UN Resolution 194. Palestinian refugees represent the largest refugee population in the world. Some 800,000 Palestinians were forced from their homes in 1948, and many more forcibly displaced by Israel since that time. Today there are about 5 million dispossessed Palestinians, a number equivalent to the population of the state of Maryland. The suffering of refugees is magnified by Israel's continued denial of their legal and legitimate right to repatriation and restitution. Confirmed speakers include: Palestinian Legislative Council member Abdul Jawad Saleh, human rights lawyer Allegra Pacheco, human rights activist Dr. Eyad Sarraj, Palestinian-American author Fawaz Turki, poets Suheir Hammad and Lisa Suheir Majaj, film maker and poet Annemarie Kattan-Jacir, Barbara Lubin of the Middle East Children's Alliance, activist Rania Masri, journalist Lamis Andoni, media critic Ali Abunimah, Dr. Hala Maksoud President of the Arab-American Anti Discrimination Committee, Executive Director of American Muslims for Jerusalem Khalid Turaani, Executive Director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations Nihad Awad, and Al-Awda rally co-Chair Dr. Zahi Damuni. Invited also are internationally renowned musicians Marcel Khalife and Simon Shaheen. The Palestine Right to Return Coalition is a broad-based grassroots coalition sponsored and endorsed by over sixty Arab, Muslim and solidarity organizations as well as thousands of individuals. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO ARRANGE INTERVIEWS CONTACT: Dr. Mazin Qumsiyeh Al-Awda - Palestine Right To Return Coalition-USA Tel: 203-785-6317 Fax: (717)832-1123 email: prrc@mail.com Web: http://al-awda.org
Zahi Damuni, Ph.D. <Zahi@al-awda.org>
Palmyra, Pa USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2000 at 11:34:03 (PDT)

Miranda im glad u werent the only one that saw the nonmovement of the guestbook..lol HARAM cuz u know it needed a lil shuggah to spice it up!! well how is everyone?? much love to some of my fav. ppl- u know who u r. lets keep tihs guestbook alive... its GREEEAATTTT.. haha
Sophia Sahouri <CUZuNOthis@aol.com>
Great Falls, VA 22066 - Wednesday, August 30, 2000 at 11:16:25 (PDT)

HEYYYYY IS ANYONE HERE FROM RAMMALLAH????
SUSAN <DEVAS81@AOL.COM>
CLEVELAND, OH CHINA/HONGKONG - Wednesday, August 30, 2000 at 10:40:58 (PDT)

TO ALL RAMALLAH CHICAGO YOUNG ADULTS, THERE WILL BE A YOUNG ADULT ARABIC CLASS BEING OFFERED AT THE RAMALLAH CLUB "THE NADY" TO LEARN HOW TO READ AND WRITE ARABIC!!! FOR MORE INFO EMAILME ASAP!! WE NEED TO REGISTER WITHIN A WEEK!!!!
ANGIE GHANAYEM <SHATRA1017@AOL.COM>
CHICAGO, IL USA - Monday, August 28, 2000 at 18:33:44 (PDT)

The guestbook hasn't moved for a week.
Miranda =) <Sookar427@AOL.com>
FL USA - Monday, August 28, 2000 at 17:53:35 (PDT)

Hey Everybody... I haven't read the posts in a while but I like what I'm seeing....BUSH 2000 all the way!!!! While Nader is great and Buchanan rocks, any vote for them would not allow them to win, instead it would take away the crucial votes that Buch needs to win. Ideally, we can vote for others to be president, but the reality is, it's either Bush or Gore...and don't forget, it was Bush's father, our former President, that wanted to cut the amount of aid to Israel. Hopefully, like father like son!!!! Oh, and remember to vote...we're a force to be reckoned with! Peace out, Desert Diva
Desert Diva
USA - Monday, August 28, 2000 at 13:53:13 (PDT)

HI EVERYONE, I LIKE NEVER WROTE IN THE GUEST BOOK BEFORE AND I HAVE NO CLUE WHAT U PPL ALWAYS TALK ABOUT AND STUFF, BUT I WOULD JUST LIKE TO SAY HI AND STUFF, SO LIKE HI AND STUFF. OK BYE EVERYONE
SUSAN <devas81@aol.com>
cleveland, ohio USA - Monday, August 28, 2000 at 07:48:38 (PDT)

Help....i have 6 water-colored prints, Arab Woman of Bethlehem, Dabburieh, Ta'amreh, Safsaf, Lake Huleh, & Ramallah. i would like to find out about these prints. the link below will show you a picture of one with the artist signature. my e-mail address should be at the bottom also. If you could help, i would appreciate an email. i was searching & am not sure how i got to this wonderful web-site, anyway, i might not be able to find it again, so if you know about and/or can help me, please email me...dan the picture can be seen by this address: www.danbe.com/newpage7.htm
dan birin <birin@msn.com>
sun city west, az USA - Sunday, August 27, 2000 at 15:44:10 (PDT)

WHATS UP EVERYONE.?...I WOULD DO THE SURVIVOR CHALLENGE....I THINK IT WOULD BE COOL....WELL TALK TO YALL LATER.....BIG TYMER ALL DAY....P.S..DORK...
ISSA NICHOLAS ODEH <ALLDAY048@AOL.COM>
JVILLE, FL USA - Sunday, August 27, 2000 at 14:20:50 (PDT)

R.L. I would have definitely done the survivor show. I thought it was very neat to show people how others would live if they were actually in the wild and "deserted." I think it would actually open up a lot of peoples minds to what they are really like. I would love to do it! and it was really kind of hard to say who I thought was going to win. I would like to know how you feel about it. P.S. I would never do "big brother." (not as good as "survivor.")
Faten Iwais <AYOONY4@AOL.COM>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Thursday, August 24, 2000 at 21:38:31 (PDT)

I just want to say hi to everybody. I got back about a week and half ago from rammallah. I went with project hope, i just would like to say for people who are considering to go to rammallah with project hope, that they should go. I had the best time. It was so much fun, not only did i learn a lot, i also took back with me some great memories. shout outs to Janet, Dan, Nicole, Jenette,brenda, mona, and justin. If u would like more information on trip from me personally, just email me at Wataydoin@aol.com
Amjad Saba <Watayadoin@aol.com>
Livonia, MI USA - Thursday, August 24, 2000 at 21:25:57 (PDT)

I recently returned from the Federation trip to Ramallah with the Project Hope team and I just wanted to just let everyone know what a wonderful time I had. We served the Ramallah community through our volunteer activities, we met so many people and took in so many sights. The trip was a wonderful way to see where our families grew up, how our fellow Palestinians live and are treated and to see the sights of Palestine. I was glad that I went with Project Hope because I met some wonderful people who I will be friends with for a long time to come and I felt like I made a small contribution to the Ramallah community through our various, rewarding projects. I encourage anyone who have never visited Ramallah, wants to do more than sightsee and has a desire to see first hand how our fellow people live to go on a future Project Hope trip. I also want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who made this trip possible for us - the Federation (especially May Saba), Terry Ahwal and our coordinator in Ramallah Nijmeh Ganim. One last thing - for those of you who live in the DC area (VA & MD) and for those of you who will be in the area on Saturday, September 16th, I strongly encourage you to join the march in DC for the Palestinian Refugees right to return. It's just one more way we can make ourselves heard and to show everyone how much we care about what's happening to our fellow Palestinians.
Janet <jtawil@idfa.org>
VA USA - Thursday, August 24, 2000 at 09:51:30 (PDT)

Bush for president! Now, I would like to change the subject in this guestbook a little bit. What did everyone think of this whole Survivor series? Would you go for it? Who do you think should have won the money? Just curious....
R. L.
TX USA - Thursday, August 24, 2000 at 05:42:11 (PDT)

I've been reading the guestbook and I have to say that I'm quite glad to see everyone feeling the same way I do. You don't know how much your vote means to me =)....BUSH FOR PRESIDENT!!!
Basheer Zanayed <Gegolly@aol.com>
HOUSTON, TEXAS USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2000 at 20:33:28 (PDT)

This is for Jan Norman. You (like many americans living here) say that the world needs the US' money and I would like to counter that by saying that the countries who need help are the ones that were destroyed by OUR political and military actions. All countries in the world would be free politically and economically from the West if the West did not interfere in their internal sovereign issues. The West has exploited the entire world for centuries yet they say that these countries always ask for financial help. Lets think about why this is the case. How is the tiny and petty island of England so wealthy? We all know why. It is because they STOLE AND PLUNDERED from the rest of the world (i.e. the Arab World, India, China, and Africa). These are the facts. The civilizations that we in America call the "third world" were the richest and most educated people in the world prior to the Western renaissance and imperialism that destroyed them. How can a country that is a few hundred years old (US) tell a fellow country who is tens of thousands of years old (Iraq and the Arab World) what to do? This is not acceptable. These are the facts Ms. Jan Norman.....
J S
Washington, DC USA - Monday, August 21, 2000 at 08:35:07 (PDT)

Watching CNN tonight, many things were brought to my attention. The Russian submarine tradgedy is one that we all need to remember in our prayers. However, just as sad is the fact that a large percentage of Americans STILL neglect their right to vote. Cmon people!!! Our country was founded on Democracy, and the moment we take it for granted, is when we will lose that edge that makes this the best country in the world. So regardless of who you vote for (BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH BUSH), just please get out there and vote. Keep the dreams of our children alive and the fire under our political leaders for peace in the Middle East. Go Republican and GO GATORS!!!
Nick Mousa <Iceman0316@aol.com>
Jacksonville/Gainesville, FL USA - Sunday, August 20, 2000 at 22:33:00 (PDT)

Recent polls have indicated that Gore is now leading Bush, but only by 6 points. We can make a difference. Palestinian-Americans need to get our voices out there. Arab-Americans are the only group of people that are subject to open discrimination. We need to make a difference and let the politicians know that we are a strong group of tax paying, voting Americans and we intend to vote with our MINDS! Unfortunately, our choices are not the greatest, but we have to make due with what we have. GEORGE W. BUSH stands a real chance of winning this election and will most likely not distort the Palestinian image as will the Gore/Lieberman ticket. So go out and VOTE BUSH!!!
No Name Provided
USA - Saturday, August 19, 2000 at 15:57:52 (PDT)

Jan, i agree with you. God is the only answer to all our problems, and God does need our help, like in prayer, our country is too busy helping others but because they provide sources for us. but they do need to pay attention to the problems we have here in the states. GOD IS THE ANSWER! we MUST pray!
Faten Iwais <AYOONY4@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Saturday, August 19, 2000 at 11:55:18 (PDT)

hey hey, guess whos back!! lil tublah boy fuad! he just came from seeds of peace & loved it! i know some of u wanted to know what it was like, so u guys can email him at ARABMASTR1@aol.com. it seems like a great experience & thank god he didnt come back with a yahoodi g/f.. lol jk anywaysss, just wanted to drop that lil note & wish my cousin Jehann a HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! muahhhhhhhh
Sophia Sahouri <CUZuNOthis@aol.com>
Great Falls, VA - Saturday, August 19, 2000 at 10:22:03 (PDT)

Hey,Jan I thought it was good-bye forever, why did u come back to our FAMILY guest book.
FMD
CA, USA - Friday, August 18, 2000 at 23:34:56 (PDT)

Vote for BUSH =)
Basheer Zanayed <Gegolly@aol.com>
HOUSTON, TEXAS USA - Friday, August 18, 2000 at 22:02:42 (PDT)

16 Septmber 2000 Palestine Refugee Return March in Washington DC. Please visit our website at http://al-awda.org for further information.
Palestine Right to Return Coalition <awda@al-awda.org>
Hummelstown, Pa USA - Friday, August 18, 2000 at 18:34:46 (PDT)

There are Americans in poverty, homeless, working poor, without health care, without dental care, without education, without living in safe neighborhoods, dependent on drugs, dependent on alcohol, in danger, in retreat, in need of safety, in need of help, children in foster care, children in trouble. Mind telling me why the United States is ALWAYS expected to go and take care of all the other countries in the world all the time? Don't we have enough of our citizens to care for FIRST? Instead of criticizing our government for what they don't do perhaps be grateful for all you are capable of doing, because you are in this country. We can not be expected to use all our monies for debt and resources for broke and corruption to take care of all the peoples of the world in trouble. If you want an answer to that prayer you need to turn to God. Spiritual justice not political!
JAN NORMAN
germantown, md USA - Friday, August 18, 2000 at 13:18:07 (PDT)

Ellen, its really kind of hard to decide on who the blacks will vote for, even though you do have a point about their population becoming Muslim. but then again the majority of blacks are democrats, so i guess we'll have to see when the polls come out. and about Bush's comment about Jerusalem becoming the capital. i also agree with you on that. and we all know that politicians are all about WORDS. its seems like a close race you guys! cant wait to see the outcome. BUSH, all the way!
Faten Iwais <AYOONY4@AOL.COM>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Friday, August 18, 2000 at 12:04:10 (PDT)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME..! =) *HEHE* HELLO, HOPE EVERYONE'S DOING JUST AS WONDERFUL AS I AM.. =) JUST WANT TO WISH THE BEST OF LUCK TO EVERYONE GOING BACK TO SCHOOL, AND EXTRA SPECIAL LUCK TO ALL THE NEW FRESHMAN STARTING COLLEGE THIS MONTH.. *WELCOME TO THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE* ! =) LOVE ALL YA'LL. - PRINCESS ME !
Jehann Zayed <PrincessJehann@AOL.COM>
Houston, TX USA - Friday, August 18, 2000 at 00:12:39 (PDT)

Well, it sure was interesting hearing all of your views on Nader. My vote is still with Bush also. I believe that the comment that Bush made about ensuring Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, was just a political statement to get the Jewish votes. Next debate topic, do you think that Leiberman will get the black votes for Gore? I personally dont think so because the Jews have always put down the black population, and the black population is embracing Islam, and have always seemed to side with the Arabs. Two peoples persecuted i guess?
ELLEN
USA - Thursday, August 17, 2000 at 19:26:35 (PDT)

BOULOS MY MAN..YOU ARE RIGHT.....ROLL TIDE.....BUT LETS WAIT AND SEE WHAT HAPPENS.....ANYWAY....BUSH FOR PRESIDENT...TALK TO YALL SOON....THE REAL DEAL BIG TYMER....ALLDAY
ISSA NICHOLAS ODEH <ALLDAY048@AOL.COM>
JVILLE, FL USA - Thursday, August 17, 2000 at 11:15:51 (PDT)

ROLLLLLLLLL TIDE, ROLLLL, ALABAMA IS GOING TO KICK BUT THIS YEAR THIS IS A MESSAGE FOR YOU GATOR FANS, ALSO AGAIN ANYONE WANTS TO GO WITH US TO LAS VEGAS FOR MY 28TH BIRHTDAY THERE ARE 5 OF US GOING THE MORE THE BETTER GREAT TIME TAKE IT IS GUYS SEE YA!!
BOULOS SHUNNARAH <BOULOS@WWISP.COM>
BIRMINGHAM, AL USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2000 at 15:30:20 (PDT)

WELL MY BIRTHDAY IS AUGUST 31 I AM HEADING TO LAS VEGAS FOR 3DAYS IT IS GOING 5 OF US GOING , I WILL BE A BIG 28 VIVA LAS VEGAS BOO IS COMING TO TOWN ANYWAY ONE WANT WITH US, IT IS GOING TO BE AWESOME ALSO FOR ALL YOU FLORIDA GATORS FANS, THIS YEAR IS ROOOOLLLLLLLL TIDE BABY, ALABAMA IS AWESOME!! TAKE CARE !! SEE YA
BOULOS SHUNNARAH <BOULOS@WWISP.COM>
BIRMINGHAM, AL USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2000 at 15:25:02 (PDT)

GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH GEORGE W. BUSH
Jamil Farhat <Tapmytummy@aol.com>
Jacksonville, Florida USA - Tuesday, August 15, 2000 at 18:13:44 (PDT)

ellen I WISH THAT EVERYONE WOULD THINK LIKE YOU AND I. I BELIVE THAT NADER WOULD HELP US (ARABS) OUT ALOT MY VOTE IS FOR HIM ALL THE WAY. I WAS NOT GOING TO VOTE TILL I FOUND OUT THAT HE IS RUNNING. I BELIVE THAT ALL ARABS SHOULD VOTE FOR NADER NO MATTER WHAT THE ONLY WAY FOR US TO PUT OUR NAME BACK ON THE GOOD SIDE OF EVERYONES TOUNGE IS TO PUT AN ARAB IN CHARGE LOVE TO ALL
mohanad <mfiwais >
jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, August 15, 2000 at 17:46:30 (PDT)

Sam, everything you say is so true. I have visted your website in the past and find it wonderful and very educational. I have to say you have one of the kindest minds that God has created. God bless you!!!!
SS
CA USA - Tuesday, August 15, 2000 at 00:27:59 (PDT)

First, let me say hello to everyone. Second, this is my first time visiting the Guest Book and while reading all of your comments... I had noticed that someone with the same exact screen name as mine sent "shoutouts" to some Cleveland people on the 28th of July. Well, I just wanted to make clear that that wasn't me. Plus, Im really not one to say the word "shoutouts". =) Now that that's said, I hope everyone is doing wonderfully. Take care =)
Lisa <Qtpy1980>
Chicago, IL USA - Monday, August 14, 2000 at 13:29:49 (PDT)

BUCHANAN FOR PRESIDENT 2000!!!! Every Arab living in America should vote for Patrick Buchanan. Without a doubt, he is the most qualified, the most educated, and the most anti-Israeli president this country will ever have. A lot of people say he is an anti-semite, however if you look at the facts, everything he has said is absolutely true. He said that "our US congress is Israeli-occupied territory". It is also pretty obvious that any public figure who is against the Jews will be thrown aside, however it seems to be backfiring in the case of Buchanan. He is very courageous and he stands up for whats right and just in this country...
J S
Washington, DC USA - Monday, August 14, 2000 at 07:45:47 (PDT)

As palestinians, our greatest threat is the zionist movement. However, we teach our children to hate our own people. Palestinians are Palestinians, regardless of which city they are from or their religious backgrounds. We will never overcome our current situation because we are divided and because of this, we will always be conquered. The Jews have only succeeded because of their solidarity, irrespective of national origin or race. However, Palestinian share the same language, culture and heritage and cannot seem to accept one another. Why are we so exclusionary, why do we perpetuate the cycle of discrimination which we too are victims of. Perhaps we reject these affiliations because of the unpopular images which plague Arabs in America,s society. If this is the case, remember that these images were created by the Zionist dominated media which occupies our people. They occupy us in Palestine and our minds in America. Why are we taught to hate other Arabs??
Sam
- Monday, August 14, 2000 at 00:18:31 (PDT)

I would just like to say that JS is right!! iraq is not a bad country. Hussien is just a bad leader!! he does not represent his people. his people are poor, and helpless. they're being killed by him. i am a palestinian, and i am very proud of it! i wanna say, that we ARE puppets. the americans dont want to help!! they are "helping" for their own reasons, for their own good. they can kil saddam and his son very easily. but they dont want to. becuz a GOOD leader might arise, and the kuwaitis will no need them anymore. so the kuwaitis will be able be able to stop giving them oil. alaska cannot cover all america neeed for oil. look wut happened in the seventies, when kuwait stiopped giving them oil for a while. us arabs should stick together and stop kissing the americans a...!! arabs are arabs wether they like it or not!! LONG LIVE ARABIA!!
SH
- Sunday, August 13, 2000 at 16:27:48 (PDT)

I THIK SARA FROM VIRGINIA I MEAN SAN FRAN IS A HYPOCRYT, SHE KNOWS WHO SHE IS AND SHE IS A HATER, SHE GOT PLAYED AND NOW SHE IS SEEING THE AFTERMATH, OF WHAT ONE ARAB GUY CAN DO FOR HER PRIDE, TO BAD SOPHIA LATER
JAMIL
USA - Sunday, August 13, 2000 at 15:49:12 (PDT)

If Lieberman is elected into office, this will be the end of Arabs everywhere. He has admitted that he is Pro-Israel. As much as I would love to see an Arab in the oval office (Ralph Nader), this race does not have him even close in the polls. It's definately between Bush and Gore, or should I say between Bush and Lieberman. I don't have a problem with Lieberman because he's Yahoodi, I have a problem with him because he is very Anti-Arab. Let's all stick together and vote for Bush!!!!
Bush for Pres
USA - Sunday, August 13, 2000 at 08:16:41 (PDT)

JUST I WANT TO SAY HI
MOHAMMED <LEBLADPAL@AOL.COM>
RALEIGH, NC USA - Saturday, August 12, 2000 at 19:30:45 (PDT)

WHILE EVERYONE IS BRINGING UP THE ISSUE ON WHO WE SHOULD VOTE FOR PRESIDENT, I AM STRAIGHT UP REPUBLICAN SO PROBABLY BUSH. MY MOM IS THE PRES. OF THE REPUBLICANS WOMEN CLUB SO I KNOW SHE IS REPRESENTING A GOOD CANDITATE :) AS FOR RALPH NADER, HE IS MY UNCLES COUSIN- VERY GOOD MAN- & HAS BEEN VERY ACTIVE IN HELPING THE ARAB COMMUNITY & ANY DISCRIMINATORY ACTS AGAINST PEOPLE. I HAVE A LOT OF GREAT INFO ABOUT HIM IF ANYONE WANTS TO KNOW, JUST EMAIL ME OR POST A COMMENT. ALLAH MA'AK EVERYONE!
Sophia Sahouri <CUZuNOthis@aol.com>
Great Falls, VA - Saturday, August 12, 2000 at 13:46:33 (PDT)

Ellen, you have such a good point about us voting for Nader. my mom is voting for him. and if we could all stick together and vote as one for Nader i believe it would make a strong point that we would like to see a change. i am personally voting for Bush. that was my decision from day one. i am a republican, so thus i vote republican. but if i was guaranteed that ALL arab are voting for Nader than so will i. but the fact is, is that the race is between Bush and Gore, and i will be damned if my vote will be wasted and not go towards a good use. i hope you know what i mean. let me know what you think.
Faten Iwais <AYOONY4@AOL.COM>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Saturday, August 12, 2000 at 11:11:29 (PDT)

Gore may be in over his head with a Jewish running mate. And everyone seems to be doubting his ability to win this election. Well, I am all for George "Dubya" Bush (LOL) but it seems that the majority of America is already being dominated with Jews in office...I think this tactic might put him ahead. I hate to be pessimistic about the situation, but has anyone looked at the government lately?? It's ISRAEL, only relocated in America!!! =( By the way, with Gore having a Leiberman (sp?) as his VP, he has won the majority of the black vote. Strike 1
Miranda
Jax, Fl USA - Saturday, August 12, 2000 at 08:45:48 (PDT)

Ellen...Ralph Nader for president? Are you serious? Nader is the biggest left wing radical ever. He is horrible. Just because he is arab (lebanese) doesnt make him alright. Anyone that knows anything about American politics knows that Nader and his green party wierdos will not win anything. G Dubya for president Charlton Heston for Sec of Defense lol GO NRA and the Second Amendment
Mike <Moose1128@aol.com>
Alachua County, FL USA - Friday, August 11, 2000 at 20:53:02 (PDT)

HELLO EVERYONE
MOHANAD <MFIWAIS@AOL.COM>
MY TOWN, FL THIS ONE - Friday, August 11, 2000 at 15:43:34 (PDT)

Marhaba and hello to all of the Arab people living in America, Canada, Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East! We are all over the place, especially in Berlin, Germany (the largest Palestinian community outside of the Middle East). We Arabs are very successful and doing very well everywhere in the world except in the Middle East (lack of unity). Lets work towards eventual economic, social, and military power!
J S
Washington, DC USA - Friday, August 11, 2000 at 08:47:57 (PDT)

funny how the cleveland boys give eachother their own shout out.. no name provided... u guys sound cool now...hahahaha
Sarah <FYI@hotmail.com>
Friso , CA USA - Friday, August 11, 2000 at 07:38:21 (PDT)

I cant believe gore would expect to win with a yahoodi vp. I would like to hear how everyone feels about ralph nader for president. He is arabic, what if all the arab voted for him? I had always planned on voting for bush, but what do all of you think about nader? An Arab for President?
ellen
USA - Thursday, August 10, 2000 at 21:20:57 (PDT)

Yousef, My (long lost) loving beautiful cousin ALL the way in Ramallah, 2 words for you. !!RAWK ON!! Your missed by all your family in jacksonville. Can't wait to see you during Christmas at Auntie Mary's house!... And to all my family, nation and world wide...I miss you all. LOVE *Sookar*
Miranda Bateh <Shuggah427@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FLA USA - Wednesday, August 09, 2000 at 17:04:08 (PDT)

I just wanted to say hi.
Robzilla <Robzilla933@aol.com>
San Diego, Ca USA - Wednesday, August 09, 2000 at 14:40:58 (PDT)

First Id just like to pledge my support to George W. Bush and the Republican Party. I would be in the wrong to say that it is because "I dont like Jewish people", seeing that one of my good friends is in fact Jewish. However if we ever hope of having our own land in the Mid-East one day, and escape Jewish control, we need to keep things neutral and professional, and those are two things that Al Gore and his campaign severely lack, especially with the nomination of Lieberman as hs running mate. George W. has not only the professionalism, but the true American values of hard work and dedication..not just the desire to look good in front of the media. Thus, in my opinion, he will do all he can to benefit us, the Palestinian People. Secondly, Id just like to give a shoutout to all my crew in Jacksonville..Summer semester is over boys!! Daddy is coming home!!----'Preciate yall's time.
Nick
University of Florida, USA - Wednesday, August 09, 2000 at 12:39:33 (PDT)

HELLO ALL....WELL EVERYONE IS RIGHT...IT WOULD BE A BIG DISASTER IF A JEW WAS ELECTED TO THE VICE PRESIDENT POSITION...BUT AL GORE KNOWS HE IS NOT GOING TO WIN....I HOPE NOT.....SENATOR JOSEPH LIEBERMAN KNOWS HIMSELF THAT HIS RUNNING MATE WILL NOT WIN...ONE REASON IS THAT HE IS STILL IN THE SENATE RACE FOR THE STATE OF CONN.....HES BASICALLY SAYING "HEY AL IM STILL GONNA TRY AND KEEP MY DAY JOB JUSTIN CASE".....LOL......THIS IS THE FACTS BUB.....AND MOOSE..IT WAS TOO FUNNY WHEN YOU SAID BUSH'S FULL NAME......GEORGE DUBYA BUSH.......FOR PRES..........LATER YALL......BIG TYMER.....ISSA NICHOLAS
ISSA NICHOLAS <ALLDAY048@AOL.COM>
JVILLE, FL USA - Wednesday, August 09, 2000 at 12:37:26 (PDT)

The first meeting of the Ramallah Young Adults Association of Houston,Tx. will be held on Sunday, August 13,2000 at 6:00 pm in the St. George Churh Hall. This meeting is held for the young adults 18 yrs. and older. Hope to see you there E-mail us if you have any questions. Thanks!
Suher & Lena <SuherB@hotmail.com>
Houston, Tx USA - Tuesday, August 08, 2000 at 21:54:05 (PDT)

WOW! Much love to all of you jaxs arabs....you are overtaking the guestbook but that is fine...we all have opinions. I do have to say that you should be proud that your clubhouse is actually BIG. Ours is honestly 1/3 of your parking lot. But we still like ours here in Michigan. To all my family and friends...i miss you all and can't wait to see you soon. If anyone gets mad at my comments...just email me.
Nadia <Nads109@aol.com>
Livonia, MI USA - Tuesday, August 08, 2000 at 20:54:42 (PDT)

Hello Guestbook, Can we all please vote for George Bush. I don't think we'll ever get peace if Al Gore gets voted in. What's he doing getting a Yahoodi V.P running mate....................Jimmy Farhat
Jamil Farhat <Tapmytummy@aol.com>
Jacksonville, Fl USA - Tuesday, August 08, 2000 at 16:13:19 (PDT)

Fellow American (arabs). Please tell me that im not the only one that is outraged at the dern democrats picking a JEW yankee as their vp canidate. BUSH is going to win , no doubt. HE HAD BETTER WIN, b/c if a JEW gets into office, its going to be "game over, thanks for coming out" for the arab in this country. All his JEW cronies and connections are going to come into play, along with all the liberal democrates, and this country is going to be weaker for it. PLEASE CAST YOUR VOTE IN NOV FOR THE REPUBLICAN PARTY AND GEORGE DUBYA BUSH. Keep America strong. 'preciate it
Mike <Moose1128@aol.com>
Alachua County, Fl USA - Tuesday, August 08, 2000 at 14:53:19 (PDT)

'ello, Almost forgot to add I am always looking for resources to overcome hatred ie music,movies, art etc. One movie I just saw and LOVED is "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" with Spencer Tracy, Sidney Poiter, and Katherine Hepburn. A real classic.
JAN NORMAN
goimantown, md USA - Monday, August 07, 2000 at 18:21:13 (PDT)

Thanks ever so much for mentioning info on "Seeds of Peace" to all who have. I am working daily to overcome what could easily become prejudice against the Arab people. This is difficult to say but it is true. I could easily base this prejudice on just one family I have known. But,luckily for me I hate prejudice and work at overcoming this. I dare think that God wants his children to be hate-filled.Finally, through much prayer and thinking I have decided the actions of one family cannot represent Arabs as a whole. Lucky for me since turning over my dislike of the actions of this one family I have been blessed a thousand times over. I have learned some Arabic,did not abandon my acquired taste for middle eastern food and hence learned to cook it for myself!!,and have tried to learn more of the culture including Ramallah. People have such potential in the world to waste it on gossip,hatred,and violence. How sad. Finally, through the prayer to God I have come to know both Palestinian and Jewish people who work for the good of their own people and for the peace in the middle east. I have come to know people who try to bring the children of both sides of the violence together. I won't pretend to know that I understand what it is like to be confined to Palestinian settlement. Fortunately, I do live in the USA where I don't have the violence they suffer over there. Our violence,is even more stupid--over clothes, drugs, nothing such as freedom just general stupidity here. However, I am willing to say that without an open mind/heart and prayer I could very easily fall trap to hating a whole peoples based on one really CRUEL family. Luckily, thank Allah, I am blessed to write, create art, work towards Peace for Palestinian and Jewish children. It is NOT a serene process. But, our planet is not in its infancy either we have the potential to work towards all that is good. So, thank-you for mentioning SEEDS OF PEACE!!!!God Bless all of you. Peace and for all you concert fanatics. ROCK ON!!!!
JAN NORMAN
Germantown, MD USA - Monday, August 07, 2000 at 18:12:00 (PDT)

HELLO EVERYONE....WILL "NO NAME PROVIDED" & "FASHION POLICE" & ALL UNKNOWN NAMES PLEASE START STATING YOUR NAMES.IF NOT PLEASE DO NOT TALK IN THIS BOOK...ITS GETTING OLD...OK LETS START ROUND TWO.....IN A GOOD WAY.READY?...WELL HOPE EVERYONE CAN STOP TALKING CRAP UNDER FAKE NICKNAMES....JAX PEOPLE ARE THE BEST....FOR ALL YALL DISBELIEVERS......BUSH FOR PRES....ISSA NICHOLAS
ISSA NICHOLAS <ALLDAY048@AOL.COM>
JVILLE , FL USA - Monday, August 07, 2000 at 17:51:31 (PDT)

Ok I agree that this guestbook is getting out of hand. Everyone has there comments and it seems like no one likes them. This guestbook is for people to get along and to meet new people. We are all family here. Talk about good stuff, like the conventions, or what's going on in your city. Don't fight with people about stupid stuff like clothes or how a person spells. We are not in school so it should not matter if someone makes a mistake. We are one big HAPPY RAMALLAH FAMILY, and this guestbook should not change it. Much love!!!!!!!!!!!!
Aham <aham529@aol.com>
Detroit, MI USA - Monday, August 07, 2000 at 17:09:08 (PDT)

Hey all you peoples......I just found this site, thanxs to a special friend in Cleveland. I think this site is a great idea, not only for all of us to keep ourselves updated, but a way of showing that Cleveland people are the coolest. I have to admit this past convention was the bomb, and I hope that cisco is just as fun.. I would like to also say whats up all the people that had the privellage to chill w/ me at the grovsnoer hotel.(pooliside peeps), Dar Eadeh, and Dar Harb(WAR) lol hehe...you guys know who yalll are, take care people and see yall sooon inshalla!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!and remember"pick a flower, not a fight"
No Name Provided
San Jose, CA USA - Monday, August 07, 2000 at 17:07:15 (PDT)

Obviously the AFRP does not want "distasteful" entries in the guestbook. So I suggest that the webmaster should be more selective in what entries get posted in the guestbook. It's a shame to have this constant bickering back and forth. Even though it may be fun to get a rise out of people we must remember to respect ourselves otherwise no one will respect us.
No Name Provided
USA - Monday, August 07, 2000 at 16:55:21 (PDT)

Excuse me but these cheap shots being made towards people need to stop and they need to stop RIGHT NOW! Jimmy Farhat is one of my BEST friends, and for you to get on this website and make a crack at someone's sence of humor and fashion choices is just completely CHEAP! I'm not trying to be mean,rude,or nasty in any way but c'mon! I just think that shot you took was WRONG! Regardless if it was towards my friend or a complete stranger, it just shouldn't be done at all. This website is to discuss idea's, issues, and goals. Not peoples personal choices and traits. No one can talk nicely of each other anymore, and it upsets me. Stop the stupid stuff!
No Name Provided
jacksonville, fla USA - Monday, August 07, 2000 at 09:13:24 (PDT)

I agree 100% with Yousef. We are starting to look bad and we are starting to make other people look bad as well. I have to say something though. Fashion police, whoever you are, have no right bashing my brother like that. He was trying to add humor into the guestbook so people like yourself will lighten up and stop all the arguing. My brother is one of the funniest and nicest people u will ever know. And his wardrobe?? He wears t-shirts and shorts. Girls call him all the time so i guess there isn't much wrong with him. i would appreciate it if you would just stop being immature. You obviously know my bro so just call him, do not TRY to bash him on this guestbook where actual mature people would like to discuss issues. And to everyone else. I promise some of us in jacksonville DO love each other we just seem to have a couple of bad seeds =) LOVE TO ALL!!
Sommer Farhat <arabactress@aol.com>
Jacksonville, Fl USA - Monday, August 07, 2000 at 06:53:29 (PDT)

YOUSEF....I AGREE WITH YOU COMPLETELY...WE HAVE A FEW PEOPLE HERE IN JAX WHO MAKE US ALL LOOK BAD...THIS BOOK SHOULDNT BE FOR HATRED OR TO BASH ANYONE..ITS TO TALK ABOUT ISSUES THAT HAS REAL CONCERNS....HOPE WE ALL CAN CHANGE THE ATMOSPHERE HERE IN THIS BOOK....TALK TO YA'LL SOON.....BUSH FOR PRES....ISSA NICHOLAS.......
ISSA NICHOLAS <ALLDAY048@AOL.COM>
JVILLE, FL USA - Monday, August 07, 2000 at 06:26:18 (PDT)

FASHION POLICE....If you leave your name and E-mail address I will forward you many E-mails I recieved from other guestbook viewers saying how entertaining my entries are. Something different than 2 person war back and forth which nobody cares about. I am sure nobody cares about the entry you just made. You start your entry by saying how we should change the atmosphere then you ATTEMP to insult me so everyone can read this..............I don't think I can sleep now knowing there is a fashion police in Jax who is constantly worried about my appearance. If your a friend of mine or not, Thanks for keeping me in your thoughts. I would like to apologize to the guestbook for my above entry. I should be more mature and just ignore the comment made. Hopefully this will not happen again. Can someone who is deeply involved with the Ramallah clubs or who has any news or ideas please let us know something so we can start to talk about it. Jimmy
Jamil Farhat <Tapmytummy@AOL.com>
Jacksonville, Fl USA - Monday, August 07, 2000 at 06:18:48 (PDT)

Hey Ramallahites why don't we start our own chat room on AOL? All you have to do is enter a private chat and type RAMALLAH CHAT. It will probably take a few weeks to get started up, but I'm sure it will be great. Hope to see you there!
No Name Provided
USA - Sunday, August 06, 2000 at 18:28:07 (PDT)

This is my first time in the AFRP Guestbook and I will like to discuss my views on the entries that have been made. This is a forum for all Ramallah people to get to know each other and discuss pressing issues. I would like to make one comment; Jacksonville-Is there no love between the people of the city? I personally feel that this is a disgrace to all Ramallah people in Jacksonville, along with the rest of the community to have arguments and hatred towards each other. I read in the entries that people want to talk about the pressing issues but do not know where to begin. Let me share with you some ideas; have love amongst each other, be thankful you guys have each other, thank God that you all are free to speek your minds, walk the streets anytime with no fear, and most of all, that you all are entitled to have your own opinions. Thank you for your time. And may you all have peace and love in your hearts.
Yousef
Ramallah - Sunday, August 06, 2000 at 14:21:09 (PDT)

Yes we do need to change the atmosphere here in the Ramallah guestbook. First of all Mr. Jamil (Jimmy) Farhat needs to change his humor. Not to mention his wardrobe. Not very funny at all. Lets try a new approach. Second of all to the concerned parent, we are kids and let us be kids. We will grow up in due time. Thanks for yout time. F.P.
Fashion Police <FashionPolice@D.C.com>
Fashion City, Fl USA - Saturday, August 05, 2000 at 22:17:39 (PDT)

Hello everyone...this is to answer Sophia's question regarding Project Hope...GO! It will change your life. It was the BEST experience I have ever had. Actually it was project hope that made me realize that Palestinian Americans don't know what's going on back home. Here's the deal. You can stay at a discount there if you like, last time I went I stayed at the Angelia, a Palestinian orphanage...we played and sang songs with those poor kids. Then, we visited schools, hosptials, picked up garbage, planted flowers in the streets of Ramallah...and had spare time to go on tours and attend Haflahs at night (they were the best parties!) On top of that, we met Hanan Ashrawi and Yaser Arafat. It was a mix of fun and education, and a chance to bond with your fellow Palestinians in a different way than convention. I still keep in touch with all of my friends I met there, and we all still share the awesome memories. So, Sophia..go while you can, go every year if you can! And to all others on this board, if you have a skill you think you can share with Palestinians back home, take this opportunity. If you're a doctor, share your knowledge with the hospitals there,if you're a teacher, visit the schools, if you're a journalist, visit the Arabi newspaper orgs, if you're a Palestinian, go and help make your country a wonderful place!!!! Peace out and love you all... Desert Diva
Desert Diva
USA - Saturday, August 05, 2000 at 16:01:02 (PDT)

the san francisco convention is going to be held at the Hyatt Hotel in Burlingame, CA a town 10 minutes from sf. its july 4-july 8, 2001. we are in the process of planning it so keep an eye in hathihe for more info. hope to see you guys there :)
tina k
san francisco , ca USA - Saturday, August 05, 2000 at 15:02:46 (PDT)

WHATS UP YALL?....WANNA RUMBLE WITH THE BEE HUH?...BZZZZZZ..THROW A HEX ON YOUR WHOLE FAMILY....LOL....YEAH I AGREE, LETS CHANGE THE SUBJECT AND TALK ABOUT THINGS THAT REALLY MATTER....GEORGE BUSH FOR PRESIDENT......LATER......ISSA NICHOLAS
ISSA NICHOLAS <ALLDAY048@AOL.COM>
JVILLE , FL USA - Saturday, August 05, 2000 at 07:06:41 (PDT)

You guys can you all just please stop.Due to some of the things being said the majority of us are starting to look bad. If you have nothing to say but bash someone's opinion please just do not say it at all.To the other people in different cities and to the other Jacksonville people i apologize for the people making us look so ridiculous.
Sommer Farhat <Arabactress@aol.com>
Jacksonville, Fl USA - Friday, August 04, 2000 at 20:44:45 (PDT)

Conserned Parint? Sum ove us don't no how two uze korrekt gramer and punkchewation. Wee just need two chainge de subjekt and talk abowt sitchewations dat wee can ALL disskuss. P.S (Don't take offense to this!! I'm just trying to humor up the guestbook and start off a fresh subject) Jamil
Jamil (Jimmy) Farhat <Tapmytummy@aol.com>
Jacksonville, Florida USA - Friday, August 04, 2000 at 18:25:27 (PDT)

I would like to thank everybody who included Joseph in your prayers. My brother is a beautiful and special person. We miss him and love him so much. Joe, please watch over us and be our gaurdian angel. You are forever in our hearts my baby brother and now an Angel in heaven. Wait for us.
Norma Eadeh Bader
Cleveland, OH USA - Friday, August 04, 2000 at 15:05:19 (PDT)

TO THE Concerned parent. DID YOU UNDER STAND WHAT I WAS TALKING ABOUT. LETS THINK ABOUT THIS FOR A SEC. AND THEN LETS THINK HOW GOOD OF A PARENT WE REALLY ARE. DONT WORRY ABOUT THE WAY WE SPELL. JUST WORRY THAT THE POINT HAS GOTTEN THROUGH THANK YOU TO ALL MO
mohanad <no14mo@aol .com>
USA - Friday, August 04, 2000 at 13:53:20 (PDT)

Hello, hows everyone doing ? , hopefully just fine. well i would just like to say , yall jacksonville people wow thanks alot now we know how yall people down there are like , yall really made this guestbook look just wonderful. i hope yall have enjoyed it . take care . and be happy . =)
Johnny A.
NYC, NY USA - Friday, August 04, 2000 at 13:31:20 (PDT)

For the love of Allah....can't we all just get along?
Jenny <jenfr18@aol.com>
jville, FL USA - Thursday, August 03, 2000 at 21:15:04 (PDT)

Jimmy, you are too funny! Well just so you and anyone else interested knows, the ramallah club of Jax does have a web site. Here's the link http://afrp.org/RamallahClub/ A while back, I did suggest a message board, chat room and alot of other things but it hasn't been done yet. Maybe someday soon they will be. Who knows?????
Lena Eadeh <Lena0511@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Thursday, August 03, 2000 at 19:13:53 (PDT)

ok guys, i sense a lil tension... lol... why dont we change the subject & everyone SMILE :) can anyone think of a good topic to discuss or debate about? if so, let us know so we can fire up the guestbook in a mature way :) i love you guys & miss u veryyy much- u know who u r- cuz u know thissss... muahhhhh
Sophia Sahouri <CUZuNOthis@aol.com>
Great Falls, VA - Thursday, August 03, 2000 at 15:25:32 (PDT)

FIRST OF ALL......To this "No Name Provided" person. I printed your response onto paper and had it sent to the CIA (Computer Ivestigation Association) They examined the font and the dot pitch and were able to determine what type of computer was used. It was then sent to the CFA (Computer Forensics Association. Just like fingerprints, letters have unique prints too. So they EASILY determined from the unique marks on the letters, which is basically a serial number. The information was sent to the CAJ (Computer Archives of Jacsonville) in which they were able to locate the computer, store from which it was bought, reciept and most of all the owner. I KNOW WHO YOU ARE!!! STOP TRYING TO HIDE SECOND.....We Jacksonville people are R-E-T-A-R-T-E-D, myself included. This is the AFRP guestbook. NOT the AFRPJF (American Federation of Ramallah Palestine OF Jacksonville, Florida). Sooooooooooooo.......whomever has the skills needs to create a website for Jacksonville people ONLY. As NO14MO said, there are people on here who are sick of us talking about Jacksonville stuff. Let's talk about stuff or ideas that EVERYONE can share..
JAMIL (JIMMY) FARHAT <Tapmytummy@Aol.com>
Jacksonville, Florida USA - Thursday, August 03, 2000 at 09:45:17 (PDT)

I would like to comment on the quality of the messages being posted lately. It really is a disgrace when messages are posted with poor grammar and spelling. If you are unsure, ask someone to proofread! Or, if no one is around, you should copy your message into a Word document for grammar/spell check. If you want your message to be read by everyone, KEEP IT SHORT! Messages that take up more than an entire screen are unnecessary. Nobody wants to read your ESSAY. So please, be considerate to others. Keep it short and correct and your point will get across more effectively. Thank you.
Concerned parent
Jacksonville, FL USA - Thursday, August 03, 2000 at 07:17:34 (PDT)

I JUST WANT TO KNOW WHAT IS THE DEAL WITH EVERYONE AND WHY NO ONE CAN TELL US AS READER WHO WE ARE AND ONE MORE THING HAS ANYONE RELIZED THAT WHEN ALL THE OTHER SATES AND COUNTRYS SIGN ON TO THIS PAGE ALL THAT THEY SEE IS A BUNCH OF FOOLS FLORIDA IS THE DIRTY SOUTH BUT WE ARE MAKING JVILLE LOOK THE LIKE A PEICE OF S--T IN FRONT OF ALL THE OTHER PEOPLE READING THIS. ISSA YOUR STILL MY DOG,NICK, MIKE, JIMMY, NOTHING BUT LOVE,THE TWINS STAY COOL AND TO ALL MY LADIES YOU KNOW I HAVE NOTHING BUT LOVE (faten, abeer)love will always be there for us love you guys. and one more thing peace out
mo <no14mo@aol.com>
jax, FL USA - Wednesday, August 02, 2000 at 00:03:37 (PDT)

LOL..THANKS MIKE.....BUT ITS NOT A MR. ITS A MRS. WHO WROTE IT....ILL EMAIL YO WITH THEIR NAME...ALL THEY DO IS BASH PEOPLE...YOUNG PEOPLE AT THAT...BUT ILL EMAIL YOU WITH THE NAME..AND THANKS FOR THE RESPONSE......LATER YALL.....ISSA
ISSA ODEH <ALLDAY048@AOL.COM>
JVILLE , FL USA - Tuesday, August 01, 2000 at 17:55:28 (PDT)

HEY MR/MS NO NAME PROVIDED. GET OFF YOUR HIGH HORSE. ISSA IS ENTITLED TO HIS OPINION JUST LIKE EVERYONE ELSE. YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF YOURSELF FOR TRYING TO DENY A MAN HIS OPINION. LADY/MR. THIS IS AMERICA, IF YOU HAVENT NOTICED. HERE IN AMERICA WE HAVE THIS LITTLE THING CALLED FREEDOM OF SPEECH. WHY DONT YOU GIVE US YOUR NAME? ARE YOU ASHAMED OF YOUR COMMENTS? HUH? IF YOU DONT LIKE WHAT SOMEONE HAS TO SAY, PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR ARGUEMENT IN A CIVILIZED AND HONORABLE WAY..PLEASE, GIVE US YOUR NAME. DONT HIDE BEHIND "NO NAME". IF YOU HAVE A PROBLEM WITH ISSA OR HIS COMMENTS, REMEMBER YOUR GONNA HAVE TO DEAL WITH HIM, AND HIS PEOPLE. NAMELY ME. 'PRECIATE YALLS TIME.
Mike <Moose1128@aol.com>
fl USA - Tuesday, August 01, 2000 at 14:24:10 (PDT)

Why don't the community of Ramallah quit aruging,,and start doing something ask ur peers . Ya'll are just acting like the Middle Peace talk.. can never solve anything.
No Name Provided.
USA - Tuesday, August 01, 2000 at 13:03:22 (PDT)

I am no author. The things I write are crude and rude to say the least BUT the information I present should be a very hot topic for publication. The conflict in the middle east is nothing more than an unholy war in my opinion. Because several Christians are ignorant of their own bible, they think they are doing God's will by sending the "Jews" millions of dollars in support and military aid. If they will use their bible to act then the world should know the information in that bible. Regardless if the bible is true or false, Christians are going to believe it and use it to support "Jews". The information I present is bible information no preacher or rabbi on earth has ever noticed or they are concealing it. I don't figure most Muslims know much about the bible, but there must be many Muslims who have Arab friends who are Christians. Christians of European descent will probably ignore this bible information let alone publish it. Arab students of the bible will quickly pick up on the information I present, so I would suggest that any potential author find Arab bible students they can consult with. Every thing I write is free. Any pending author can take the parts they are interested and use them to write their books. As I have said, my words are crude and rude. Authors will have to render the information into a form that can be published to the public. The scope of this information has nothing to do with promoting Islam. This information concerns: a) Stopping the unholy wars against Arabs by * the "Jew's" use of the bible. * the help of Christians who are ignorant of their own bible information. I know some Arab countries do not have a lot of Christians in them, but some do and some Arab countries have Christian schools and teaching organizations. I would suggest that a spruced up version of this information be published to this segment of Christian Arab youth, to get their gears rolling so they begin to investigate my assertions and the proofs from their own bibles. Regardless if the bible is true or false, Christians are going to believe and act on it, so educate them with all of the information from their bibles that they will never consider or discover from any preacher or rabbi. If the Christians of the world are going to act on the bible then let them stop using it as a weapon in an unholy war against the Arab people. I will continue to update this web page, so if anyone wants to be informed of a new page they can join my news list (info on the web page). I will be glad to reply to any questions or work with any authors who consider this information for a new book. Glean the web pages and take any segments you can use. The page is: http://arabisraelites.freeservers.com
Bud <arabisraelite@juno.com>
USA - Tuesday, August 01, 2000 at 12:35:53 (PDT)

AFRP Web Site July 2000 Statistics. (Total hits: 51,309; Total unique hosts: 1,293; Total kilobytes transferred: 753,637)
AFRP JULY 2000 Stats <afrp@afrp.org>
USA - Tuesday, August 01, 2000 at 09:27:26 (PDT)

FIRST OF ALL THERE ARE A LOT OF SCARED PEOPLE IN THIS BOOK BECAUSE OF THE FACT THAT THEY CANT PUT THEIR NAME DOWN...SECOND OF ALL I DID NOT DENY THE FACT THAT THOSE MEN WENT THROUGH SOME HARDSHIPS WHEN COMING TO THIS COUNTRY...MY PARENTS DID AS WELL....AND SO DID 99% OF THE RAMALLAH PEOPLE....BUT WE ARE IN THE YEAR 2000....NOT IN THE 1960'S OR 1970'S....YOUR RIGHT...THOSE MEN DID BUILD THE RAMALLAH CLUB....BUT THOSE MEN ARE ALSO TEARING IT DOWN....IF THEY WERE POOR AND DIDNT HAVE BUSINESS' THEN I WOULD UNDERSTAND THAT...BUT MOST OF THOSE MEN ARE WELL SET OFF AND HAVE MONEY FOR THE FUTURE OF THEIR KIDS....OF COURSE THEY WORKED HARD FOR THEIR MONEY....WHO DOESNT...IM JUST SAYING THAT THEY HAVE A LITTLE MORE KNOWLEDGE, TIME, MONEY THAN WE KIDS DO....THEY SHOULD ENJOY THEIR TIME PLAYING CARDS....BUT ITS WRONG TO SPEN A LOT OF MONEY TO ACCOMIDATE THEIR "ROOM'..WHY NOT SPEND MONEY TO ACCOMIDATE THE CLUB "WHICH IS THEIRS"...MAYBE THE YOUTH NEEDS TOHAVE A MEETING WITH THE OLDER GROUP WHO "BUILT THE CLUB WHEN I WAS IN DIAPERS"....IT MAY SOLVE PLENTY OF PROBLEMS....ME AND MY FAMILY ARE MEMBERS OF THE RAMALLAH CLUB....BUT MRS. NO NAME PROVIDED YOUR RIGHT...I NEED TO QUIT ACTING LIKE A "BIG MAN" AND GO OUT AND DO SOMETHING... ILL GO OUT AND DO MY PART.....THANKS FOR THE LETTER THOUGH ....ISSA
ISSA ODEH <ALLDAY048@AOL.COM>
JVILLE, FL USA - Tuesday, August 01, 2000 at 05:31:41 (PDT)

ISSA ODEH YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF YOURSELF CALLING THE ARAB IN JACKSONVILLE CHEAP, WHAT DO YOU A YOUNG SINGLE MAN LIVING AT HOME KNOW ABOUT THE HARDSHIPS THESE FAMILIES FACED WHEN IMMIGRATING TO THE U.S? WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THEIR STRUGGLES? WHEN YOU HAVE BEEN THROUGH WHAT THEY HAVE BEEN THROUGH THEN MAYBE YOU CAN COMPREHEND THE ARAB'S CHEAPNESS. FURTHERMORE, WHY SHOULD THESE OLDER MEN BE DENIED A LITTLE ENTERTAINMENT PLAYING POKER IN A CLUB WHERE THEY ARE MEMBERS AND PAY THEIR DUES, A CLUB THAT THEY HAVE BUILT AND SUPPORTED WITH THEIR OWN MONEY FOR YEARS AND YEARS. IT IS THEIR CLUB AND THEY HAVE EVERY RIGHT TO PLAY POKER THERE AND ENJOY THE WORK AND STRUGGLE THEY PUT IN TO BUILDING IT.THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH OUR CLUB. IT IS JUST A TRANSITIONAL TIME IN THE GENERATION RIGHT NOW,AND THE KIDS YOUR AGE SHOULD BE HAVING GET TOGETHERS AND DOING COMMUNITY SERVICE AS A GROUP. WHO ARE YOU TO JUDGE ANYONE WHEN YOU ARE ALL TALK. DO YOU THINK YOU CAN BEGRUDGE THESE OLDER MEN A LITTLE GAME OF POKER OR MAKE THEM PAY RENT? THEY BUILT THIS CLUB WHILE YOU WERE WEARING DIAPERS. NOW STOP ALL THIS "IM A BIG MAN TALK" AND STOP INSULTING PEOPLE AND GO OUT AND DO SOMETHING FOR YOUR CLUB. YALLA! CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE YOUNG TEENS WHO ARE BRINGING UP ENCOURAGING IDEAS FOR THE BETTERMENT OF YOUR CLUB.
No Name Provided
JAX, FL USA - Monday, July 31, 2000 at 19:53:39 (PDT)

I just want to give a quick shoutout to all the people that were at the convention, It was like one big PLO party. I had so much fun and hope to see you all you awesome people in San Francisco, especially the Harb's from Cleveland cause you guys no how to have fun. I had such a blast with all of you guys and I have the pictures that will last me forever. Take care people
No Name Provided
USA - Monday, July 31, 2000 at 18:11:18 (PDT)

WHILE LEARNING MORE ABOUT THE RAMALLAH PROGRAMS THAT ARE BEING SPONSORED, I HEARD ABOUT PROJECT HOPE- BUT I WANT TO GET ATLEAST THE BASIC INFORMATION ABOUT IT. THE LITTLE I KNOW SOUNDS GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME TO GET INVOLVED BUT I WANT TO GET SOME MORE INFORMATION. IF YOU COULD EMAIL ME OR POST IT, WHATEVA'S CLEVA...! LOL MEANWHILE- EVERYONE TAKE CARE & KEEP IN TOUCH. MUCH LOVE TO MY PEOPLE U KNOW WHO ALL OF YA'LL ARE... CUZ U KNOW THISSSSS...!! MUAHHHHH
Sophia Sahouri <CUZuNOthis@aol.com>
Great Falls, VA - Sunday, July 30, 2000 at 23:58:27 (PDT)

Ahlan from Amman!!! just a quick hi, email me if you're coming to ramallah :-) by the way the hotel the federation is staying at is super nice... y'all better give us a call when we get here b/c jet ;agged or not we expect to party with you in the AC... there's a massive heat wave goin down right now... should be colled off a bit by the time the federtion trip gets here but for example today was about 113 F. FUN! but it's still amazing here. anyway take care & we're looking forward hanging out with you all out here.
Amal Harb <amalharb@acsu.buffalo.edu>
Amman, Jordan - Sunday, July 30, 2000 at 12:23:35 (PDT)

Does anyone have any information on the hotel in SanFran? I would like some info thanks.
No need to put a name
USA - Sunday, July 30, 2000 at 12:18:09 (PDT)

If you ask my why my entry was printed twice..Well,I couldn't tell ya! Sorry about my mistake..in the first entry I said CONVENTION..and the 2nd I mentioned the CLUB. I guess my mind is still on that awesome weekend we had! Sorry bout the mistake but my message still stands firm! =) PEACE OUT YA'LL!!!
Miranda
Jax, fla USA - Sunday, July 30, 2000 at 10:31:03 (PDT)

hello to everyone i just wanted to say. that im new to the guestbook and i have been reading a lot of it lately. there are some good ideas in here like DALIA, FATEN and LENAS. yes they do sound like a long time comitment, but if all of us unite together as one we CAN DO IT. PEACE OUT
MOHANAD IWAIS <NO14MO@aol.com>
jax., fl USA - Sunday, July 30, 2000 at 00:41:52 (PDT)

Hello everyone... Nice ideas being tossed around about creating youth clubs etc that actually make money. I understand it seems everyone is so busy and it's hard to get the money and volunteer support to make it all happen. If everyone wants positive action, check this out. What's awesome about the internet is that for the first time in history, you can send an opinion about Palestine in real time about any issue that you want to protest! It's apartheid in Palestine, I mean, as a Palestinian you can't even drive a car unless you have a blue license plate, which means they single you out for check points, impose curfew, limit where you can go, while the yahood with their yellow license plates can go where they want when they want!!! For crying out loud, if there is an AMBULANCE with a blue licence plate, the yahood will stop it and let other yahood pass. Many Palestinians have died this way...they treat us like sub-human filth. My point is, now, WE CAN DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS QUICKLY AND EASILY!!!! All you have to do is click on this link once a week, and write in about the issue that burns you the most. If we all do this once a week, you can imagine the change it will cause!!! I actually wish afrp would post this on the website, although it seems they are always too afraid of getting "political"...I have yet to find a yahoodi organization that's afraid to get political. Our whole identity is political, people have just got to deal with us because WE WILL NOT GO AWAY!!! THIS LINK ROCKS THE WORLD: http://www.adc.org/action/2000/5july2000.htm Peace out, DESERT DIVA
DESERT DIVA
USA - Saturday, July 29, 2000 at 21:36:51 (PDT)

I AM WILLING TO CONTRIBUTE TO HELP LAUNCH A LIBRARY OR SOME OTHER SORT OF EDUCATIONAL FACILITY FOR ARE YOUNGER YOUTH AND FOR OUR FUTURE KIDS.... BUT WE DO HAVE TO FACE REALITY...YOU HAVE TO PUT MONEY IN IN ORDER TO GET RESULTS....BUT OVER 50% OF THE RAMALLAH FAMILIES IN JAX ARE VERY, VERY CHEAP....BUT AS ASLWAYS MY WALLET IS OPEN FOR THE KIDS AND FOR MY FUTURE KIDS....WE DONT NEED A POOL....WE DONT NEED MORE GAMES....WE NEED BOOKS, COMPUTERS, AND OTHER EDUCATIONAL EQUIPMENT....WHAT WE NEED TO DO IS MAKE THE GUYS IN THE "MEETING ROOM" PAY RENT EACH MONTH FOR THEIR TIME AND LONG HOURS DOING PAPERWORK...POKERRRRR....THAT MONEY WOULD GO TO BUY BOOKS AND THE REST OF THE NECESSITIES FOR EDUCATION....BUT IF NOT THEY SHOULD FIND ANOTHER PLACE TO "WASTE" THEIR TIME AND HARD EARNED MONEY....AND I FOR ONE WILL MAKE SURE OF THAT....WHEN IT COMES ELECTION TIME, I KNOW OF A FEW PEOPLE WHO ARE THINKING ABOUT RUNNING FOR OFFICE.....THE PRESIDENTS SPOT....SOMEONE HONEST, TRUSTING, CARING AND WHATS THE BEST FOR THE RAMALLAH COMMUNITY...BUT ONLY TIME WILL TELL....SO IM HERE TO OFFER MY SUPPORT TO HELP THE RAMMALH CLUB GET BACK TO WHERE IT NEEDS TO STAND....THANKS FOR YOUT TIME.....BIG TIMER......ISSA ODEH....NOT AFRAID TO GIVE MONEY...
ISSA ODEH <ALLDAY048@AOL.COM>
JVILLE , FL USA - Saturday, July 29, 2000 at 20:43:02 (PDT)

Hey! I haven't added to this in a while, I thought now would be a good time. To all those offering new ideas for the RAMALLAH CLUB OF JAX, it's refreshing to hear these ideas spring out of such young people! The club is going under and it's almost like as the years go by, it sinks more and more into the quicksands of time. I think to the girls and/or guys just hitting the peak of their adulthood should run for some sort of office coming up soon!! We all make light of the "VOTE FOR SO AND SO for President" comments, BUT I see nothing wrong with a YOUNG LADY for president. Just for example, Liz and Lena, you both seem to have SO much to say for the betterment of the club, WHY NOT RUN FOR PRESIDENT and put those ideas to work???? The adults are struggling to find people for office because they are tired out, and so are their ideas and motives! We need fresh people, fresh faces, fresh ages! I say this because when MY time comes where I am old enough to become involved in an office, I AM going to run! I think we all should start spacing out our careers, jobs, school-time, and think about running for some sort of office next installation-period. That's my thoughts and suggestions. I hope some of you guys take it seriously because we are at the brink of a turning period! Let's start something new! =) SHOUT OUTS TO SOME FAMILY and TRUE friends~~> Sophiaaaa, Budtaaaa, Loraaaa, MiMi (MWA!), Tina my tuntoonie,Connie & Mikey, Basheer, Bishara, Khaled, Johnny the Deech, Samer, JAWAD(my badman) LOL, Marshoud my ViperBoy!,ALL OF HTOWN-yall are not only my boys but my family, TO the cuzins in CALI-LOVE YOU ALL, BIGG FRED-My hanooneh- and last but NOT least, my 1 love all the way in Ramallah, Jimmy Rukab! MISS YOU SO MUCH ...PEACE OUT!
Miranda
Jax, Fla USA - Saturday, July 29, 2000 at 16:53:34 (PDT)

Hey! I haven't added to this in a while, I thought now would be a good time. To all those offering new ideas for convention, it's refreshing to hear these ideas spring out of such young people! The club is going under and it's almost like as the years go by, it sinks more and more into the quicksands of time. I think to the girls and/or guys just hitting the peak of their adulthood should run for some sort of office coming up soon!! We all make light of the "VOTE FOR SO AND SO for President" comments, BUT I see nothing wrong with a YOUNG LADY for president. Just for example, Liz and Lena, you both seem to have SO much to say for the betterment of the club, WHY NOT RUN FOR PRESIDENT and put those ideas to work???? The adults are struggling to find people for office because they are tired out, and so are their ideas and motives! We need fresh people, fresh faces, fresh ages! I say this because when MY time comes where I am old enough to become involved in an office, I AM going to run! I think we all should start spacing out our careers, jobs, school-time, and think about running for some sort of office next installation-period. That's my thoughts and suggestions. I hope some of you guys take it seriously because we are at the brink of a turning period! Let's start something new! =) SHOUT OUTS TO SOME FAMILY and TRUE friends~~> Sophiaaaa, Budtaaaa, Loraaaa, MiMi (MWA!), Tina my tuntoonie,Connie & Mikey, Basheer, Bishara, Khaled, Johnny the Deech, Samer, JAWAD(my badman) LOL, Marshoud my ViperBoy!,ALL OF HTOWN-yall are not only my boys but my family, TO the cuzins in CALI-LOVE YOU ALL, BIGG FRED-My hanooneh- and last but NOT least, my 1 love all the way in Ramallah, Jimmy Rukab! MISS YOU SO MUCH ...PEACE OUT!
Miranda
Jax, Fla USA - Saturday, July 29, 2000 at 16:52:20 (PDT)

I JUST WANTED TO SAY PROPS TO MY GIRLS WHO TOOK THE TRIP TO FLORIDA--THE CONVENTION WAS AL RIGHT BUT WE HAD A BLAST. G.K. , S.K., S.S., L.A., L.N., FROM CALI AND C.K. FROM MICHIGAN. (OR SHALL WE SAY ROOM 736) LUV YA GUYS. TO EVERYONE ELSE, HADROO HALKUM FROM NOW CAUSE NEXT YEAR IN SAN FRANCISCO, IT'S GONNA BE OOOOOONNNNNNN !!!!!!!!!!!! YUULUH HOY!!
TINA K
SAN FRANCISCO , CA USA - Saturday, July 29, 2000 at 15:00:54 (PDT)

My name is Jamil Farhat. Just wanna say hi to everyone.
Name Provided <Tapmytummy@aol.com>
Jacksonville, Florida USA - Saturday, July 29, 2000 at 06:11:33 (PDT)

I would like to say one thing to everyone who is talking about the HOUSTON boys. Ya'll talk about us because you can't be us!
BASHEER ZANAYED <gegolly@aol.com>
HOUSTON, TEXAS USA - Saturday, July 29, 2000 at 02:08:51 (PDT)

OKAY I WAS THINKING ABOUT EVERYTHING I READ FROM EVERYONE. BEFORE WE DO ANYTHING WE NEED TO HAVE A FELLOWSHIP. WE ALL NEED TO STOP TALKING ABOUT IT AND JUST DO IT!! WHEN I WROTE ABOUT HOW WE SHOULD FORM A YOUTH GRP,NOBODY REPSONDED TO MY COMMENT.AND I PERSONALLY THINK I HAD GOOD EXAMPLES AND REASONS ABOUT MY THOUGHTS, AND I DONT UNDERSTAND WHY YA'LL CHOSE TO IGNORE MY COMMENT. I WOULD BE HAPPY TO START UP A YOUTH GROUP I AM ALL FOR IT. BUT I WOULD NEED SOMEONE OLDER,TO GET THEIR AGE GRP INVOLVED ALSO.I MEAN IF WE JUST KEEP TALKING ABOUT IT ON HERE NOTHING IS GONNA COME OUT OF THIS.IF WE WANT A POOL GYM ETC. THAT IS GONNA TAKE YEARS! BUT IF WE FORMED A YOUTH GRP. MAYBE WE COULD DO SOMETHING DRASTICALLY TO OUR RAMALLAH CLUB. LIKE I SAID WITHOUT FELLOWSHIP, NO GYM,POOL. SO I THINK SOMEONE NEEDS TO FORM SOMETHING AND QUIT TALKING ABOUT HAVING ALL THESE LUXURIES FOR OUR CLUB,UNTIL WE GET SOMETHING START UP. SOMEONE EMAILED ME TELLIN ME THAT WOULD BE A GOOD IDEA TO MIX THE AGE GROUPS. BUT I HEAR PEOPLE ARE TO PICKY AND WOULDNT WANT TO HANG OUT WITH WITH PEOPLE YOUNGER. WELL IF WE DONT MIX AGES THERE WILL BE NO GROUP.I MIGHT BE YOUNG BUT I KNOW WHAT IM TALKING ABOUT, AND I HAVE GREAT IDEAS. THANKS DALIA
DALIA MOUSA <DALEYA@AOL.COM>
JACKSONVILLE, FL USA - Friday, July 28, 2000 at 21:30:49 (PDT)

Hey hey hey everyone!!! Let me just say that it's good to be home!!! After spending 7 weeks in Ramallah....I have learned and experienced soooo much that I will never forget. Although I missed a great convention, I think I speak for everyone when I say that I would rather be in Ramallah than any other convention!!! But it sure is awesome to hear that everyone had a great time...even though people were so-called being "clicky"...but I mean does that really matter??? Who cares man...as long as your with the people that you love, then no one really has the right to criticize other peoples actions. Remember it isn't what you're doing that matters....it's who you're with. And I hope that everyone will sooner or later come to that realization. I encourage everyone to visit Ramallah...just to see how our parents and grandparents lived...I guarantee it will be the best experience. You just gotta see it to believe it. Much love to all my Eadeh's here in Cleveland...I love you all sooo much...and even though you're in a better place....I love you too Joe. Much love to Budta, Treee, Shuggah and My sophia...ya'll are the greatest friends. Special shoutout to that one person in Michigan....you know who you are!!! Peace in the middle east!!!
Lora Eadeh <Luvinlola@hotmail.com>
Cleveland, Oh USA - Friday, July 28, 2000 at 20:06:30 (PDT)

Hello from Chicago!
Nader Mufarreh <Nader36@juno.com>
Chicago, IL USA - Friday, July 28, 2000 at 15:42:01 (PDT)

This message is in response to Jordan (Does it really matter)! I was very offended when I read your opinions regarding the Chicago, Houston, and Detroit guys. I would first like to say their was a total of three Chicago guys in attendance at the convention!! In order for you to say that they were so "Ghetto" and acting like abeed, you must have spent every minute with them at the convention, which I find impossible since I was with them mostly and I did not have the pleasure of meeting you!! If you had any supporting evidence to prove the "Ghettoness" of all us Chicagoans then you would have mentioned it, but you didn't!!! Obviously you were to busy to even check the spelling of your comments before they were posted. I would imagine you actually thought young, aggressive, intelligent, prospective Ramallah Palestinians would give a second thought to your opinion, but in fact only people were offended by it. Since the first message you sent out clearly did not state your name, you did not have any support to your untrue theories and just wanted to stir up trouble in the guestbook! I encourage you to comment on stronger, important issues next time, but until then, keep immature comments to yourself!!
Angie Ghanayem <Shatra1017@aol.com>
CHGO, Il USA - Friday, July 28, 2000 at 13:51:06 (PDT)

well, i would really like for "no name provided" to tell all of us who you are. you must be a very BIG coward to not show your face when needed. you seem like you know a lot more than the rest of us do. so give us your insight, and stop hiding! you dont have to hide behind a screen to give your OPINION. just tell it to us like YOU see it and everything will be cool. DONT BE SCARED! and to Lena, i will vote you in to be President. (i can be vice President?) lol. i'm sure a lot more people will love the club and like to go to it if it was a more relaxing place to go to. its so uptight! i also would like to say that i agree with Deanna, we're not going to cancel our memberships at our current gyms, just to join the Ramallah clubs. and i personally love my pool in my backyard! ok, bye!
Faten Iwais <AYOONY4@AOL.COM>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Friday, July 28, 2000 at 11:55:49 (PDT)

I jsut wanted to give a shoutout to the guys I met in Cleveland, You guys were awesome. Hope to see all of you guys in San Fran cause it wouldnt be a convention w/out u guys!
QTPY1980
USA - Friday, July 28, 2000 at 11:11:36 (PDT)

Jawad Zanayed What's up Kid!!! Who the hell is this person talking about Chicago, Houston, and Detroit!!! They just don't know how tight it is up our way and just need to get checked about reality!!!
Joey Hani <joseph.hani@abnamro.com>
Chicago, IL USA - Friday, July 28, 2000 at 09:55:46 (PDT)

listen, no name provided, when i suggested to provide a library for the club, it was simply a suggestion to help everyone in this community. not just for the people who are always worried about thier pockets being empty or full. the pool, gym , and other extravegants are a little out of hand, i will admit to. but this library, come on, you have to have a little heart to at least consider it. i dont know who you are or who your mother and father are, but they should've at least taught you that heritage is the #1 thing to have in life. HE WHO DENIES HIS HERITAGE, HAS NO HERITAGE! OK? those of you who are in this with me, and who are willing to put forth your money, time, sweat, and heart thanks guys!!
Faten Iwais <AYOONY4@AOL.COM>
Jax, FL USA - Friday, July 28, 2000 at 09:28:57 (PDT)

In speaking for myself, I am still a student and no, cannot make a down payment on anything, but I am very confident that my parents would be more than happy to contribute to something constructive the Club tried to do, especially for the youth. You are correct when you say many members of the club don't even pay their dues, but that is their problem if they don't care enough and don't want to put forth efforts. There are alot out there that DO pay dues and WOULD pitch in. The ones that don't shouldn't overpower the ones that do nor keep them from moving ahead. Sure, it may take more time but what advancement doesn't take time? Also, the way I perceived what Lizzie said about a pool or a gym wasn't literally, but for those things to serve as examples. I don't know if that is the way Lizzie intended it or the way anyone else took it, but that's how I was speaking of it. The point is that we need to have SOMETHING to draw our youth together, it doesn't even have to be a physical element such as a pool or gym. Those were just extreme examples. Even if I do "walk the walk", I don't want any pat on the back. I don't deserve that for simple ideas to help our club. I think we're all just trying to work together, not get any individual recognition. And to the person who wrote that last entry from Jacksonville, please know that I am in no way trying to get defensive or put down your ideas because I respect your thoughts and believe you were just speaking very relaistically. I mean, we're both from Jax so I am sure we know each other and hey, you're probably even a relative! So, I'm sure you know this is all just exchanging of ideas. But moving along, this has become all about Jacksonville. This is for everyone, not just us. So sorry all of you not from Jax!
Amber
Jax, FL USA - Friday, July 28, 2000 at 08:09:31 (PDT)

Sophia, I have also heard of Seeds of Peace. I am as well many Detroit Youth Group members are involved with the program. We have been to gatherings with Arabic and Jewish kids from different cities in Michigan for 2-3 years, and every year we meet an Arabic and a Jewish youth from the blad who is involved with Seeds of Peace back home. I was very impressed with the program and would love to one day join it and would recommend that all our Ramallah Youth get atleast familiar with the program somehow. Let me know if u have any questions about it, I only talk to u like everyday so I'm pretty sure it will come up in one of our many conversations. Anyways, To the Florida Convention committee, I would like to know when and how we can receive a tape of the Florida convention if there is one. Please let me know as soon as the information is known. Shouts out ot my girls, Lorrrrrrrr. Sophiaaaaa, Treeeeee, Mirandaaaaa, and all my family and friends from Michigan. Love u all, BUDTA!!!
Jennifer <PLObudta>
Detroit, MI USA - Friday, July 28, 2000 at 07:33:20 (PDT)

ok i would just like to say to no name provided that some of us that had those idea are not even old enough to pay dues. my parents pay their dues on time and my mom has been attending meetings lately. so do not criticize everyone. i know once i am old enough i will start paying my dues towards the club. there may be a few people that do not like to pay but please do not include everyone in your comments. thanks- sommer
Sommer Farhat <Arabactress@aol.com>
jax, fl USA - Friday, July 28, 2000 at 06:43:31 (PDT)

Look, if the Ramallah Club called me and said,"Hey Lizz we have this great idea...we want to put in a pool...or a gym....or (insert youth-oriented idea here)..." then I would be all for it and I would pitch in as much money as I could...but right now I am not hearing anything....all I see is men playing cards in the little hall at the Club...and every once in a while there is a hafla....big deal...when I see them trying to make an effort to DO something, I will put my money in...I am 100% for the betterment of the Club, but so far I don't see any effort being made....ANYWAY it is 1:42 a.m. and I am going to bed...I think this will be my last entry in the Guestbook...too much to be said and it can't all fit here. So if anyone wants to discuss something with me feel free to email me, ok? Love to all....
Lizzie <XterraGirlX@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Thursday, July 27, 2000 at 22:42:07 (PDT)

I happen to agree with Deena Bateh. I have volunteered for the Jax. community through organizations such as Claire White, and YWCA. I have found these activities to be rewarding. Being able to share this experience with other memebers of my arab community would be an added plus. But let's not forget how the Ramallah Club of Jacksonville provides dinner for the less fortunate every Thanksgiving. I have seen the youth there and could not help but be impressed by their selflessness. Furthermore, our community already provides a family atmosphere where we are fortunate enough not to always need outside help. We should use our fortune and our knowledge to help others in need. In addition, I must add education will be the key to our socialization for a strong Arab community. Keep up the positive outlook on our future. :)
Cherish
Jacksonville, FL USA - Thursday, July 27, 2000 at 22:05:25 (PDT)

TO WHOEVER THAT WAS THAT LEFT NO NAME FROM JACKSONVILLE---Your sarcastic comment of "OVER ACHIEVERS" and PATTING ON THE BACK is completely insulting in the way you put it and was absolutely uncalled for. I'm not going to defend people's suggestions of putting a pool, a library, etc. nor am I going to defend my comments to someone who is so obviously close minded to see that maybe PEOPLE WOULD PAY DUES IF THEY WERE GETTING SOMETHING IN RETURN. That's the problem the clubs have these days. They want to establish and maintain membership but they have no plan of giving something in return, hence the suggestions recently made in this guestbook. They'll get up in a panel discussion format and ask people's opinions on things but don't implement one thing they hear. CAN YOU "STOP FOR A MINUTE AND THINK" that maybe the suggestions for a pool and library ALSO included a plan of how to raise $$$ for them??? THINK BEFORE YOU TALK AND MAYBE THEN YOU'LL APPRECIATE PEOPLE (as you put it) "TRYING TO SOUND INTELLEGENT AND INNOVATIVE" and won't show your own ignorance.
Lena Eadeh <Lena0511@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Thursday, July 27, 2000 at 20:53:26 (PDT)

I would like to say whats up to my girls in Jacksonville!!! I would also like to say whats up to the cute guys at the convention just to name a few Jordan from Mi, Rashad from Hou, Issa from Mi, and MITRI!!!! (I forgot where he is from) THERE WAS PLENTY MORE!!!!!!!!
Cute girl
USA - Thursday, July 27, 2000 at 20:09:47 (PDT)

Ramallah is the best place
Hello
USA - Thursday, July 27, 2000 at 20:06:28 (PDT)

Can some of you "over acheivers" just stop for a minute and think about what your saying? Libraries, Pools, etc..Do you honestly think your local Ramallah club has the sufficient funds to SUPPLY those wonderful things?! If you want more youth functions, for one, we all need to pay our membership dues. Half of the community in Jacksonville are too stingy to do that much! I'm NEVER trying to point the finger but those who are guilty know who they are! How much is a measley membership fee to support your club!??? Lets stop trying to make yourself sound intelligent and innovative with these ideas and open our eyes! Yes, we'd like to have these things but are you willing to pay the down payment on that so called pool you wanted, Ladies??? Or even that gym you want?? Wanna pitch in?? I highly doubt it. Things are expensive. I do believe we can't grow unless we spend a little, but we have to get back to the real issues at hand. Just giving my insight on the issue. I'm not trying to put down someone's ideas. I firmly want the youth to get together more and become closer with each other. But open your eyes. I recognize some of the names of the Jax people that have been making entries and I am just surprised no one can back up their words. Talk is talk, but walk the walk and THEN we'll pat you on the back.
No Name Provided>
Jax, Fla USA - Thursday, July 27, 2000 at 14:36:12 (PDT)

SOPHIA.... Yes I do know about the SEEDS OF PEACE program and I think it is wonderful! I learned about it last year. I just happened to stumble along the web site when I was searching for something and read all about it. I don't know anyone that is going, but please let us know how it goes when it's over.
Lena Eadeh <Lena0511@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Thursday, July 27, 2000 at 09:40:06 (PDT)

LIZZIE.... Your thought process does make sense in terms of implementing the "nice to haves" in order to get the "need to haves" accomplished. But you know how backwards arab can be and sometimes we need to do the reverse. There's ALOT of things running in my head that I want to propose. And it all starts with vision. Where do (the decision making people) at the club see the club going? What is the purpose of it's existence today and what is the purpose of it's existing years from now. Start with the vision, then create a long term plan (3-5 years). Based on the long term plan, create a shorter term plan (1 year) to help in the accomplishements of the long term plan which ultimately will tie back to the vision. BTW... Yes aside from other things, I am also the Strategic Planning Coordinator at ML, so please excuse me sounding like the club is a business but in a sense it should be run that way because without focus, direction, goals, nothing will get accomplished. Maybe the pool idea is part of the longer term plan. In the shorter term, what things can be done (fund raisers,etc.) to help in the accomplishment of that long term plan? Sommer, you're idea is great in terms of the World of Nations. I have my own opinion on that as well. At the World of Nations... Lebanon's booth was on one part of the festival grounds and Syria was way on the other side. It made me so mad because why couldn't they be side by side and have their countries (separated by booths) but united under a "Middle East Section". The Asian countries had all of their booths side by side, the Carribean had their own section together, Africa and Latin countries did too. But that's a whole other issue that I can go on forever about! A mini-Palestinian festival can even be done at the club, where all people in Jax can come and try out foods, see the clothing, purchase items, learn about the culture, etc. This can be a fund raising event for the youth or the club. In terms of the JCA, I personally want to set up a meeting with them and find out how they gained interest, grew and maintained their membership, etc. I can go on for days about my ideas but I've taken up too much time. There are alot of things I know can get done, I just need to take over!! lol VOTE - LENA FOR PRESIDENT!! LOLOL What is membership and involvement like at the clubs in other cities???????
Lena Eadeh <Lena0511@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Thursday, July 27, 2000 at 09:33:03 (PDT)

Lizzie, I thought that last entry of yours was very insightful. We need fellowship before we can all seriously discuss issues together and begin to do something about them. When our elders ask us what they can do to make our youth stronger, it seems they consider it a given that "no money can be involved" is tacked on at the end. To be fair to them though, they are from a different generation and what a swimming pool or a gym means to us, it does not mean to them. They don't consider these things places that could bring fellowship, so they can't understand how they would serve that purpose for us, and therefore see it pointless to invest money in it. When our elders ask us what they can do for us, they should try and understand it doesn't necessarily mean we are going to give an answer they can relate to. How can it be with the decades that lie between us? I think we as youth try our hardest to be patient and understanding of our elders in the community, and I beleive for anything to be accomplished they are going to have to do the same for us, and realize that just because an idea doesn't spark a lightbulb to them, doesn't mean it can't do great things for us.
Amber <Ambs81@aol.com>
Jax, FL USA - Thursday, July 27, 2000 at 06:45:05 (PDT)

Sophia, I've been to one Seeds of Peace camp it is the best experience you can have. My cousin was a director at the camp (but I don't know if he still is). Anyhow, the camp is tons of fun, however, if you are over the age of 18 you may want to attend as a counselor. You can email me if you want more information.
Sammy S. <seshsh@unf.edu>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Thursday, July 27, 2000 at 05:32:18 (PDT)

I JUST WANTED TO SAY WHAZZZZZZZAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AND A SHOUT OUT AND YA KNOW WHO YA ARE.SEE YA IN CALI!
RASHAD ZAYED <BABYR0ME0@AOL.COM>
HOUSTON, TX USA - Wednesday, July 26, 2000 at 23:18:13 (PDT)

People here have talked about the pool idea but they said insurance is tres, tres, cher! But things start as ideas. We have/had a youth group here in detroit but now it seems that everyone that was in it is in college now......so people need to focus more on getting the 13 and 14 year olds involved. Good luck on starting your youth group...and if you need ideas email me i can let you know some stuff we did here and get you some contacts also....Hope everyone is having a good summer..
Nadia <Nads109@aol.com>
livonia, mi USA - Wednesday, July 26, 2000 at 22:44:29 (PDT)

How to get the youth more involved? I'm glad we have found a productive topic. After thoroughly reading the lasts comments...I thought I would share my thoughts and ideas. After reading about the library in every clubhouse idea as stated in the HR magazine, I found that idea to be rather intriguing. Although it will take some time to get started, I'm confident it will be well worth all the efforts. These libraries will act as "the story teller" to all future generations who may not have a grandparent around to talk about all the stories most of us have been graced with. I agree with Lizz... there defiantly needs to be something to draw the youth in. I know other clubs do not face this problem but to give the rest of you some background info. Jax. has had a problem starting and maintaining a consistent youth group. However, I do not think trying to compete with the country clubs is the right way to approach the task at hand. We are all to comfortable in our own gyms, pools, beach clubs and what not to decide to come to the Ramallah club instead. There are just too many alternatives. The money that could be used, just wouldn't satisfy us. I know this sounds bad...but just think about it. We are so used to our own gyms, country clubs, beaches. All of these are money making businesses. The Ramallah Club is not. It wasn't meant to be and never will. Sure we can add a pool with the money we have. But it won't measure up to the pools some are used to. Sure we can add a work out facility. But don't count on having kickboxing classes. Forget the Sauna, steam room, state-of-the-art Treadmills, Pre-cores and Stair Masters. The money put into all of this STILL won't add up to what we are so comfortable with already, leaving the club deserted...once again. We have a hard enough time getting a full attendance at our picnics held throughout the year...I can't imagine making sure these "wants" are being used enough to put a lot of money into them. The Jewish Center in town is a money making business and is able to have sufficient facilities that are used because of this... our club is not and can't really be compared to it. I think the youth will get more involved once they notice the Tatas stop making the Hashwa. No but for real, I think a great way to get the youth involved is to do a project which will require all of their help, and something that will bond them all together...something they can all relate to and go back to for memories or a good laugh. Why not get the youth together and Build a house for Habijax - a service in Jax. that gets groups together to build homes for those in need. Something like this...with substance and that will take some hard work, dedication, and commitment..is what it is going to take for the youth to really bond together. Service to others is key. Not to prove to the city what the Ramallah Club is all about...but to prove to each other what they can accomplish together and what they can do for others. This is also something that that all ages can participate in. It seems like the Michigan youth group is always doing service projects and it seems like their group is fairly strong and active. Service projects such as going to a soup kitchen or buying groceries for the elderly should be a consistent activity of the youth group as should social functions and outings. These are just my suggestions and I'd love to hear others. I'm sorry this was so long.
Deena Bateh <Sharaka145@aol.com>
Jacksonville, Fl USA - Wednesday, July 26, 2000 at 19:38:15 (PDT)

OK THIS MESSAGE IS FOR THE PERSON WHO WROTE ABOUT HOUSTON, CHICAGO, AND DETROIT GUYS. I BELIEVE THAT THE PERSON WHO WROTE IT WAS A FEMALE. AND ANOTHER THING HOUSTON IS SPELLED THIS WAY. MY NAME IS JAWAD ZANAYED AND I AM FROM HOUSTON. NOW IN HOUSTON WE TREAT EACH OTHER LIKE WE ARE FAMILY. WE HANG OUT ALL THE TIME. WE ARE NOT GANG MEMBERS. HARRRRRRAM. DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM. I HAVE BEEN TO 19 CONVENTIONS AND I AM ONLY 25. I HAVE DIFFERENT FRIENDS FROM EVERY CITY. I HANG OUT WITH ALL OF THEM. JUST BECAUSE YOU WANT TO HANG WITH US DOES NOT GUARANTEE YOU WILL BE LET IN THE GROUP. TO BE IN THIS GROUP YOU MUST BE KOOL. HARAM YOUR NOT KOOL. TO BAD, ONLY PEOPLE WITH GOOD SOCIAL SKILLS AND GOOD LOOKS CAN GET INTO THIS GROUP. WE ARE NOT A GANG BUT I AM THE LEADER. YOU MESSED WITH THE WRONG CITY. I DID NOT SEE YOUR NAME WRITTEN. IF YOUR GONNA TALK BAD ABOUT OTHER PEOPLE THEN I WANT A NAME. NO I AM GONNA GIVE YOU A NAME. YOUR NEW NAME IS "HARAM WHO AM I". I AM NOT GONNA COMMENT ABOUT THE DETROIT OR CHICAGO GUYS BECAUSE THOSE GUYS ARE GOOD GUYS. I AM BIASED BECAUSE I AM FROM HOUSTON. BUT I WILL TELL YOU SOMETHING. ASK ANYONE WHO WENT TO ORLANDO AND HAD FUN WHAT THEY THOUGHT ABOUT THE HOUSTON MEN. DONT INCLUDE YOURSELF BECAUSE YOU DID NOT HAVE FUN. HARAM DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM. I AM HIM. THE MAN, THE MYTH. IF YOU NEED A FRIEND JUST SEND ME A EMAIL. I AM BBADMAN4. CALL ME BADMAN. HOUSTON GUYS ARE MY COUSINS AND MY BOYS. WE ARE NOT A GANG. HARAM WE ARE PLO FOR LIFE. WE ARE ALL COUSINS HERE. I LOVE EVERYONE ONE OF YOU. IN ALL THE CITY'S FROM FRISCO TO TENNESSEE TO FLORIDA. I LOVE ALL OF YOU. BADMAN MUST LEAVE RIGHT NOW. BADMAN AND HOUSTON RULE.
JAWAD ZANAYED <BBADMAN4@AOL.COM>
HOUSTON , TX USA - Wednesday, July 26, 2000 at 17:26:14 (PDT)

LENA...hey girl...love the library idea...but I think that in order to get all the young people involved (which I think are the key to this whole idea...) you need to get them TOGETHER more...MORE involved...and I know we don't mean to be but a lot of us are lazy....we all want to keep our culture alive...but my opinion is that without the "nice to haves" the "need to haves" won't come into existence....think about it...if you want to have meetings about a certain project...want to get to know people involved....want to assign certain jobs to those people to get the job done...don't we need to get them together first?? Don't you think forming a Ramallah Club in every town that is a haven for the youth that they will get more involved? For example, if we put a swimming pool at the Ramallah Club in our city, more and more youth would come to "hang out"...then you get the smart ones talking (LOL) and everyone else will be like,"Yeah good idea let's do it!!!" SO first there is the friendship, then an alliance, then they fight for the same objective together, right???? I believe that you can't get anything done if the people aren't informed...and building a safe haven for our youth can be a platform for both having fun together and exchanging information for the sake of education.....ya know what I'm sayin'?? Like at the convention the convention committee was in a meeting, and me and three other young people joined in to see what was going on...and they MADE us get up and share our ideas on how to get the youth more involved...and I said,"Have more youth functions and during the function ask our opinions about things, or have a meeting before a function....blah blah..." and one girl said,"Let's make the Club a place for the youth to hang out, like add a swimming pool or gym...to get us more involved...." and the head speaker goes,"Yeah, we'll put in a 13-hole golf course..." and he was very sarcastic...and it made us all think,"Ok we are the youth and they asked for our opinion and they mocked us..." so we left the meeting....ANYWAY...I am rambling....but point is that the Jewish Community Center does a lot for their people here in Jacksonville...why the hell can't the Ramallah Club be just as big???? I just don't think the older people are willing to make sacrifices for the advancement of our cause...I just dont think anyone wants to spend the money....that's my opinion...so PEACE OUT YALL....WORD TO THA MOTHA...
Miss Lizzie <XterraGirlX@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Wednesday, July 26, 2000 at 12:01:25 (PDT)

Lena and Faten I agree with you both. We do need to get more involved. Like I have a suggestion.. You know the world of nations festival we have here every year? Why not have a booth for palestine?? and sell stuff, have some of us dance I mean there is always a booth for syria why not us? it will get the young more involved with our culture and more proud of who we are. it will also let other people understand palestinians instead of always stereotyping us according to what they hear and see on tv and the news. They will realize what a beautiful culture we have and what wonderful people we are. I know for a fact I love going to that festival and I would volunteer to work there. I wait every year for that festival to come. OOOOh, and Jordan, next time tell me that it is you before I get mean LOL. and Melinda he is a very sweet guy. I just wasn't happy with the comment he made. But everyone can have an opinion and i respect that . =) (hey liz u will be happy no mistakes in this one!! lol )
Sommer Farhat <arabactress@aol.com>
jacksonville, fl USA - Wednesday, July 26, 2000 at 07:11:15 (PDT)

I would like to say how wonderful it was to see all of our youth together having a wonderful time. So many wonderful friendships start off at these conventions and strengthen over the years. Much love to everyone and may God bless all of you! Sally Salem
Sally Salem <Saha07@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Wednesday, July 26, 2000 at 05:28:09 (PDT)

WELL, SINCE WE ARE TALKING ABOUT IDEAS FOR THE ARABIC COMMUNITY. I WAS THINKING OF SOMETHING.THIS IS TO ALL THE JACKSONVILLE PEOPLE. I KNOW WE HAVE TRIED IN THE PAST TO HAVE A "RAMALLAH CLUB YOUTH GROUP", BUT THEY WERE PEOPLE THAT DIDN'T WANT THE YOUTH TO BE INVOLVED WITH THE OLDER ONES.MY FAMILY WAS TELLING ME WHEN THEY HAD A YOUTH GROUP THE AGES IN THE GROUP WERE VARIED FROM BEGINING TEEN TO 21 YRS. OF AGE. I REALLY THINK WE SHOULD TRY HARDER TO BRING THIS UP IF YOU GUYS ARE SITTING HERE TALKING ABOUT WE NEED A STRONGER FELLOWSHIP WITHIN THE YOUTH. IM 17 YRS.OLD AND I PERSONALLY DON'T UNDERSTAND WHAT THE BIG DEAL IS TO BLEND AGES,ISN'T THAT WHAT FELLOWSHIP IS ALL ABOUT? BY HAVING A FELLOWSHIP WE CAN DO VARIOUS THINGS FOR THE RAMALLAH CLUB. FOR EXAMPLE,WE CAN DO FUNDRAISERS AND DO COMMUNITY SERVICE SO WE CAN SHOW OUR COMMUNITY WHAT THE RAMALLAH AMERICAN CLUB IS ALL ABOUT.I KNOW THIS IS LONG BUT THANKS FOR YOUR TIME. AND JACKSONVILLE PEOPLE LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK. DALZ
Dalia Mousa <DALEYA@aol.com>
JACKSONVILLE, FL USA - Wednesday, July 26, 2000 at 00:42:25 (PDT)

does anyone know anything about SEEDS OF PEACE camp? my little tublah boy fufu went yesturday, & he is up in Maine with hundreds of palestinian & israeli kids. i think the website is SEEDSOFPEACE.COM (i cant check it now cuz i am trying to type this entry.. lol) but it is supposed to be very interesting in uniting the youth of palestinians & israeli kids, throughout 3 weeks of camp. they come back describing issues they delt with & what their experience was like. does anybody know anyone going? hopefully i'll hear from people who know something about this wonderful program. im just glad they shipped fuad off for 3 whole weeks, haha jk =) i know tuntoonie, my babygirl & all his chicks will miss him... lol let me know if anyone knows about the program though, thanks!!
Sophia <CUZuNOthis@aol.com>
Great Falls, VA - Wednesday, July 26, 2000 at 00:10:05 (PDT)

HELLO EVERYONE...JUST WANTED TO GET SOME FAN SUPPORT...ILL BE IN A MOVIE COMING OUT THIS LATE FALL IN A THEATER NEAR YOU...ITS A BOOTCAMP MOVIE AND JOEL SCHUMACHER WAS THE DIRECTOR...HE DID FEW BATMAN MOVIES, A TIME TO KILL, FLAWLESS, AND MORE....SO I WOULD LIKE ALL OF YALL TO GO AND SEE IT WHEN IT COMES OUT...I ALSO MIGHT BE IN A CBS MOVIE THAT WILL BE SHOT HERE IN FLORIDA IN LATE AUGUST TIL END OF SEPT...HOPING MY WORK SCHEDULE CAN DEAL WITH IT....BUT I JUST WANTED TO GET SOME FAN SUPPORT FOR A YOUNG ARAB ACTOR...AND LOOK FOR ME IN COMMERCIALS TO COME....TALK TO YALL LATER.....THE NEXT OMAR SHARIF.....ISSA.....4321
ISSA <ALLDAY048@AOL.COM>
JVILLE, FL USA - Tuesday, July 25, 2000 at 19:34:42 (PDT)

FATEN, thanks for putting the notice out to everyone for the Library type concept in the Ramallah Clubs. I have so many ideas of how it could look and what it could contain. This is the first step of many that will instill culture within our clubs. I'm not sure if the people in this message board was at the Debates during the convention but as my Aunt Muna graciously put it, the club shouldn't be about, "can they offer me a work out facility", "can they offer me a pool". Although those ideas are "nice to haves", whats more important is a "need to have" and that is CULTURE. I personally want to get involved with the Jacksonville Ramallah Club to help develop plans of gradually building upon the suggestions that were shared at the convention debates. Let's all do our best in doing this in each of our cities. Together, we can make a difference for the future! VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME, YOUR RESOURCES, YOUR MONEY... Whatever it takes just GET INVOLVED.
Lena Eadeh <Lena0511@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, July 25, 2000 at 09:30:47 (PDT)

OHHHHH HOOOOOOOO ok everyone quit complaining about what this one said and that one said.... KHALAS!! EVERYONE LOVE EACH OTHER!!
Lena Eadeh <Lena0511@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, July 25, 2000 at 09:19:13 (PDT)

ohhhhhhhhhhh hoooooooo ok everyone enough complaining about what this person said and that person said.... KHALAS! LET'S ALL BE IN PEACE AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER.
Lena Eadeh <Lena0511@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, July 25, 2000 at 06:30:28 (PDT)

Melinda. K. I am not insecure about my comments at all. I just know our people, and instead of understaing why I say what I say you all would scream and yell. And FYI the nice guy from Michigan that Sommer Farhat met was me. So I am a nice guy. And even ask her. Infact on the last night I met a bunch of guys sitting on the couches by the stairs on the first floor from Houston and I was like wassssup. And they were like hey. And I got like a cold feeling from them. And I was like why didn't we hang out. And they were like not very responsive so I was like screw it. I am not going to try to be nice. So I do have first hand expierence on this. Now I am not condemming anyone. I just thought the whole encounter was rude. But it is all good. Spread the Ramallah love. PEEEACE!!!
Jordan (Does it really matter???) <Pstnprince@aol.com>
Detroit, Mi USA - Monday, July 24, 2000 at 22:37:48 (PDT)

No offense is meant from my comments, but I myself took offense to the one submitted by the "does it matter" person from michigan that obviously wasn't to confident in the remark to leave their name...it's not good to generalize people...just because Houston had over 400 people at the Florida convention..we couldn't help but be with each other. That's not to say that we didn't mingle with others..I'll have you know most of our time was spent with out of town friends as well as our Houston cousins...if you would refer back to many of the last entries...you would see many people from all DIFFERENT states saying hi to their friends in Houston, Detroit and Chicago. Seeing as though you are from Detroit yourself..why would you be insulting your own cousins?? One question for you, if you think we are so clickish, tell me how many times you approached someone from Houston and we turned our faces at you??? I can't speak for everyone, maybe we're not all outgoing all the time when we meet new people, but then again who is? All I know is if someone comes to us to say what's up...most of us certainly go out of our way to make them feel comfotable, and I think most people that know us will agree. I'm not generalizing everyone in these cities, and saying we're all perfect people, but I am giving credit where credit is due. We certainly dont walk around intending to look like a gang..come on now for real...We all love to meet new people and have a good time, and we seem to accomplish that every year, as I hope you also do...but if you have a problem with unity among cousins and friends...maybe you shouldn't attend the conventions!!!
Melinda <mstar76@aol.com>
Sugar Land, TX USA - Monday, July 24, 2000 at 16:23:18 (PDT)

My name is Pete Khalaf. All of my uncles and cousins live in Ramallah. I recently was there myself. It would be nice to hear from all.
Peter E. Khalaf <KhalafP@cder.fda.gov>
SilverSpring, MD USA - Monday, July 24, 2000 at 12:46:42 (PDT)

Once again, to end all of this discussion, I want to apologize. Everyword that was said about the little kids was all sarcasim, and it was said by others on here as well. Thank you to whoever that was! I am like that all the time, my ''usual'' self and didn't mean to harm any mother of any child. That is the problem with AOL, it changes things around because you are not hearing things being said. And all of the entry where all of that sarcasm was stated, i was goofing off, so i figured that everyone would take it as a joke. I didn't write it to get compliments for me to feed off of. I hope everyone can forget about all of this and understand it was a joke. HAHA FUNNY FUNNY LAUGH LAUGH. Once again I apologize. Very upset this was taken the wrong way by family as well as friends, Amanda Mousa
Just trying to end all of this.. <Isitalloveryet?@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Monday, July 24, 2000 at 10:13:42 (PDT)

i would like to talk about something that sparks an interest to me. as you all may have read in the Hathihe Ramallah, Detroit is trying to put together a few local libraries in their town for people to read of the Ramallah people achievements and putting together a display to document the history of the people of that town. i cant really remember all that was said but if you all would take the time to look at it, its on page 1 in the editorial section. my cousins and I were talking about how great that would be for the youth and for our town. Lena, I must say that you are a genious! I just hope that yall dont take it as just a talking matter and actually help and try to do something about this. it would be so cool to have something like this. and i know that yall agree! I agree with Desert Diva, there will be no more Ramallah after a while if we keep up the semi-bad job of teaching and loving one another. if we can get some info. from Detroit people that would be great! email me and let me know what yall think thanks a lot for yalls time!
Faten Iwais <AYOONY4@AOL.COM>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Monday, July 24, 2000 at 10:04:14 (PDT)

OOPS! I think I put that they were states LOL I meant cities... I guess when u are mad u do not think. Sorry for my ignorant mistake.
sommer
USA - Monday, July 24, 2000 at 08:00:33 (PDT)

I would just like tÿ make a comment about the person who said the Houston guys and Michigan guys and Chicago guys need to stop looking like a "gang" and that they do not mingle. I for one met the guys from Houston and had the chance to hang out with them and they are some of the sweetest and funniest guys I met. They were wonderful people, and I met some guys from Michigan and Chicago that were open and friendly. Just because they hang with each other just means they are close and in most cases cousins. We people from Jacksonville are always together. So stop with the immature comments. ALL these 3 states ESPECIALLY Houston were the FUNNEST people I hung out with all throughout the convention. So before u bash any more people I would appreciate it if U got the facts straight. Just because they did not talk to YOU. Does not mean they are bad people. Love to michigan ,chicago and the H-town boys!
Sommer Farhat <arabactress@aol.com>
jacksonville, fl USA - Monday, July 24, 2000 at 07:12:50 (PDT)

AMANDA and FELLOW DEBKEH-ers: Appreciate the clarifications on the whole Biladi stuff. I'll admit I really took offense to it because I know how hard those little guys worked. All of you ARE my FAMILY and I also apologize and did not mean to offend anyone as well.(must have been a PMS moment) Again, Both of you made your parents and this community sooo proud and I'm happy to be a part of it. PEACE and LOVE to all of you wonderful kids....keep up the great work! Amanda....you're a good person just like your parents.
A BILADI MOTHER
Jacksonville, FLA USA - Monday, July 24, 2000 at 06:11:53 (PDT)

Hey just wanted to say wuz up to all my peeps in Jacksonville and my boyz in room 269! The convention rocked and hope to do it again next year. Special shot out to Jimmy & Farhat Bakery, the best pita bread in the world,Lizz,Raja, Saliba, Nick, Abe, Steven, Jeff, Jamil, Salem,Esa, Ray, Christine, Sommer, Chris, Eddie, Wolly, Sammy, Faris, Joe, Jack, Jenny, Frieda, Fatten, Julie, Jessica, Sandra, Salem, Angie, Faten, Jennifer, Andrea, Sam,Sabouh, Moose, Mo, Arabi,Amanda, Robert and finally my girl VALERIE! THIS IS THE TRUE JACKSONVILLE CREW!!!!!!
JF ( Soprano)
Jacksonville, FL USA - Sunday, July 23, 2000 at 18:58:23 (PDT)

Hey Everyone, I just wanted to say that i heard the convention was great from all my michiganers and all my belles in jax. To all my Jax people and cousins I love you all.(dee- i will see you up here soon) TO all of you in michigan...i will miss you all when I go to MSU! =( TO all the girls in livonia...."WHERE MY GIRLS AT?" JANAN, THE TWINS AND THE IDEHS....I AM BRING EXTRA BLANKETS..LOVE YA ALL..Nadia
Nadia Shahin <Nads109@aol.com>
Livonia, MI USA - Sunday, July 23, 2000 at 13:57:37 (PDT)

DEAR BILADI MOM, EVERYWORD THAT WAS SAID ABOUT ME AND THE DEBKA GROUP WORKING 10X HARDER THAN THE LITTLE KIDA WAS ALL A JOKE. TEAZING EVERY BIT OF IT WAS TEAZING. AND IF I OFFENDED ANYONE I AM SORRY FOR IT. IN MY PERSONAL OPINION..THE 6 AND 7 YEAR OLDS DID 10X BETTER OF A JOB AT SINGING THAN WE DID. AND IM SURE THAT ANYONE AT THE CONVENTION COULD AGREE WITH ME. FOR EVERYONES INFO, I AM NOT IN COMPETITION WITH A BUNCH OF 6 AND 7 YEAR OLDS. I WAS JUST TEAZING AND TRYING TO BE FUNNY. WE ALL KNOW THEY DID A WONDERFUL JOB. I DIDNT WRITE THAT HOPING EVERYONE WOULD WRITE BACK SAYING AMANDA, SOMMER, MIRANDA, ETC. YALL DID GREAT. THAT IS NOT WHAT I WANTED. I WANTED TO MAKE A JOKE, AND IT DID NOT MEAN TO OFFEND ANYONE, EVEN THE CHILDRENS PARENTS, ONCE AGAIN I APOLOGIZE.
AMANDA MOUSA
JACKSONVILLE, FL USA - Sunday, July 23, 2000 at 12:47:54 (PDT)

READ THIS EVERYONE!!!! So yeah. Enough shout outs. Enough with the reality that we are astounding ourselves by telling ourselves that we as a group are the only group. I think J.S. had a point but went on an unclassy way of presenting it. Amal and Hanan. Tru dat. That was uncalled for. BUT....there is always a but with me. Our youth do have a problem with proving themselves. I am going to be very very frank and point fingers. The three major cities with all the guys, (Detroit, Chicago and of course, the best for last...Housten) all have problems with this. They are very clicky at the convetnions. Rarely do the migrate within each other. I am sure you all see this. They feel that as a "posse" they need to stay together and put on a show for everyone. And frankly that is a lil on the GANGISH side. And note I did not use any racially motivated comments. But the point is STOP GETTING ON YOUR GANG CLICK HOUSTON DETRIT AND CHICAGO!!!!!!!!! And grow up.
Does it matter????
Detroit, Mi USA - Saturday, July 22, 2000 at 23:05:12 (PDT)

EASY COWBOYS AND COWGIRLS...TAKE IT EASY WITH THE COMENTS. Most of us are pretty close kin anyways, so we shouldnt be making rude coments towards our fellow kin. Just sit back, relax, put on some classic country, like some George Jones, or some Tammy Wynette, pop open a Budweiser or a Busch, and enjoy your fellow kin. B/c when it all comes down to it, your friends will be there 80% of the time, but your KIN will be there forever. This message is brought to you from your friends at United States Tobacco Company and NASCAR.
Mike "Dale Earnhardt #3" Mousa <moose1128@aol.com>
fl USA - Saturday, July 22, 2000 at 21:22:37 (PDT)

I agree with what you said "Biladi Mom" . THe kids did absolutely WONDERFUL singing that song!!! But I do have to say one thing in Amanda Mousa's defense. She is just being sarcastic. You shouldn't become so defensive and tell her to grow up. She's just being silly, and thats her usual self. She, in no way, was criticizing or expensing complements against the children. That's just her way of joking around. If your a mother, then you should be understanding of this situation and calm down. SHe meant no harm, and neither does anyone else on here. Both groups did a wonderful job! Much love to everyone in Jacksonville.
A Debka Dancer
jacksonville, fla USA - Saturday, July 22, 2000 at 20:07:16 (PDT)

I watched both dabki and children sing the Palestinian National Anthem. I applaud each group for their efforts. It was very obvious that both groups worked EQUALLY hard at their performances. Lay off the young kids and be proud of them.
A Jacksonville Observer
Jacksonville, FL USA - Saturday, July 22, 2000 at 19:55:31 (PDT)

Yo, wanna give a shout out....just kidding, I'm not going there. I agree it's nice to bond with fellow Palestinians especially after convention, except, what are you all gonna do when you are busy partying here and not paying attention to the real issue back home? At the rate we're going, there won't be a ramallah anymore...can you see it now? you go to jacksonville, san francisco whatever, and you're all gonna be saying, wow, that ramallah was such a great place, too bad it doesn't exist anymore. It's important to support each other here in america, but there won't be anything to celebrate 10 years from now. The ramallah convention will be meaningless! Anyone down for brainstorming on how to make this a better convention next year? I'm working on SFs convention, so let me know....from what I hear, this year it was more like a showgirl convention, and we can all go to vegas for that! Let's make this thing REAL! Peace out, Desert Diva
Desert Diva <Desert_diva@hotmail.com>
USA - Saturday, July 22, 2000 at 19:10:59 (PDT)

BILADI MOM.....I AM ONE OF THE MEMBERS OF THE DEBKE GROUP...AND IN MY OPINION WE DID A GREAT JOB..BUT...THOSE KIDS DID A JOB 10XXXX BETTER THAN WE DID....THOSE KIDS WERE GIVEN A HARD TASK TO PERFORM AND COMPLETED IT RATHER WELL..AND THE DID A WONDERFUL JOB OF IT....AND I WAS ALSO PROUD OF THEM...THE DEBKE GROUP DID AN AWESOME JOB AS WELL AND I FOR ONE RECIEVED PROPS FROM A LOT OF PEOPLE...EVEN THE DAY AFTER AND EVEN HERE IN JAX...PEACE...ALLDAY
ISSA <ALLDAY048@AOL.COM>
JVILLE, FL USA - Saturday, July 22, 2000 at 14:07:12 (PDT)

Sorry about the last comment, it was duplicated twice...Hey you guys don't make it easy to check over what you write........It should have been deleted...Love these computers.....
A Biladi relative
jacksonville, fl USA - Saturday, July 22, 2000 at 13:29:18 (PDT)

Amanda honey what r u talkin about? We have gotten SO much recognition for our hard work. At the convention, thats all I heard,"dalia u guys did so good". We need to give the little kids recognition. After they all said all those hard words to the Biladi song that i know noone in our troop would not beable to say...HAHA. Half the kids in that group, r my cousins. So I luv it when they recognize them. because they r my cousins. And im so proud of them! GOOD JOB GUYS!!...amanda baby dont be mad. u know I luv u.You r my gurl! i just wanted to let u know we dont have to have the spotlight on us all the time. It's time for the little kids to shine. So people will know that the young children actually know their roots and not forgotten where they came from. PROUD OF THE BILADI TROOP.=) dalz
dALIA <DALEYA@AOL.COM>
JACKSONVILLE, FL USA - Saturday, July 22, 2000 at 13:27:12 (PDT)

Amanda, What is up with the comments????? Girl I know your Mama taught you right!!! God knows I love her...Let me just say this, When I saw the Debkeh group on friday I had tears in my eyes, BUT when I saw the kids singing Baladi and walking through the room with the flag you know what happended to me.....I was so proud and so elated that I could not speak but only smile. Maybe if we start within ourselves and be positive,just maybe it could be the difference with alot of our problems within our community and the arab world...Be positive always...Being negative is so ugly and I know you are a beautiful person inside.... and proudest smile on my face!!!!
A Biladi relative
jacksonville, fl USA - Saturday, July 22, 2000 at 13:24:49 (PDT)

AMANDA MOUSA....In responce to the CHEAP SHOT you took at those young Jax children that sang "BILADI", We didn't realize that you were in competition with 6 and 7 yr olds!!It truly bewildered me that you took such offense to other people complimenting these kids. We were very proud of BOTH groups and felt like BOTH groups represented our city and made the community proud. We didn't realize that any compliments those children recieved were at the debkeh group's expense. We complimented you as well. Just because WE managed to get the props we needed,and you couldn't, shouldn't entitle you to insulting these Jax children AND the mothers that worked with them or "claim" that you worked 10X harder than they did. It's dissapointing to know that "one of our own" Jax girls would insult their own. You want MORE recognition....YOU WERE GREAT and so were they. Feel better...? GROW UP AMANDA
A BILADI MOTHER
JAX, FL USA - Saturday, July 22, 2000 at 08:21:25 (PDT)

JS... I'd like to ask that you please read my entry on July 20th (scroll down please). I have yet to hear from anyone (you) as to a topic you'd like to recommend for discussion in lieu of "talking like illiterate abeed". Should arab "etiquette" be the topic you'd like to discuss? I'm curious to see what people (you)have to say about that. I personally am not taking any of this defensively because #1 I'm not as young as some of the people making these entries, #2 I know how to speak appropriately, and #3 I'm not trying to prove how "classy" I am by writing in this message board. Many of the people writing here are rather young, but regardless of age, they are having a good time (please read my July 20th entry thoroughly). In your message you talk about loss of values, customs and there's that word again... "overall etiquette". It would also be interesting to hear specifics on how these 3 perspecitives should be and how they've been lost. Another thing you mention is "new American-born generation have no idea how to act or behave among their own people". I would also find "act"ing and behaving interesting for further discussion. Again, I don't want to come across defensively, I do however want to know more about what you're criticizing and a topic you recommend we focus on next.
Lena Eadeh <stillwaitingforatopic@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Friday, July 21, 2000 at 23:15:06 (PDT)

HeY hEy HeY!!! Sorry Ibrahim, my bad!!! This is a GHETTO SHOUT OUT to one of my favorite guys in Houston.. Ibrahim Elias Khawaja!!!! I'm glad me, you and Janan are tight this yr! :-) Oh wait,before I forget let me give another GHETTO SHOUT OUT to Ibrahims sister Fatyn, hey girl what's up!!! Everyone up here in Michigan what's up "especially you JACKAY
Tina Shukeireh <Tuntoonie@hotmail.com>
Livonia, MI USA - Friday, July 21, 2000 at 14:02:18 (PDT)

Hummm okay... Calm down ya' ARAB!!!!!! We are all cousinsss uffff let's not argue!! and Laura that's just how some arabs are and you can't change that habitti no matter HOW MUCH YOU TRY!!! so, not to be rude or anything but ur goin to have to GET OVER ITTTTTT!!! ya feel me??? lool ... Well ARABS let's stop arguin and BE COUSINSSS!!! Yullah Much Lovee... ~BabyGirl~
Sandi <LexBabyGirl@aol.com>
Lexington , KY USA - Friday, July 21, 2000 at 13:35:32 (PDT)

Let me just say how deeply sorry I am for not '' shouting out'' to my cousins Jimmy and Mike..and to my Favorite brother..NICKI...Stuff happens right? I hope you can find it in your hearts to forgive me. =) Jimmy I hope u can still be my favorite cousin!!!! On dads side..LOLOL Peace out Yall
Amanda <trickinaintez@aol.com>
jacksonville , fl USA - Friday, July 21, 2000 at 12:52:34 (PDT)

i want to apologize about my message being printed twice. my computer crashed and i did not realize it printed twice. sorry
sommer farhat <arabactress@aol.com>
jacksonville, fl USA - Friday, July 21, 2000 at 12:34:35 (PDT)

CUZ U GUYS KNOWWWW I LOVE EVERY ONE OF U GUYS!! SORRY I FORGOT A FEW OF MY FAV PEOPLE, BUT U SHOULD KNOW THIS- MY PORCELION DOLL, MIKEY, MY BABE MIMI, IBRAHIM & THE SWOLE BOYS, MY SUM SUM & SHAKA QUEEN DEENA, MY AMBS & 7 1/2 CUZ JIHAN- WE REPRESENT VA BABY. & I LIKE TO SEE A LITTLE MORE OF THIS EMAIL KEEPING IN TOUCHHH... BUT NOW TO MORE IMPORTANT ISSUES IN THE WORLD..LOL.. OK I WILL LET SOMEONE TAKE OVER NOW!! BUT U KNOW WHEN THE BALL GETS ROLLING ON THESE HARD CORE ISSUES PEOPLE ARE COMPLAINING ABOUT NOT BEING DISCUSSED, I WILL COMMENT JUST AS MUCH- I AGREE WITH AMAL & HANAN, WERE NOT STOPPING ANYBODY FROM DISCUSSING THEM BUT IF YOUR GOING TO BE THE ONE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT IT- BE THE ONE WHO INITIATES A GOOD DEBATE OR DISCUSSION! I CANT WAIT TO SEE WHAT ISSUE IS GOING TO BE BROUGHT UP- BUT UNTIL THEN... GOD BLESS YOU ALL CUZ SMULLAH ALLAH WERE ALL FROM RAMALLAH :) CUZ U KNOW THISSSS.... MAN!!
Sophia Sahouri <CUZuNOthis@aol.com,>
Great Falls, VA - Friday, July 21, 2000 at 11:46:14 (PDT)

Amanda, Amanda, Amanda.... girl, why are you saying stuff about working 10x more than the little ones? You need to scroll down in this message board and see that I and others applauded the debka group a number of times here. Actually I was the only one that ALSO praised the kids singing Baladi... no one else did! So girl, quit trippin' and be proud of the good work you all did and the recognition that's already been given.
Lena Eadeh <Lena0511@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Friday, July 21, 2000 at 09:31:23 (PDT)

I am very happy to hear that everyone who attended the Ramallah convention in Orlando had a great time. In reference to earlier messages on this website, we must really work hard to present a literate and decent image to all readers of this great website. The idea that talking like illiterate abeed is cool seems to concern me the most. After our parents who immigrated here to America, I am personally concerned that we have lost our values, customs, and overall ettiquette. Many (not all) in the new American-born generation have no idea how to act or behave among their own people and it is truly disgusting and stupid to see. Many really need to improve on this if they are ever to be taken seriously. The vocabulary used by many in this website is childish, shallow, and just plain nonsense. I am always with my people and support everyone who goes to Ramallah conventions, but don't go and embarass our community as some seem to always do by words or action. Instead, why don't you keep up on news concerning Palestine and get more involved with Arab organizations since you seem to have so much vocal energy. Keep up with the peace process. Many people in this website really need to get their priorities straight. Just a few words from myself, whether you take them seriously or not, that is totally up to you. Ma'a salama everyone and to the people that stay involved, keep up the great work! Palestine is coming!
J S
Washington, DC USA - Friday, July 21, 2000 at 08:27:42 (PDT)

I truely believe everyone needs to mind their own business and stop callin all our babygirls "ghetto". They can talk however they feel like it.. LOVE YA LOTS YOU GUYS, WE HAD FUN AT THE CONVENTION... MIMI, HOW'S THE NAIL POLISH?? LOL THAT'S OUR LIL SECRET (MIMI, JEN, JANAN, SOPHIA AND MIRANDA LOVE YA LOTSSSSSS BABYGIRLS)!!! JANAN SEE YA IN ABOUT 2 WEEKS UP HERE IN MICHIGAN.. JEN I'LL SEE YOU FOR THE WEDDING.. Can't forget about my two sweeties either.. TARIQ and FUAD.. You two are so sweet thanks for bein there guys...
Tina Shukeireh <Tuntoonie@hotmail.com>
Livonia, MI USA - Friday, July 21, 2000 at 01:03:49 (PDT)

I MUST SAY THAT THE CONVENTION WAS TRUELY A BLAST. i CAUGHT UP WITH SOME OLD FRIENDS AND MADE SOME NEW ONES.. AND SINCE THEY DIDN'T SEEM TO MENTION ME (WHICH I'LL GET YA'LL FOR THAT LATER) I'LL SAY WASS UP TO YA'LL INSTEAD... TO MY GIRLZ SOPHIA, MIRANDA, AND TINA... I LUV YOU GUYS DEARLY THANK YOU FOR A GREAT TIME.... AND OF COURSE ALL MY COUSINS FROM HOUSTON, YA'LL ARE THE BEST... MUCH LUV TO EVERYONE ELSE AND I HOPE TO SEE YA'LL NEXT YEAR IN FRISCO OR MAYBE BEFORE....
MIMI BABA <MIMI13A13A@AOL.COM>
HOUSTON, TX USA - Thursday, July 20, 2000 at 21:19:14 (PDT)

WAZ UP!! HOW IS EVERYONE. WELL TO MY FELLOW DEBKA TROOP PEOPLE IVE BEEN HEARIN GUUUD THINGS ABOUT US. BASICALLY WHAT IM TRYIN TO SAY IS THAT WE WERE THE SHIT!! OKAYYY. I THINK WE SHOULD KEEP IT FOR REAL. I LIKE TO SAY WAZ UP TO ALL MY JVILLE PEEPS! AND ALL MY OUT OF TOWNERS U GUYS KNOW WHO U R!! LUV U ALL! OH AND AMANDA : GURL IM GOIN DOWN DOWN BABYYYY......MY SUGGA!! DALZ =)
DALIA MOUSA <DALEYA@AOL.COM>
JACKSONVILLE, FL USA - Thursday, July 20, 2000 at 19:35:45 (PDT)

i want to give my shout outs to my michiganers.. i love yall....jerry,jamil,esa and salem u r all too cute! jeff.. u will always be my bud for life, trickin u my ghetto cuz.... dals u are catchin up babe lol,shuggah it is all about the sweet stuff... faten i see how it is forgettin about me.. i still love ya. and to my wonderful sister liz (who if anyone messes with u have to mess with me) it is all about the drama queen...lata (in proper english later my friends. )
Sommer Farhat <Arabactress@aol.com>
jacksonville, fl USA - Thursday, July 20, 2000 at 16:51:44 (PDT)

ok... first of all... i see how it is faten forgettin bout me. it's all good though... i am givin my shout outz to my michiganers... i love yall... jerry,jamil,esa and salem.. all of u are too cute! jeff...my buddy , my wonderful sister lizz who if anyone messes with has ME to deal with.. trickin... u my ghetto cuz dals... u r catchin up LOL and shuggah.. it's all about the sweet stuff...and all u other jax peeps i love yall...drama queen is what it is all about!
sommer farhat <arabactress@aol.com>
jacksonville, Fl USA - Thursday, July 20, 2000 at 16:43:43 (PDT)

HARAM---GHETTO? YOU ARE COMPLAINING ABOUT GHETTO??HABIBITY LAURA, LET ME JUST TELL YOU SOMETHING. YOU HAVE NOT SEEN GHETTO UNTIL YOU HAVE MET ME. SO UNTIL I AM FINISHED WITH THIS LETTER UP IN THIS GUESTBOOK, DON'T COMPLAIN!ALSO,SINCE YOU DECIDED TO NOT LEAVE AN EMAIL ADDRESS, ALONG WITH JED, AND JS, AND ALL YALL OTHER PEOPLE, CONSIDER THIS MY PERSONAL MESSAGE TO YOU. WHAT KINDA NAME IS JED NEWAYS? ANYWAYS, NOW FIRST OF ALL I WANT TO ASK A COUPLE OF PEOPLE ( YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE ) WHY YOU SELLOUTS COULDNT GIVE ME A SHOT OUT HUH? YEAH. SELLOUTS. ALL OF YOU . SECOND OFF, I DONT UNDERSTAND WHY NOBODY CAN GIVE PROPS TO DEBKA. YAH KNOW. WE WORKED 10XS MORE THAN THOSE KIDS DID. UMHM. WE SWEATED, AND STARTED TO SMELL LIKE POLO B.O( LOL ISSA ) AND WE ABOUT KILLED OURSELVES TRYING TO LEARN THOSE DANCES. AND NOOO NOBODY COMES UP TO ME TO TELL ME HOW GOOD WE DID.=) THAT'S OKAY THATS OKAY. I UNDERSTAND. SELLOUTS. LOL AND WHAT IS UP WITH THIS SALEM A. GUY SELLING OUT MY COUSIN LIZZIE? AS A MATTER OF FACT. SHE IS VERY FUNNY. AND I LAUGH. SO NANN. SHE USED TO BABYSIT ME AND I RESPECT EVERY WORD THAT COMES OUT OF HER MOUTH. EVEN WHEN IT MIGHT BE STUPID. ITS OKAY LIZZ. I STILL LOVE YOU MY ART TEACHER LOL. TIME FOR MY SHOT OUTS. AND I IF I FORGET THE PEOPLE THAT FORGOT ME, MAYBE ITLL MAKE YOU THINK FOR THE NEXT TIME YOU WANNA SELL ME OUT. =) TO DALEYA, MY BABY, YOU ARE THE SISTER I NEVER HAD. TO SUM SUM GETCHA SUM, GET BETTER SOON BABY, TO RAJA CHANDLER AND ABE...DORKS HAHAHA JUST KIDDING I LOVE YOU GUYS!!! TO ALL MY HTOWN RIDAS ( SHATA, JOHNNY, SAMER, BIG MARSHOUD, LITTLE MARSHOUD, TALAL, FARRIS, ETC..TOO MANY OF YALL NIGGAS)..YALL ARE A TRIP...HARAM CUS YALL ARE =)..TO EVERYONE UP IN MICHIGAN (JULZ FREDA VAL AND JEN)I LOVE YALL GIRLS AND MISS YAHLL GREATLY. TO EVERYONE IN D.C. ( SALEM AND ESA ) MISS YALL. GET YA ROLL ON. AND TO JEFF AND JERRY. I AM THE GHETTO SMURF. NOT RAJA!!! UMHM!! OKAY WELL I NEED TO STOP NOW. THIS IS KINDA LONG. HOPE ALL IS WELL EVERYWHERE. PEACE TO DA MIDDLE EAST.. AMANDA
Amanda Mousa <trickinaintez@aol.com>
Jacksonville , FL USA - Thursday, July 20, 2000 at 16:22:46 (PDT)

Hi. In response to me sounding "ghetto", I would just like to inform everyone that I am fully-educated woman with a college degree and an excellent job that pays well...and sometimes it is just plain fun to sound "ghetto". If we were all so serious all the time, the world would be a boring place, wouldn't it? As far as the entries in this guestbook are concerned, I think people are free to write what they want, and if you want to write about peace talks, go ahead. If you want to give "shout-outs", go right ahead. If you want to sell your house on here, go right ahead. I personally think that nothing on earth could be better for our state of Palestine right now than having her children living in peace here in this country TOGETHER. What could be better than all of us getting together once a year to celebrate our heritage with pride? And I believe all this "shouting out" is just our way of saying,"HEY, we're proud of who we are and we are pleased to meet others who are proud as well..." I have only used this Guestbook as a medium for expressing my happiness that we can all meet and be friends and share our thoughts. We all know our Government is not doing much for our Homeland, and although that doesn't make our parents' happy, I believe that the friendships and alliances we all form as their children with each other definitely brings a smile to their face. My mother and father are proud of me for who I am, whether I talk "ghetto" or not does not matter...the fact of the matter is that my father is proud of his beloved Ramallah and I am too...and I show it by associating myself with others just like me. The last thing I want to do is make anyone mad, so to those who are annoyed with me, I did not mean to be so annoying. And to those who "shouted out" to me, right back at ya...my friends are the best and I hope to meet more of you in the years to come. PEACE OUT! :)
Lizzie <XterraGirlX@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Thursday, July 20, 2000 at 14:47:38 (PDT)

Laura, Jed, and JS, you guys are right, it all sounds really ghetto, they sound like they are on some ghetto radio station. Also, whats up with using the word "nigga" what a drity word, someone needs soap in there mouth. I also do not think that Laura is upset because no one is saying Hello to her over a wesite, see some people know how to use email and a phone!
sue
USA - Thursday, July 20, 2000 at 14:04:23 (PDT)

You can talk as properly as you wish but there is nothing more low-class than ignorance. When someone starts talking about "illiterate abeed" the rest of their comment is overshadowed by that close-minded remark. I think everyone needs to relax about abeed and start looking at themselves. You get all huffy and puffy when someone discriminates against arabs but it's different when it's those "illiterate abeed" or "dirty mexicans". Grow up. I think my lovely sister said something to this effect. God teaches us to love everyone, not just who you deem to be "classy". To me, people like that are the embarrasment. Let us talk the way we want because it is obviously not the way we talk all the time, but just something to be goofy with our friends. Besides, I be talking good twenty fo seven.
Hanan Harb Harb <Hanan5050@hotmail.com>
USA - Thursday, July 20, 2000 at 12:47:28 (PDT)

Hello everyone!! Just wanted to say thanks for a great convention. It was a huge success. So glad to see the whole family from all over the states. You guys are beautiful!! Let's meet again September 16 in D.C. Palestine Forever.
Raja Hanna Aghabi <jordyeliz@aol.com>
Long Island, NY USA - Thursday, July 20, 2000 at 11:28:35 (PDT)

With all due respect to the federation, this guestbook, and all its readers, I feel the need to reply to a few comments that were recently made. My dearest JS- I canÌt even believe youÌre going to write about people Ïneed to start having more classÓ in the same entry as some of the most ignorant words ever to grace the AFRP guestbook. I canÌt even begin to respond to your statement about Ïignorant abeedÓ because you are obviously so blind to reality; nothing I can say will get through your thick skull. IÌm surprised you can even read these words. YOUR OWN ignorance astounds me. You have made it clear that you wouldnÌt know ÏclassÓ if it kicked you in the head. It sounds like you might be jealous that the Ramallah youth have bonded. People have made close ties with one another and want to celebrate that by posting to the guestbook. These relationships among conventioneers are a beautiful and special thing, and to me it seems the whole point of the conventions is to celebrate our culture, our heritage and our people. Let the youth enjoy the bonds they have made with other young adults from their homeland. Besides we all know if you had any ÏhoneysÓ IÌm sure youÌd be shouting it from the rooftops, especially since it would take a minor miracle to get any quality lovin after the way you have presented yourself. No one is making you look bad but yourself and your own thoughtless words. And by the way, just because the shoutouts are going on, Salem A, Laura, and ÏJedÓ (aka JS,), no one is stopping you from posting some Ïinteresting comments that {are} somewhat insightful or intelligentÓ. I hope you all chill out and stop with this judgmental attitude. How are we going to discuss peace summits with Israel if we canÌt even get along amongst ourselves? Love one another & God Bless.
Amal Harb <amalharb@acsu.buffalo.edu>
Buffalo, NY USA - Thursday, July 20, 2000 at 09:45:22 (PDT)

I also would like to give a shout out to all my people. My "roomy"/cuz Faten did a good job of listing all the people so I won't repeat. LOVE YOU ALL!! To those that don't appreciate fellow arabs expressing their love and appreciation for one another has a little bitty problem. See.... regardless of the manner in which words are used, whether they "sound" intellectual in nature or "ghetto", the key point that you're missing is that those giving "shout outs" are letting people know they care about each other. If you look beyond the words and read further into the meaning, you will see an important message, arabs sticking together in friendship and in love. If you feel uncomfortable with the messages in this message board, and want to make suggestions as to the content contained herein, then I would highly recommend you choose a topic of discussion rather than complain about what other people choose to write. I'm open to any topics, I just haven't seen any one of you come up with one.
Lena Eadeh <Lena0511@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Thursday, July 20, 2000 at 08:39:26 (PDT)

At the risk of offending the very sensitive people who have been posting messages to the website recently, I'd like to put in my 2 cents. While I'm glad that everyone had a great time in Orlando and are using the website as a way to say "hi" to all they spent time with and met, it appears that all the appropriate people have now been "shouted out" to. If people desire to "shout out" to their pals moving forward, maybe they could just say "hi" by private email. Right now there's a huge issue that we should all focus our attention on and for those who don't know what I'm talking about, please pick up a newspaper or watch the news for a few minutes. Since the Orlando convention is over and the CALI convention is in the distant future, maybe we can try focusing on the things of today.
Only Expressing My Opinion
Washington, DC USA - Thursday, July 20, 2000 at 07:29:33 (PDT)

C'MON GUYS!!!!!!Let's NOT start a literary war among ourselves on this web sight! I agree some of this "abeed haki" sounds very illiterate and only degrades the writer themselves, but you also must recognize that it is only meant in FUN and endearment. ALWAYS remember.....we are on the same side here. DO YOU EVER WONDER WHY THE YAHOOD SEEM TO MOVE FURTHER ALONG THAN THE ARABS? This my friends, is a small example of what part of our problem is. Let's not fight among ourselves; LET'S RESPECT OURSELVES AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER. WE ARE PROUD PALESTINIANS THAT SHOULD WATCH EACH OTHERS BACK... BUT NOT FROM ONE ANOTHER!! Didn't mean to offend anyone. Just trying to make peace.....ONCE AGAIN. Much Love to you ALL!! Really....
PLO Sis
Jax, FL USA - Thursday, July 20, 2000 at 06:08:23 (PDT)

this is in response to laura's rude entry she made about the ghetto shout outs people are writing. maybe your bitter about not having anybody to say hello to, or anybody that is missing you, but that isn't our fault. you yourself dont sound very intelligent when u speak of us talking like people in the apollo. a shout out is saying HELLO & most of us just returned from the convention so we would like to give our Shout Outs to everyone we just saw, or met. this ramallah web page & guestbook, gives us a good opportunity to not only discuss important issues, but allows us to say hello to everyone & help keep in touch... cuz they all know thisssss.... Before i end this "ghetto entry" i would like to give another shout out to everyone... still missing you guys!! muahhhhhhh
Sophia Sahouri <CUZuNOthis@aol.com>
Great Falls, VA - Wednesday, July 19, 2000 at 20:46:34 (PDT)

I agree with you 100% Laura. I have been saying this all along. Many young adults in the Arab American community these days act like illiterate abeed. This is stupid and it makes us all look real bad. Hopefully, we will all continue to talk about issues of value and not "giving shouts out" or saying hello to "my honeys". Certain people need to start having some class.....
J S
Washington, DC USA - Wednesday, July 19, 2000 at 13:35:20 (PDT)

I agree, these comments are disturbing.
Jed
USA - Wednesday, July 19, 2000 at 13:32:34 (PDT)

Hey everyone.. the convention was REALLLL FUN and next year SAN FRAN ITS GOIN BE OFF DA' HOOK BABY!!! I miss everyone already and Carol.. CHUCKIE? LETS JETTT GIRL!! I miss you so much habitti but i'll seen u soon Inshallah... but hey girl next time i got SHOT GUN! lol ... Well it was nice to see everyone that i haven't seen in a while and i'll see u all next year... INSHALLAH!!!!! Love You All ~BabyGirl~
Sandi <LexBabyGirl@aol.com>
LeXinGtoN, KY USA - Wednesday, July 19, 2000 at 12:35:48 (PDT)

ok, i think its about that time for me to give my shout outs too!! who cares what that one girl says about sounding ghetto. I AM NOT GHETTO! and neither are my cousins or friends. so take that, NIIIGGAAA!! ok well, i would like to give a shout out to all my cousins here in Jax. my other half, Angie, and miss petite, Rolly Polly, Lena, Sandra, Hala, Karina, Jenn, Andrea, Lizzie (Lizard) and to my favorite sister (and my only sis), Abeer. I LOVE YOU GEES!! and to my favorite boys in the whole wide world, Issa, thanks for always being there for me, Raja, you got a CHECK i can borrow (i'll pay you back!), Saliba, laughter wouldnt be the same without you :), and AB, just keep those bright colors rocking and we'll be fine and dandy! & the party pooper who had to get drug out of his room everynight, LOL, Sam and to my favorite Bro in the world (my only bro), MO, you are the best friend any girl could ask for and to my favorite cousin in the world Arabi, i love you man!!. and to my out of towners, Val and her boy Jeries, yall are too cute!! and to my boys Esa, Salem, Jamil, and Jeff, and to Christine and Raymond, you're welcome for the help on trying to wake Ray up, LOL. i couldnt do anything without ALL you guys. and thats about it on the shout out note! so hows the weather in Cali? Texas? Michigan? yall guys doin' alright? LOL. ok bye bye
Faten Iwais <AYOONY4@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Wednesday, July 19, 2000 at 10:51:29 (PDT)

Laura, and Salem A. why don't you try leaving an email next time so I can personally respond to your smart ass remarks....typical.....arabs never change.
Patrik
Jacksonville, FL USA - Wednesday, July 19, 2000 at 05:38:27 (PDT)

BALLA HABAL! Am I the only one who thinks that the entries in this guestbook are getting out of hand?! People sending shots out, sounding ghetto...This isn't the Apollo! It would be nice to read interesting comments that were somewhat insightful or intelligent.
laura
USA - Tuesday, July 18, 2000 at 21:13:47 (PDT)

Miss Lizzie. Is it possible for you not to write so much useless information in this wonderful creation of a guestbook? Of corse you can be funny in it but its other purpose is for more important information, questions, and chat. (like whats happening with the peace talks). So we all appreciate your humor but all comedians must retire when no one laughs at them. Let me give my boys a shout out in Cali, Memphis, and H-town. Talk to you all soon. Later. Salem from the West.
Salem A.
San Jose, Ca USA - Tuesday, July 18, 2000 at 20:53:05 (PDT)

ok looking at the guestbook makes me wanna give a shout out to my lolahunny, budta, shuggah, cookie monster, nini- my other 1/2, my lefty & righty (yesss u g- get on the left!) & the list goes on... i miss everyone so much!! we love them swole boys, jordan will forever be taken, downtown orlando will know how we party, swimming at 5am sat nite will suddenly be against the rules & attenion striking fires will always get everyone down in the lobby to say goodbye!! keep in touch every one of u guys... u know my email address... CUZ u KNOW this... mannnn!! muahhhhhhhh
Sophia Sahouri <CUZuNOthis@aol.com>
Great Falls, VA - Tuesday, July 18, 2000 at 16:43:07 (PDT)

Seeing as everyone is giving respect to there people from ole orlander..i figured Id list some of my people: My #1 boys, Nick "shotgun" Mousa, Jamil "Beast light" Farhat, Bob "total pimp" Mousa, Robert "your alright dogg" Elias, Justin "Fatty boom batty" Bateh. And one out of towner, ole Melinda aka "M's". Id like to give a special shout out to Mr. Dale Earnhardt driver of the #3 GM Goodwrench Chevy, Dale the Intimidator is the greatest driver ever. NASCAR FOR LIFE.
Mike "THE INTIMIDATOR" Mousa <moose1128@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, July 18, 2000 at 14:20:19 (PDT)

The Convention was tyte.. But h-town boys know how to party, when it comes to conventions.
Marshoud Zayid <Viper3f@cs.com>
Houston, Tx USA - Tuesday, July 18, 2000 at 13:30:38 (PDT)

HI ITS LIZZ AGAIN (OH NO!!!!)....I wanted to emphasize my shout out to the MICHIGANDERS (Val, Freda, Jenny, Julie...) and the ppl from DC (Jerry, Salem, Jamil, Esa , Sammy, Christine, Raymond)...CHRISTINE AND RAY CANT WAIT TIL YOUR WEDDING AND JERRY AND VAL YOU GUYS ARE SO CUTE TOGETHER AND I CANT WAIT TIL YOUR ENGAGEMENT......INSHALLAH YOU WILL BE WRITING MESSAGES IN THIS BOOK ABOUT ME AND MY WEDDING ONE DAY...HAHA...IF WE CAN FIND SOMEONE WHO WILL PUT UP WITH ME WRITING MESSAGES IN HERE ALL THE TIME...I am so annoying...LOLOL OK PEACE OUT!
Me <XterraGirlX@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, July 18, 2000 at 10:25:55 (PDT)

Hey everyone, I'm on a mission... I saw this girl at the convention, but my dumb ass didn't even get a chance to talk to her, and now I'm trying to find out who she is. All I know is that she may be from Houston, and may be a "Baba" from what I was told. She was kinda short, petite and slim, and she had kinda short blonde highlighted hair. The girl is gorgeous, so if anyone can give me any leads it would be greatly appreciated. No bad intentions.
Sammy S. <seshsh@unf.edu>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, July 18, 2000 at 10:21:41 (PDT)

I just want 2 say what up 2 all my peeps in Jax....The convention was a blast! Miss you guys...& 2 my 3 favorite girls...Gabs..Olivia & Victoria..I LOVE YOU! & 2 all of you....keep your feet on the ground..but keep reaching 4 the stars! 1 love, me
Esa <headdribbler@hotmail.com>
derwood, md USA - Tuesday, July 18, 2000 at 10:16:56 (PDT)

My bad! Forgot about Lizzard! A Special shout goes out to my girl Liz (keep designin')!
Abu Raas
Jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, July 18, 2000 at 10:09:08 (PDT)

ABU RAAS - THANKS FOR THE SHOUT OUT!! But you spelt my name wrong baby but it's all good!! It's the thought that counts!! Having a post convention bash at my house... everyone's invited!!!!! heehee yeah right! :)
Lena Eadeh <Lena0511@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, July 18, 2000 at 08:40:46 (PDT)

ABU RAAS---I thought I was part of the group too but apparently not, so consider yourself SUED because you forgot to give a shout out to your pal Lizzie....it's all good though.....next time you need Graphic Design advice don't come to me. Go to your boy Raja....ok for real though I am just kidding I really don't care I just love to write in this guestbook as you all can see...LOLOL....ok seriously I am a LITTLE hurt but we can still be friends....ok?
Lizzie
Jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, July 18, 2000 at 06:33:38 (PDT)

Just wanted to THANK Lena for those encouraging comments on my "BILADI BABIES." Those young children dedicated many evenings for several months; not to mention the committed mothers. I enjoyed EVERY second of teaching it to them. Let's face it....WE ROCKED!!! DO ME A FAVOR JAX PEOPLE---- If you happen to run into any of these wonderful kids....Let them know how proud you are of them. THANKS SO MUCH!!!!
BILADI MOM
Jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, July 18, 2000 at 05:38:45 (PDT)

Hoping all had a great time at the convention. In Florida, who can "not" have a good time. It was nice to see new faces as well as reunite with the "regular convention attendees". As most of you know, I took Julie Eadeh's place as recording secretary so I turn to my fellow Ramillians for advice on where to get a cheap laptop computer. Or if anybody has one to donate to the federation, that will be most helpful and very much appreciated. I anticipate that it will be needed for future federation endeavors. Thank you in advance for your assistance and contribution. Hope to see you all in Cali !
Diane <goodhakee@aol.com>
Livonia, MI USA - Monday, July 17, 2000 at 13:34:08 (PDT)

Hi everyone!! Glad to still see all the positive comments from the convention. In addition to the great debkeh, I also want to praise the little ones that sang "Baladi", were they not awesome or what!!?? I used to watch them practice and it was so cool to see them sing it live in front of all those people and not mess up once!! YAYYYYYYYY TO THE LITTLE ONES!!!! :)
Lena Eadeh <Lena0511@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Monday, July 17, 2000 at 08:59:54 (PDT)

Orlando was a blast and it was nice to see that J-ville representz! This here, is a shout out to my boyz Ron Luv (keep spreading it), Harry-Z (keep macking it) and A-B (keep up dem bright colors)...and to my boy with the 'Ho - Moe (keep pimpin' it), my niggaz M3-Joe (stylin') and Raja (with the So. Bch. flo)...and a mention to my boy Jerry and his brother Salem...Jameel, Issa and let's not forget Eddie Torrez (how they hangin'?)...and to the guys I just met Jason, Chris and Jeff (keep makin' that dough!)...and let's not forget about the girls! Shoutz go out to my sis L and her boy Sammy the Bull (the next Cochran), my girlz Faten, Angie, Sandra and Lina (keep hookin' it up), and my sistaz Jennifer and Andrea, and to all the girlz I've loved before. And to my niggaz who didn't attend...shoutz go out to my boy Slaz (chillin' at AMEX) and my cuz FUBU (stay black!) Yo, if I forgot anyone -- SUE ME! Jacksonville!
Abu Raas
Jacksonville, FL USA - Monday, July 17, 2000 at 08:30:02 (PDT)

Kristy....I was in the lobby chilling with everyone else. Where were you missy??? lol. I guess in that big crowd we must of got lost. lol Yallah talk to u soon girl.
Diane <Diawood@aol.com>
NY USA - Monday, July 17, 2000 at 08:02:57 (PDT)

OOPS, I MADE A MISTAKE! IN A PREVIOUS COMMENT I PUT ROOM 276 AS ONE OF MY FOND MEMORIES FROM THE CONVENTION...I MEANT TO PUT ROOM 726!!! APOLOGIES TO THE PERSON WHO WAS IN ROOM 276!!! HAVE A NICE DAY.
Lizz Farhat <XterraGirlX@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Sunday, July 16, 2000 at 20:47:53 (PDT)

Hey everyone just wanna give a shout out to my babygirls from the convention.. Miranda my shuggah mama (when's the double wedding?) Sophia lil ms habooooola you better call me when you get in town.... Lora it's about time you got back babygirl we all missed you in Ramallah... Girlzzz you guys know what we are "Ramallah's ******"... LOL we know the other half to that one...
Tina <Tuntoonie@hotmail.com>
Livonia, MI USA - Sunday, July 16, 2000 at 15:21:17 (PDT)

Alright, I just got 1 thing to say. SOPHIA--> Miss Know This... I LOVE YOUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YACHTEES FOR LIFEEEE AND INSHALLAH MORE! It was great hanging out with you at convention. I'll be in D.C shortly to visit you babyboo! And to all my old friends that I saw at convention, I love ya'll and was glad to finally chill again. Much LOVE to the Ramallah family. We should have a convention twice a year, and not only once. Celebrating being part of the Ramallah Family shouldn't be limited to once a year! SHout Outs to BUDTA, LORA, and TUNTOONIE TINA.
Miranda Bateh <Shuggah427@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Sunday, July 16, 2000 at 10:21:16 (PDT)

Hey Salem From The West, e-mail me....
Lizzie <XterraGirlX@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Sunday, July 16, 2000 at 08:59:25 (PDT)

I just wanted to agree with Nader's comments on July 12. Although we hope for the best in the Camp David peace talks, I think they are coming at a peculiar time as Clinton finishes his term in office. Clinton is proposing that we use over $15 billion dollars to support foreign aid. That's great, but there is no way the Republican dominated Congress will be able to approve that much money. The result: Clinton looks good, Republicans look bad. I guess we will watch and see. Anyways, thanks to my fellow Jax. debke group members, we did a great job! One more thing...Diane aka DIAWOOD....WHERE WERE YOU AT THE CONVENTION???? LOL.. See everyone in CA!
Kristy Nasser <krysty97@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Sunday, July 16, 2000 at 08:37:57 (PDT)

hey hey hey!! i see noone has really written in the guestbook in a couple days, sooo... i am gonna break the ice, haha. just wanted to say HELLOOOOO & welcome back myyyy lolahunnyyyy Lora from Ramallah!! Orlando missed u haboola!! everyone else who i met at the convention, email me... everyone has got to keep in touch... & u know thissss!! p.s. i love u my shuggah, hehe Muahhhhhhhhh!!
Sophia Sahouri <CUZuNOthis@aol.com>
Great Falls, VA - Saturday, July 15, 2000 at 21:22:08 (PDT)

The convention in sunny Orlando was real great. I had a fun time. Hope we can do it again next year in San Fran. I want to say whats up to my boys and girls- Michele, Ju-Ju, Peter, Mike, Katrina, and the rest knows who they are. And by the way the Jacsonville group put on a real nice convention. But I never heard anyone praise the logo. Its only a picture of Disney World with a banner around it in a circle. Cool. Maybe us Cali people might think of a good one like that next year. HaHa. Well talk to you guys later. Allah Maukum. Salem From the West.
Salem A.
San Jose, Ca USA - Friday, July 14, 2000 at 14:33:22 (PDT)

LENAAAAAAA---OK I FOUND OUT THE GUY AT THE GYM IS THE OWNER OF *A* GATE STATION, HE'S NOT *THE* OWNER...BUT YESTERDAY I WAS WORKING MY PART-TIME JOB AT PUBLIX AND MY MANAGER POINTED OUT THIS WOMAN TO ME AND SAID,"HEY THAT'S HERB PEYTON'S WIFE..." OK SO BIG DEAL?!?!?!? ANYWAY, I HEAR HERB PEYTON IS A GOOD FRIEND OF ONE OF MY UNCLES WHO SHALL REMAIN NAMELESS. HEY I AM GLAD EVERYONE HAD A GOOD TIME AT THE CONVENTION. I MISS IT. ROOM 276...DRINKING VODKA CRANBERRY OUT OF MY MIAMI SUBS CUP WITH A STRAW....SLEEPING DURING THE FIRE BECAUSE NO ONE BANGED ON OUR DOOR....I AM SO DEPRESSED. SHOUT OUT TO THE MARYLAND CREW...I WILL SEE YOU GUYS NEXT MONTH! WOOOHOOO!!!! 10-4, OVER AND OUT....SIGNED, LIZZARD
Lizz Farhat <XterraGirlX@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Friday, July 14, 2000 at 14:05:31 (PDT)

Hey everyone! It was great seeing all my old buddies from past conventions and having the opportunity to meet new frieds. Orlando was GREAT!! Thanks to the Jacksonville community for putting together a great convention! Hopefully San Francisco will be just a good!
Karen Mufarreh <KareBearM@aol.com>
Addison, IL USA - Friday, July 14, 2000 at 13:58:02 (PDT)

Hey Everyone! I just wanted to say that I thought the convention is a blast. I never knew how many palestinians there were and it was so amazing to me to be able to meet everyone! The best part about it was seeing how strong everyone is in their culture. I was sitting around talking to a group of people and they were saying stuff like we speak arabi so well at a young age because 1) our parents never talk to us in english ( strike one for amanda ) 2) because we never hang out with our '' american'' friends, always with our cousins, aunts and uncles, ( strike two for amanda ) and 3) because we would always be in church together and after wards sit around and study the language ( strike 3 for amanda )...So now, after this convention it has made me want to learn more about the culture. And by the way to everyone in debka, thank you all for making it ROCK! I think we did a good job, of course we don't compare to Detroit, lol, but it's all good. See '' YOU GUYS '' in San Fran!
Amanda Mousa <TrickinAintEz@aol.com>
Jacksonville, Fl USA - Friday, July 14, 2000 at 13:50:51 (PDT)

Hey everyone. WOW I can't believe the convention is over already. I just wanted to say Jacksonville you guys did a wonderful job. I had a blast. It was great to see everyone again and it was nice meeting new people. I miss you guys already. Keep in touch and inshallah i'll see you all next year.
Diane Kaywood <Diawood@aol.com>
Long Island, NY USA - Friday, July 14, 2000 at 13:15:19 (PDT)

Hi everyone, I am the Vice President of the Arab Student Org. at Michigan State University. As I like to keep my fellow students informed, I was wondering if you could add me to any list-serv that you might have, especially pertaining to upcoming events. SHUKRON!!!
Jilnar Mansour <jilnar@hotmail.com>
Lansing, MI USA - Friday, July 14, 2000 at 10:56:31 (PDT)

Newsweek is running a live poll through July 14. What should Jerusalem's future be? VOTE PALESTINE, today we are running out of time. www.msnbc.com/news/430676.asp
PLEASE VOTE
USA - Thursday, July 13, 2000 at 23:57:09 (PDT)

Very nice Job Florida. Hospitality was gracious. Debka was very very impressive. I am in D- Town Debka and I have to admit. You made us look not all that good. But I guess that is the way the cookie crumbes. It was good to see old faces and meet new faces. I had a great time. Hey Paul, Pat and Justin: "We were those guys!!!" "Hey Jordan...are you taken???" It was good times. And many more to come. You three are not just friends but brothers. To the love of my life, wish you were there babe. Miss and love ya. Aight I am outta here. Peace out amigo's.
Jordan Ghannam <PstnPrince@aol.com>
Detroit, Mi USA - Thursday, July 13, 2000 at 21:34:31 (PDT)

newsweek is running a live poll through July 14 entitled What should Jerusalem's future be? To cast a vote one should go to the following link http://www.msnbc.com/news/430676.asp It is important that you spread the word. As of few hours ago, the poll shows that 44% of respondents said Jerusalem should remain under Israeli control. And 31% said Jerusalem should be incorporated in the new Palestinian state.
howaida mousa <weedda@aol.com>
jax, fl USA - Thursday, July 13, 2000 at 20:38:51 (PDT)

Ok ok I am mad I didnt realize all these people were at the convention! Why did I not meet any of you?? You all know you liked my logo...thanks everyone for coming up to me and complimenting me on it. Hey yall I'm just kidding...glad everyone had a good time...by the way I know my new friends from Ohio are going to make fun of me because I say "yall" but it is so much less effort than saying,"you guys"..LOL I'd also like to give a shout out to the "Ohioans"...I miss you! Ok I know YALL are tired of me commenting in this guestbook so I'm out. BYE!
Lizz Farhat (again!) <XterraGirlX@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Thursday, July 13, 2000 at 13:40:41 (PDT)

MANNNNN THIS CONVENTION WAS INCREDIBLE, I JUST WANTED TO LET LUCILE, CHRISTINE, SU SU,MICHELLE, MARIE AND MY BOYS I HAD A GREAT TIME WITH YOU GUYS. THE ARABIC BAND WAS INCREDIBLE. LUCILE ME AND YOU WERE A GREAT DANCE COUPLE YOU WERE GREAT, AND CHRISTINE I HAD FUN LEADING THE DEBIKA WITH YOU ISSA ODEH YOU ARE MY BOY, THANKS FOR CHANGING THE MUSIC AT THE NIGHT CLUB, TAKE CARE GUYS. JUST EMAIL ME IF YOU WANT TO CHAT LATER
BOULOS SHUNNARAH <BOULOS@WWISP.COM>
BIRMINGHAM, AL USA - Thursday, July 13, 2000 at 11:10:59 (PDT)

Just a quick "thank you" to your organization for helping to sponsor our recent trip to Palestine. With the combination of your organization and the unending efforts of Dr. George Zaibaq and the Lions for Sight group, in Petaluma CA, our group (comprised of volunteer optometrists, and other Lions) was able to see over 1200 patients for vision checks. These people came from all over Palestine; from Gaza to Hebron to Nablus. We were able to attempt to provide some basic vision care to the people who came and were able to give out hundreds of glasses and medications. Many thanks to George and the people both in Ramallah and those who support this organization elsewhere. While the work was very tiring, we were made to feel at home and we came away with a much better understanding of the situation in Palestine.
Mark McLain <mclainmae@kpnw.org>
Portland, OR USA - Thursday, July 13, 2000 at 10:53:38 (PDT)

I was surpised to see the sight. Great Job!
Cathy Mogannam Scott <cascott@cisco.com>
Fremont, CA USA - Thursday, July 13, 2000 at 10:26:49 (PDT)

Hello my name is Justin Ayoub and i attended theis years convention in Fla and i have to say that it was a great success everyone was very happy with it. and i also myself being apart of the D-town Debka wich means i know a thing or two about a good Debka J-Ville's Debka was right up there. i mean no offence i went there not expecting much but you proved me and alot of other people wrong good job J-ville.
Justin Ayoub <Fustin23@aol.com>
Plymouth, MI USA - Thursday, July 13, 2000 at 06:58:55 (PDT)

LIZZIE.... The owners of Gate are the Peytons. The son of the owner has blondish hair (kind of wavy/curly the last time I saw him). He was hitting on me a longgggggggg time ago at Cafe on the Square. It's killing me because I know his first name and can't think of it!!!! I think the dad is Herb Peyton??? Something like that!!
Lena Eadeh <Lena0511@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Thursday, July 13, 2000 at 06:46:28 (PDT)

Just wanted to say that I thought the convention was mighty fine. My boys Jimmy Farhat, Nick Mousa...we tore it up...meaning our 4 jugs of crown royal....and my 2 12packs of "the king of beers". San Fran had better get ready for for the "southern boys" b/c were gonna bring a little bit of DIXIE to the west coast. Remember: Real Men dont Compromise...THEY COPE.
Mike Mousa <Moose1128@aol.com>
Gainesville, Fl USA - Thursday, July 13, 2000 at 05:50:25 (PDT)

hello to all. i am still recovering from the orlando convention. it was so unbelievable. the people of jax did a great job. i was so pleased to see everyone. take care and see you next year in sfo.
jawad zanayed <bbadman4@aol.com>
houston, tx USA - Wednesday, July 12, 2000 at 22:57:11 (PDT)

OH MY GOSH! I THINK I WORK OUT AT THE SAME GYM AS THE GATE PETROLEUM GUY! Ok there's this guy who walks around the gym like he is all that, and my friend told me once,"Hey that's the guy who owns Gate.." and I never cared because he walks around with a year-round tan and with little tank tops on like he is so big and buff...and anyway, I was just reading through this message board and the contact for Gate Petroleum lives in Jacksonville and his address is very close to the gym...HMMM...I WONDER IF THIS IS THE SAME GUY!!! If so, guess who is going to cuss him out tomorrow night after kickboxing!!! I have a phone call in to see if it is the same guy...I will let you know if it is him. (Like anyone really cares, huh??? LOL) OK BYE!!!!!!
Lizz Farhat <XterraGirlX@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Wednesday, July 12, 2000 at 13:40:49 (PDT)

ORLANDO 2000 WAS HOOKED UP & I WANT TO THANK EVERYONE FOR SUCH A GOOD TIME. I LOVED CHILLIN W/MY JAX CHICKS... HOUSTON CREW, MY LEFTY & RIGHTY ALONG W/EVERYONE ELSE- BUT IM SO GLAD I MET SO MANY NEW PPL. I HOPE WE ALL CAN CONTINUE TO KEEP IN TOUCH & IF I DONT SEE YOU GUYS IN SAN FRAN... SHYTOWN IS GONNA BE OFF THE HOOK... CUZ U KNOW THISSSSSSS!!
SOPHIA SAHOURI <CUZuNOthis@aol.com>
GREAT FALLS, VA USA - Wednesday, July 12, 2000 at 11:26:40 (PDT)

Oh My God! It's over =( I had a blast guys.. And I know it's been said a few times already; but Jax did a wonderful job.! The debka' was sweet! I was in the Houston Debka, and I know all the hard work & practice you guys put into the whole thing.! Its soooo worth it to see the crowd on their feet for you.! Good Job Guys! =) I loved seeing everyone. It came & went.. and now it's over! I'm already excited about 'Frisco. I hope everyone had a safe trip back.! Miss you guys!!! :: Princess. =)
Jehann Zayed <PrincessJehann@aol.com>
Houston, TX USA - Wednesday, July 12, 2000 at 10:30:13 (PDT)

JUST WANTED TO SAY HI TO ALL THE PEOPLE I MET AT THE CONVENTION! THE CONVENTION WAS A GREAT TURNOUT AND EVERYONE HAD A LOT OF FUN! I HOPE EVERYONE IS PLANNING ON COMING TO CHICAGO FOR THE 2002 CONVENTION!!! THANX 2 ALL THE GUYS FROM TEXAS FOR MAKING THE CONVENTION A BLAST! THANX JOHNNY! BYE
ANGIE GHANAYEM <SHATRA1017@AOL.COM>
CHICAGO, IL USA - Wednesday, July 12, 2000 at 07:03:53 (PDT)

First I want to say thanks to all the people in jacksonville for making the convention a great success. We did it!! Hope everyone had a great time. I also want to comment about the peace process going on right now at camp david in Maryland. I believe this is just another smart plan by the Clinton administration to put some sort of closure on President Clinton's tenure in office. Clinton, Arafat, and Barak will come up with some deal and they will have a huge media celebration to give Clinton his high percentage of approval rating by the american public. There have been many trips to camp david, many negotiations, and definite progress, but I believe we shouldn't get our hopes up over this event that has covered the media for the past two weeks. Let me know what you all think about this. See you all in San Fran.
Nader Farhat <nfarhat@ufl.edu>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Wednesday, July 12, 2000 at 01:50:44 (PDT)

"CALIFORNIA KNOWS HOW TO PARTY.........."
California
CA USA - Tuesday, July 11, 2000 at 22:39:50 (PDT)

Hello everyone. Just want to say that the convention was a blast. I meet so many new people that Im going to keep in touch with over e mail. I also want to thank the Jacksonville Committe for all there hard work for making this one of the best conventions. Inshallah we will see everyone in Cali!!! With Love!!!!!!!
Maha Faris <aham529@aol.com>
Detroit, MI USA - Tuesday, July 11, 2000 at 20:54:04 (PDT)

Heyyy Guysss!! I missss you all ALREADYYY!!! I hope everyone made it home safe!!! Take care,Take it easy and most of all,KEEP IN TOUCH!!!!! Aways, Jenn-
Jennifer Mashni <Heliwa79@aol.com>
lexington, ky USA - Tuesday, July 11, 2000 at 19:10:56 (PDT)

Hello all! the convention was fantastic!!!! Thanks to everyone in Florida who took their time to make this event such a success. I hope everyone had as much fun as I did!
mark ankar <ankar1og@aol.com>
chattanooga, tn USA - Tuesday, July 11, 2000 at 18:50:19 (PDT)

Although I'm an Eadeh, I was not fortunate enough to know Joseph Eadeh. My condolences goes out to the entire family and anyone who knew Joe. May he rest in peace. To those that went to the Orlando convention, I am so glad you all had such a great time, especially since we hosted it!! I know I had a blast!! Everything was great during this convention up until the fire. Like Anton Zarour, I thank all the courageous people that stepped up to the plate and saved many lives of our friends and family. I've gone to conventions before but never cared for them that much. Maybe now because I'm older, I'm seeing things differently. But there was so much that touched me during this convention such as the older ladies in their traditional wear chanting the songs from the week of a wedding, the younger generation doing an AWESOME debkeh and an even younger generation singing Baladi and carrying the Palestinian flag with a great deal of pride. Here were 3 generations (from ages like 7 up to 75 +) demonstrating the beauty of being a Palestinian. Many of our cultural traditions were featured in the Florida Times Union which made me feel even more proud of who we are. I'm not sure if any of you attented the debate but even aside from that, all throughout the convention there was a consistent message, to keep our culture alive. I know I did my share of drinking and partying but I never lost site of what the conventions are truly all about. Let's all do our part in carrying on the traditions of our ancestors.... something so sacrad but can easily be lost. Take care!
Lena Eadeh <Lena0511@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, July 11, 2000 at 16:09:25 (PDT)

Amjad...I am there! This is phenomenal...long overdue! A million Palestinian march! I hope to see all of you over there too...sounds like a once in a lifetime opportunity to show people that we exist, that we are not invisible. The more people that turn up, the better. Gore and Bush are already talking about moving the US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem...to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of israel...they're talking about a gigantic grant for billions of dollars to israelis, so they can demplish more homes over Palestinian's heads....well, maybe they'll think twice about that if they see so many potential Palestinian American voters on the White House front lawn! Amjad...please make sure every type of media you can imagine will cover this. News crews avoid events like this, but if there are 3 jews picketing somewhere, they turn it into a big story. Media is EXTREMLY important here! You need PR let me know... Desert Diva
Desert Diva <Desert Diva>
USA - Tuesday, July 11, 2000 at 16:07:50 (PDT)

I WOULD JUST LIKE TO SAY THAT I WAS ON THE SEVENTH FLOOR AND NO ONE BANGED ON OUR DOOR TO SAVE US!!!! NO ONE CARES..... (LOL)
Lizz Farhat <XterraGirlX@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, July 11, 2000 at 11:40:52 (PDT)

I hope everyone has recovered from the greatest Ramallah Convention ever held. I just wanted to thank everyone that helped out at registration and Banquet Seating. You all know who you are. We all worked extremely hard to make it an easy and quick process. I also want to thank those who helped in creating the registration software. We could not have made it through such a large convention without it. Thanks again and I can't wait to see everyone in San Francisco.
Peter Farhat <pfarhat@yahoo.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, July 11, 2000 at 10:32:46 (PDT)

THE COVENTION WAS ONE OF THE BEST ,I AM SURE EVERYBODY HAD BEAUTIFULL TIME. LOOKING FORWARD TO SEE YOU NEXT YEAR IN CALI ANTON ZAROUR
ANTON ZAROUR
FL USA - Monday, July 10, 2000 at 18:22:35 (PDT)

TO THE HEROES WHO SAVED OUR LIVES: I WOULD LIKE TO THANK THOSE HEROES WHO BANGED AT OUR DOOR AND OTHER PEOPLES DOORS THAT MORNING, DURING THE FIRE. YOU GUYS HAVE SAVED MANY LIVES, BECAUSE WE MIGHT HAVE DIED FROM SMOKE INHALATION. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SELFLESS EFFORTS. GREATFULLY YOURS, ANTON ZAROUR
Anton Zarour
Fl USA - Monday, July 10, 2000 at 18:15:32 (PDT)

Hello Everyone. The convention was wonderful and the people of Jaxonville did a fantastic job! I hope everyone had fun and made many new friends. See you all in San Fransisco!! Good Luck and more power to the people of Ramallah.
Muhannad Ghanayem <Vaanexel@aol.com>
Milwaukee , WI USA - Monday, July 10, 2000 at 17:15:56 (PDT)

Hi everyone, I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make the ramallah convention a sucess. i Loved the logo too... I hope everyone had a safe trip back home, and we've all recovered from the lack of sleep especially after the smokey 6:30am wakeup call yesterday... To sit in the florida sun, sipping a strawberry daquiri by the pool, and catch up with old friends & family, and debke circles around the banquet hall, nothing could top that to heal the soul. the trip back to buffalo was hard because part of me kept looking around me hoping to spot a cousin or friend walking around closeby. i miss you all already. i'm leaving my email address because i didn't get to see everyone before we left, and it would be a shame not to keep in touch. put me on your buddy list - my AOL screen name= amalthat. much love to the TGIFridays & planet hollywood crew, the gang from club zinc, the 'usins from cleveland, randiggity & jeffery, my girl lena & the whole michigan posse, that guy who thinks he beat me at air hockey, the omron family, my pool buddies, shout out to the dirty south & all my 3arab with country grammar, the hungry grump, my beautiful cousins freddy, jimmy, & frankie, you guys are the best, and most of all to that guy who should thank his lucky stars that we never found that fooseball table. keep in touch & drop me a line if you're going to ramallah this summer- i can't wait... 2000 will be a summer to remember for sure. peace in the middle east, Amal
Amal Harb <amalharb@acsu.buffalo.edu>
Buffalo, NY USA - Monday, July 10, 2000 at 15:05:14 (PDT)

I forgot to make a comment in my previous entry: To Janan Sayyed, I have never ever heard in my life of someone so dedicated to education that they get a Doctorate and three Masters degrees....inshallah you should win a Nobel Prize or something because all that hard work better pay off....I hope my kids will be as ambitious as you are because one Bachelor's Degree is enough for me!!!
Lizz Farhat <XterraGirlX@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Monday, July 10, 2000 at 13:44:15 (PDT)

Hi everyone. I was just reading through the guestbook and I give my condolences to the Eadeh family for their loss. Even though I did not know their beloved Joe, I know it is hard losing someone special especially when they leave us so early in their lives. To everyone who went to the convention, thanks so much for making it a great time...I met some wonderful people and I had a BLAST, except for Sunday morning thanks to whoever set the couch on fire (see Issa's comment below...). And lastly, this was my first convention since I was a child and I am now addicted so i will see everyone in Cali next year!!! Have a nice day....
Lizz Farhat <XterraGirlX@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Monday, July 10, 2000 at 13:38:49 (PDT)

I just wanted to say that this year's convention was a blast, just like the rest of them. Everyone did a great job, and the convention was a success. Look forward to seeing everybody at the San Fran convention.
Chris Harb <Charb30@aol.com>
Strongsville, Oh USA - Monday, July 10, 2000 at 10:30:11 (PDT)

HELLO EVERYONE...WELL THE COMVENTION WAS FUN OTHER THAN THE FACT THAT SOME IDIOT BURNT THE HALLWAY ON THE MORNING OF DEPARTURE..BUT OTHER THAN THAT IT WAS GOOD...GLAD TO SEE SO MANY PEOPLE AND GLAD TO MEET SO MANY PEOPLE.....HOPE EVERYONE ENJOYED IT..TALK TO YALL SOON......AND SEE YOU ALL NEXT YEAR IN CALI....ISSA
ISSA ODEH <ALLDAY048@AOL.COM>
JACKSONVILLE, FL USA - Sunday, July 09, 2000 at 08:21:21 (PDT)

Hello everyone. I found this website by accident. I am an Palestinian american. I travel every two years to Ramallah and I love it. I am proud to be who I am. I am going to finish my PHD in Clinical psychology. I already have Doctor in Naturopathic Medicine,Master's in Nutritioin, and another masters degree in Psychology. I am a very firm believer in education. While I was reading the messsages on the website. I noticed that there were messages for Joe Eadeh. I send my condolescences to the family. Please feel free to e-m,ail me. i am in New york.See you guys later.
Janan Sayyed <Jsayyed@yahoo.com>
Yonkers, NY USA - Saturday, July 08, 2000 at 13:23:18 (PDT)

Attention Michiganders. If you wish to join the Michigan commitee please send an empty message to Al-Awda-Mi-subscribe@egroups.com Palestine Refugee Return March Dear friends, On September 16, 2000 at 11 AM, thousands of Palestinian refugees and their supporters will take part in the Palestine Refugee Return March in Washington DC. This important, historical and timely march to the White House will demand that ongoing Israeli ethnic cleansing of Palestinians be stopped, and that Palestinian refugees expelled from their towns and villages in 1948 and afterwards be allowed to go home. The march from the Capitol along Pennsylvania Avenue will be followed by a rally in Lafayette Park in front of the White House. Invited speakers include Nelson Mandela, Heider Abdel Shafi, a speaker from Shatila refugee camp in Lebanon, Imam Siraj Wahaj, human rights activist Dr. Eyad Sarraj*, Dr. Edward Said and Ali Abunimah*. Invited also are poets June Jordan and Suheir Hammad* and musician Marcel Khalife. The Palestine Refugee Return March, on September 16, 2000, will coincide with the anniversary of the 1982 massacre of over two thousand innocent Palestinians and Lebanese in the Sabra and Shatila refugee camps during Israel's occupation of Beirut as well as the September deadline for the end of negotiation between Israel and the Palestinians where the fate of the refugees is to be determined. The rally in front of the White House will include a commemoration led by survivors of the camp massacres and will send a strong message to American, Palestinian, and Israeli negotiators that no return equals no peace. Background In 1948 and again in 1967, Israel forcibly expelled one million Palestinians from their homeland, destroying more than 500 towns and villages. As a result of this policy, which today would be called ethnic cleansing, millions of Palestinian refugees and their descendants continue to be denied their right to return home. The right of return is guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which states, "Everyone has the right to leave any country, including his own, and to return to his country." United Nations General Assembly Resolution 194, reaffirmed annually for five decades by virtually every member country, states that Palestinian "refugees wishing to return to their homes and live at peace with their neighbors should be permitted to do so at the earliest practicable date, and that compensation should be paid for the property of those choosing not to return and for loss of or damage to property which, under principles of international law or in equity, should be made good by the Governments or authorities responsible." Yet, for fifty-two years, Israel has denied this right to Palestinians, while allowing people from all over the world to "return" to Palestine, even if they have never set foot in it, simply because they are Jewish. The 3.7 million Palestinian refugees, who are registered with the United Nations, and the 1.3 million unregistered, constitute two-thirds of the total of eight million Palestinians. They represent the largest and oldest refugee population in the world. Palestinian refugees, who continue to languish in overcrowded refugee camps in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, and all of the countries neighboring Palestine, watched as Kosovar and Bosnian refugees were assured their right to return home. The refugees from Palestine are not demanding war. They do demand that the international community, and especially the United States, uphold the principles of human rights and international law to which they are nominally committed. This means the recognition and implementation of the right of return as the basis for any just settlement. Join The March We call upon all freedom and justice-loving people to participate in the Palestine Refugee Return March in the nation's capital. Join us to send a message that there is no peace without justice, and there is no justice without return! Join us to demand an end to ethnic cleansing and exile! Join us to demand that the Palestinian people be allowed to return home! Organization The Palestine Refugee Return March is organized by The Palestine Right To Return Coalition, a broad-based global democratic association of grassroots activists and organizational representatives. This coalition aims to pressure the international community to fulfill its legal and moral obligations vis-a-vis Palestinian refugees based on The Universal Declaration of Human Rights and through the implementation of United Nations Resolutions upholding the inalienable right of Palestinians to return to their homeland and to restitution of all their confiscated and destroyed property. ______ To send a donation to help defray the cost of the rally, please address checks to: PRRC, The Palestine Right To Return Coalition PO Box 401 Hummelstown, Pa 17036 e-mail: prrc@mail.com Web: http://al-awda.org Fax:717-832-1123 Organizations wishing to support and sponsor the Palestine Refugee Return March are requested to contact PRRC at the above address. _________________________________________________ *confirmed. Program updates will be circulated as they become available
Amjad Jadallah <jadallah@phelesteen.net>
detroit, mi USA - Friday, July 07, 2000 at 08:11:34 (PDT)

Hey everyone, I hope the convention was a success, I have no doubt it wouldn't be. But unfortunately I couldn't come, but there is alwasy next year in Cali. I'm putting an ad for anyone who purchased the Ohio Convention in 1999, I need a copy of the tape and their are not anymore copies for sale. So if anyone puschased the tape can u please e-mail me at PLObudta@aol.com. This would mean the world to me, Shouts out to my girls....... Lola who's chillin in the blad, Tree , Sophia and Shuggah who are chillin in FL. and to my family and al lmy Michigian Peepsssss. Love u guys , Budta
Jennifer <PLObudta>
Detroit, MI USA - Friday, July 07, 2000 at 07:30:50 (PDT)

AFRP Web Site June 2000 Statistics. (Total hits: 40,435; Total unique hosts: 999; Total kilobytes transferred: 501,008)
AFRP JUNE 2000 Stats <afrp@afrp.org>
USA - Tuesday, July 04, 2000 at 10:45:12 (PDT)

Marhaba Everyone! Hope you are all doing well. I'll bet most of you are getting for the convention right now...I won't be able to make it, but I will next year. I will hope to contribute so that you find next year's convention not only fun, but meaningful. Remember, you should all be proud of who you are...unlike the media makes us all sound, we are intelligent, hospitable, and down to earth people. Before you all take off, please take a minute to sign this petition for the right of return to Palestine for all Palestinian refugees. One in four Palestinians are refugees,and all should have the right to return home whenever they want, more so than European and Russian immigrants!!!! So far this petition has been signed by 80,000 people and 225 major organizations. The right of return petition affirms that "every Palestinian has a legitimate, individual right to return to his or her original home and to absolute restitution of his or her property." All you have to do is click on: http://rightofreturn.org/home.shtml Remember, the Palestinians are the most educated people per capita in the Arab world (yes, it's true!) Let's make our voices heard! Take care everyone...and have a safe trip... Desert Diva
Desert Diva <Desert_Diva@hotmail.com>
CA USA - Saturday, July 01, 2000 at 22:17:04 (PDT)

Hello everyone! Well, call me what you want, but I am just now joining this guestbook, and some of the things people say in here are freaking hilarious. I don't know anything about gate gas station commercials,and I do not really care if people consider their selves american or not, but all I know is that ORLANDO is going to be awesome. Hope to see you all there! Peace Out..TrickyTrick
Amanda Mousa <TrickinAintEz@aol.com>
DirtySouthville, Fl USA - Saturday, July 01, 2000 at 19:40:21 (PDT)

Return to the AFRP Guestbook
Back to the AFRP Home Page