Dielli | The Sun

Albanian American Newspaper Devoted to the Intellectual and Cultural Advancement of the Albanians in America | Since 1909

ALBANIAN RYDER CUP IN ITS 10th YEAR STAYS IN NEW YORK – BUT THAT’S ONLY PART OF THE STORY

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By Rafaela Prifti-

In its 10th year, the Albanian Ryder Cup tournament contended with the Coronavirus pandemic and hurricane Isaias perhaps foreshadowing the future of community events defined by dignity, respect and pertinence in testing times. At least one team member believes that in the future, there might be a junior event or a girls’ edition for the Albanian youth. Next year’s competition will be held in August in Wisconsin, whereas an all-star team from both groups will pair together to compete against Albanians from Europe in Germany in 2021 for the Inaugural Kastrioti Cup.                

Embracing the opportunity to cover the 2020 tournament edition played over three courses at Turning Stone Resort and Casino in Verona, New York from August 2 to 5 between NY and Detroit teams, I had the chance to interview New York team captains Zef Gjelaj and Sokol Selmani, and Detroit Team Co-Captain Gjon Sinishtaj, in addition to communicating with New York Team Coordinator Mark Curanaj, and members Pashk Berisha and Mark Tushaj. In terms of golf events, through the middle of the last decade, Dielli has covered fundraising efforts to support building the Mother Theresa Cathedral in Prishtina led by members of Vatra Council like Anton Raja along with Board members like Simon Qafa and others. This compilation of conversations on this week’s four-day golf tournament presents a brief history of the event originating in 2011, some highlights of the dramatic moments of the recent competition, exemplifies ways of adapting to new challenges of social gatherings and location adjustments, but above all it shows the power of human bonds. Each one of the golfers I talked to, valued the excitement of the game and the integrity of friendship. They also expressed their wish to pass down this gift to the younger Albanian generation.          

The captain of New York team, Zef Gjelaj, said that this is his 8th year in a tournament that runs continuously for 10 years. “This year is the first time NY team won back to back and more interesting the first time the team won cup on home course. Calling it “our NY team”, Mr. Gjelaj said that golfers’ backgrounds are from Albania, Kosova, Montenegro and vary in range from 21 to 65 years old. He was proud of their great chemistry, adding that most of them were friends before they started playing golf. In fact, over the years, they have played together for so long, the team has become ‘a golf family.” I asked how he carries out the functions of the captain for the New York team. “I don’t say much, only except to remind them to work together. To not care for individual success because we will win as a team. “Individual commitment to a group effort that is what makes a team work” is our guiding principle,” said Mr. Gjelaj. He described with excitement the clinching of the tournament by the first year player Christian Dedvukaj who made a 7 foot putt in the last hole 18 par 5 and also the team’s MVP who is none other than two-time Champion of Dancing With the Stars, Driton Dovolani known to all as Toni Dovolani.

For Pashk Berisha of the New York team participating in the tournament as a team compounds the pressure on the player yet it increases the intensity and thrill of the sport. “Playing as a team in an annual tournament is very rewarding because you are representing your team and in this case your community as well.  It is pressure packed and thrilling because you are playing for your team mates and community not just for yourself.  It’s a much different feeling when your team mates rely on you and vice versa so the pressure is amplified many fold,” said Mr. Berisha. When describing how different this year’s tournament was in the pandemic situation, he said that they had to change the venue from Whistling Straits to Turning Stone, where they had to abide by social distancing and mask restrictions.  “It limited the time we spent together outside smoking cigars and telling jokes because they would not allow gatherings,” commented Pashk, who explained that unlike previous years when the teams would get together in the evenings and spend hours as a group, this year the socializing was very limited due to pandemic. As far as the event, he noted that the early years had seen many controversies whereas the last few years it’s gone pretty smoothly. “The teams,” contented Mr. Berisha, “have developed friendships and bonds that will be long lasting. The competition is very serious but it has become more of an event with competitive golf than just a competition. Winning is very important but it is not the only goal; competitive golf played with integrity, dignity and respect in a gentlemanly manner that will make our community proud.”

Mark Curanaj, the New York Team Coordinator indicated to me that there are 100 Albanian golf players in the Tri-State area. While I am aware that Albanians have brought to their adopted country the passion for the popular sport of soccer, I wondered about the extent of golf’s popularity with the older demographics in the community. I asked him how he got into gold and if perhaps Mark’s father or any elderly family members who came from Montenegro were into golf. I heard him laugh cheerfully admitting that none of them particularly cared for golf. Then he explained that growing up in Westchester, meant that golf is part of your life. I asked about the discipline it requires mentally as well as physically.  Mark reinforced the point of mental toughness of the sport that is a natural ability more than a trained feature. He laid out the history of the Albanian Ryder Cup, created by two longtime friends Tony Gjokaj and Luvigji Lucaj from New York and Michigan respectively. “In the first iteration in 2011, eight players gathered from each state and played 54 holes over two days at Shephards Hollow in Michigan. Curanaj, who is the New York team coordinator, recalled “the two dramatic putts on the final hole singles match between Marko Gjolaj and Martin Vulaj that galvanized the cup and the bonds that continue today’ as he put it. It ended in a tie. Since then the format has remained the same. The only adjustment has been the increased participation which has seen the number of golfers swell from 16 to 28, making 14 on each side. Each year the venue rotates between the two states and each side has added or removed players. The current teams have remained unchanged in the last five years. In the course of the five years, the best golfer on both teams with over 70% win of his matches is Shkelqim Kukaj. New York team has been led by outstanding performances by Sokol Selmani, Zef Gjelaj, Toni Dovolani and Paul Martini, who have won over 70% of their matches, whereas the Michigan team has been led by Mark Kalaj, Mark Berishaj, Gjon Sinishtaj and Anton Sinishtaj. New York has had the cup three of the last five years and was the first team to retain it after a 14-14 tie last week,” said Mr. Curanaj. He described the 2020 edition played over three courses at Turning Stone Resort and Casino in Verona, New York from August 2 to 5 for each team. Toni Dovolani, two time MVP and Mark Tushaj were undefeated for New York team. Team members raved about rookie and last-minute replacement, Christian Dedvukaj, who won two matches. In true golf commentator fashion, NY Team Coordinator remarked “Michigan was led by three undefeated individuals Mark Kalaj, Mark Berishaj and Dennis Perkaj, also MVP for Team Michigan. Team Captains Lou Lucaj and Gjon Sinishtaj. New York held a one point lead after the first day four ball matches. Here is how the local team got the 4-3 lead: Three matches ended on the 18th hole par 5 in dramatic fashion when Christian Dedvukaj got up and down from 40 yards for birdie to seal a victory and Sokol Selmani finished the final 3 holes: birdie, par, birdie after being down 2 with 3 to play.” In day two of the tournament, he said “we decided to play the alternate shot matches during tropical storm Isiais.” Acknowledging that this year’s golf was unique considering the conditions, Mr. Curanaj remarked that New York managed to split the seven points and maintain the one point lead going into the final day of singles.  “On singles day there were 14 points on the line, NY shot out to an early lead owing to putts made by Sokol Selmani, Toni Dovolani, Tony Gjokaj and Mark Tushaj. Michigan was able to win 5 of the final 6 matches thanks to impressive performances by Zef Deda. Marko Gjolaj, Dennis Perkaj, Mark Berishaj and Mark Kalaj. The final result 14-14. As previous year’s winner, New York retained the Cup, in accordance with the rules. Christian Dedvukaj, Rookie of the Year, made a Cup clinching 7 foot putt on the 18th to win his match and retain the Cup. Each team has 4 wins, 4 losses and 2 ties, as the home team has yet to win on its own turf,” commented Mr. Curanaj. While there is much focus on the competition like at any sporting event, Mark Curanaj and his fellow golfers value the “camaraderie and respect displayed and earned” at the event as defining features of the first decade of the tournament. In response to my question about next year’s event, Mr. Curanaj said that the Cup will be contested at Whistling Straits, with future venues including some of the world’s finest gold resorts Pinehurst, Sea Island and Streamstrong. In terms of future events, the team coordinator said that though 2020 was cancelled due to Covid-related issues, an all-star team from this large group will pair together to compete against Albanians from Europe in Europe at some point in 2021 for the Inaugural Kastrioti Cup, guided by Florim Bajraktari. 

For Mark Tushaj, such an event helps the community of golfers who love to participate and non-golfers who generate interest and are drawn to it, by reaching out to ask about it. “Aside from the 28 participants, 14 in each team, there are dozens of Albanians who would love to be part of it. It has really created a positive buzz in the community” To my question about sharing the excitement of the game now and in the future, Mr. Tushaj said that the hope is that “the event will continue into the next generation of young Albanian golfers. Perhaps we can develop a junior event or even a girl’s event for our youth.” He defined golf “as a great game that requires focus, independence and confidence, as well as athletic ability. The game of golf and this tournament would be a wonderful gift to give to our children.”  

Gjon Sinishtaj, co-Captain of Michigan team, shared that same sentiment. I asked him to relate what he appreciates most about the game. Without hesitation, he answered ‘Friendship building!” and having a unique opportunity to meet with fellow Albanians that he would not have the chance of encountering in life. He said that he regards them as “brothers’ and is proud to be part of a unique brotherhood.

Noting the impact of the pandemic, Sokol Selmani, Captain of New York Team, explained that they had to make adjustments and the original location was moved from Whistling Straits to Turning Stone, where he added “the team had never won” in prior competitions. Despite the changes and the wearing of the masks indoors as required, Mr. Selmani said that the team did not allow that to affect the good mood of the event. Echoing the fellow golfers on both teams, captain Selmani underlined that when the round is over they shake hands and sit together cheering for their team in a respectful manner, and when everyone is done competing they go to dinner together where in typical fashion one tries to pay the bill before someone else gets to take care of it and, when the tournament ends they hug everyone while wishing each other good trip home. He made sure to credit Mark Curanaj, for making all the arrangements from flights to sleeping quarters, from tee time reservations to dinners, thus allowing the team to focus on golf. Indeed in the course of the interviews I observed that each one credited the other team member for their role in the event and in the team. In its tenth year, the Albanian Ryder Cup stayed in New York, but I hope the golf culture spreads throughout the community.     

Below is the list of members: Team Michigan: Lou Lucaj – Captain Gjon Sinishtaj – Captain Luki Lucaj Luvigji Lucaj Gjon (John) Lucaj Kujtim Sinishtaj Mark Berishaj Marko Gjolaj Dennis Perkaj Nick Palushaj Zef Deda Anton Sinishtaj Frank Gjinaj Mark Kalaj

Team NY: Sokol Selmani – Captain Zef Gjelaj – Captain Mark Curanaj Martin Curanaj Pashk Berisha Simon Hajdaraj Florim Bajraktari Mark Tushaj Tony Gjokaj Shkelqim Kukaj Christian Dedvukaj Leon Gjoni Toni (Driton) Dovolani Paul Martini

HOW WE HONOR REGIS PHILBIN

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By Rafaela Prifti-

“Regis Philbin was class act who brought warmth, humor and wit to audiences for decades, and was a fine representation of both The Bronx residents and the Albanian community.” Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. for DIELLI.

Regis Philbin, American TV personality and icon passed away from natural causes at 88. Quickly after, the family made the announcement, a spokesperson expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love they have received and invited people to make donations to help the needy in his beloved New York.

In paying tribute to him, it behooves our community to honor the Albanian ancestry of Regis Philbin, as the son of Filomena Boscia, and grandson of Nicolamaria Boscia going all the way back to Francesco Boscia born in 1761 in Greci, Avellino, Campania, Italy.

In this article, I have reproduced his mother’s side of the family tree.  

Born on August 25, 1931, in the Bronx, Regis Francis Xavier Philbin, attended local schools and graduated from Cardinal Hayes High School. After receiving a sociology major from Notre Dame, Philbin joined the US Navy. In the 50s, Regis started working at local TV stations in California first as a stagehand then a news writer and years later a news anchor in San Diego, before gaining national exposure as a TV host. He moved to New York as a star of local morning television. In 1988 Regis teamed up with co-host Kathy Lee to have a national broadcast of the show. In 2001, Kelly Ripa was announced as the official replacement and went on to co-host the high-ranking program for another decade. Ripa paid tribute to her mentor Regis Philbin on the show by remembering Joy, his wife of 50 years and daughters J.J. and Joanna. His former wife Catherine Faylen, daughter Amy and son Daniel, who died in 2014. The crew also honored Regis as a “national treasure”. As a TV personality, Regis lived a good amount of his life in front of the camera. He was endowed with a gift of a charming storyteller. Philbin shared so much of his experiences, encounters and family stories with worldwide audiences. Most of his guests and people in his circle were aware of his Irish father roots. In fact, he was named after his father’s alma mater, Manhattan’s Regis High School.

Though Philbin had mentioned his Albanian ancestry from his mother’s side, and even pronounced a few Albanian words he learned from her as a child, he brought a complete family genealogy on the set of the show in 2010. His mother, Filomena was born in Manhattan whereas his grandmother Nicolamaria came from Greci, Italy and died in the Bronx in 1934. Holding a family tree poster on the set, an exited Regis Philbin, revealed that his mother’s side were forced to leave the home country, Albania, centuries ago and cross the Adriatic to settle in Italy in a small village called Greci. Through numerous records going back hundreds of years, it has been established that Greci was one of the settlements of the Arberesh community, early Albanian population that was forced out of Albania beginning in the last century of the Ottoman Empire. It is believed that a considerable number of the Arberesh community who have crossed the ocean and numerous families who live in the New York area originate from the same village. One documented example is the family of the former Congressman Joe DioGuardi. In fact, Philbin acknowledged the relation when he presented the genealogy diagram to his guest on the show, Kara DioGuardi, daughter of JoeDioguardi, whom he referred to as “distant cousin”. I was able to reproduce the family origins of Regis Philbin for the readers. *

Regis Philbin had a long and successful careers for decades leaving an indelieable imprint on American culture. He reached the hearts and minds of millions of Americans as host of Morning Shows and “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire”. He has been honored with Emmy awards and acknowledged by his peers, and received his Hall of Fame induction in 2006. 

It is upon us to honor Regis Philbin and his Albanian ancestry.

Regis Philbin – Walk of Fame in the Home Borough of the Bronx

The Bronx Borough President, Ruben Diaz Jr., who has hosted Albania Independence Day last November and has persistently honored the Albanian-American community as well as our historical and cultural personalities at varous events, frequently refers to the Bronx native, Regis Philbin.

“Regis Philbin was not only one the most recognizable media personalities of our time, but he never forgot his roots and was in the first class of inductees honored on the Bronx Walk of Fame in 1997,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. for DIELLI. “Regis Philbin was class act who brought warmth, humor and wit to audiences for decades, and was a fine representation of both The Bronx residents and the Albanian community.”

Regis Philbin Walk of Fame sign is located on the corner of 153st and Grand Concourse, right by his alma mater Cardinal Hayes High School in his home borough of the Bronx.

DIELLI EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH DEPARTING AMBASSADOR TEUTA SAHATQIJA, HEAD AT THE CONSULATE GENERAL OF KOSOVO IN NEW YORK

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By Rafaela Prifti-

I am grateful that we are able to have this conversation prior to your departure from your post as Head at the Consulate General of Republic of Kosovo in New York. This evening The Pan-Albanian Federation of America VATRA hosted a farewell event at its Headquarters. What is your message to VATRA as the oldest organization in the US diaspora and its leadership?


Ambassador Teuta Sahatqija:  Four years ago, I began my tenure as the Head of Kosovo Mission to New York by visiting VATRA’s offices. It was an emotional visit, not unlike walking in a sacred historical site, full of history, glory, stories, and patriots who did so much for Albanians all over the world. VATRA is the organization that has synchronized the Albanian voice in the United States. I think that carries a special importance. VATRA can bring even more coherence in the Albanian diaspora, and coordinate efforts to strengthen the Albanian position in America and thus helping the Albanian cause in Albania, Kosova and around the world.

DIELLI: During the war, you and your family were forced out of your home. Your plight is described in the issue of The Diplomat Washington of March 1, 2019, as follows: “on April 5, 1999, Sahatqija fled her home in the village of Gjakova with her husband and their four children — ranging in age from 4 to 10 — as neighbors’ houses were burning and corpses littered the streets. “I found myself in the middle of the road with all the kids, not knowing where to go,” she said. “Without food or security, we were forced to flee through the mountains, and ended up in Albania — first in Krumë, a town near the border, then to Tirana.” Then the article characterizes you as a seasoned diplomat stating: “Sahatqija’s objective: to get as many nations as possible to establish diplomatic relations with Kosovo, and have her small, struggling country admitted to the U.N. — and eventually NATO and the European Union as well.” How do you feel you have met the challenges?

Ambassador Teuta Sahatqija: As Kosovo’s UN envoy, it is particularly challenging since Kosova is still not a UN member and there are some countries that very “diligently” strive to prevent Kosovo from being present and from participating in events and in meetings. In fact, I have several Protest Notes from Serbia and Russia for such participations.

DIELLI: It has been one month from the cancelation of talks between Kosova and Serbia in Washington in late June and the publication of the allegations by the Special Prosecutors Office. How would you describe the present situation?


Ambassador Teuta Sahatqija: The dialogue between Kosova and Serbia has started. It is very important that it continues and even more important that it finishes with mutual recognition. It will help Kosova to remove obstacles in its way toward full recognition in world political, diplomatic and professional stage. It will enable the country to join the UN, EU and other international organizations as well as allow Kosovo to focus on economic development. I believe that the interest for this dialogue between US and Europe is increased as the guarantors of proper comprehensive agreement.

As for the Special Prosecutors Chambers, there is no court in the world that can change the history and glorious fight of Kosovo Liberation Army for freedom. Our fight was the right one and justice will prevail.  

DIELLI: Recalling the previous visit last February at Vatra’s Headquarters of Kosovo President Thaci, Her Excellency Ambassador Vlora Citaku and you. How do you remember it? What difference did six months make?


Ambassador Teuta Sahatqija: As always VATRA’s doors are open to all, high government officials and state dignitaries. It was welcoming and informative with regard to the developments and efforts in the United States by the community leaders. I do remember that some of the questions gave them a hard time. For me, I felt as a member in the Kosovo delegation and at the same time as part of the host diaspora delegation.

DIELLI: You are a diplomat representative of a non-member state of the United Nations and that is a challenging job. How have you managed to serve your country in the UN headquarters and under the circumstances that you have? In one instance, I recall the event in early 2019 held at the UN commemorating the contribution of the Albanian people in rescuing the Jews in World War II when you were not giving the floor. What can you tell us now about the episode?


Ambassasor Teuta Sahatqija: The task of the UN envoy of Kosovo which is not a member is particularly challenging. I have been involved and have participated in various events and commemorations. I remember the event honoring the selfless acts of Albanians who helped to rescue Jews during the WWII, in Albania, Kosova, Montenegro, South of Serbia or Macedonia. Helping the one in need is deeply ingrained in Albanian nation’s culture and tradition regardless of the country’s borders or rules of governments. The commemoration at the UN Conference Hall is an unfortunate event where I was not allowed to take the floor. Not being a UN member entails a number of obstacles for Kosova, but at least friendly UN members try to compensate that lack of presence by invitation to discussions and other ways of participation.

DIELLI: What are your most cherished memories from the time you served in New York? With your experience in political life of Kosova, what did you bring to the position as Head of the Consulate of Kosovo in New York? And what do you want your predecessor to know about the task that they have to carry?


Ambassador Teuta Sahatqija: One of my main tasks in New York was communication with UN Missions. I was Kosovo’s Envoy to the UN. I aimed to make Kosovo present within UN community, receiving and delivering diplomatic messages to my counterparts, participating in countless activities at the UN. It was a formidable and stimulating task since Kosova is still not a UN member and there are countries that work “diligently” to prevent Kosovo from being present and active on the world stage. I have several Protest Notes from Serbia and Russia for such participations.

I have been blessed with many friends among Ambassadors who invited me to conferences, asked me to deliver remarks, arranged meetings with Ambassadors of non-recognizing countries through lunches or dinners or invited me to receptions where I could network on behalf of Kosova. Those friendly Ambassadors helped reduce the frequency of UNMIK reporting to Security Council about Kosova from four times down to two times a year. They helped block some efforts of Serbia for de-recognitions and much more.  


I would like to say to my successor to be aware that the Mission in New York could probably be the most difficult diplomatic mission of Republic of Kosova in the world. But it is also an honor to serve your country. I would like to tell my successor to make as many friends as possible and to never give up. 

DIELLI: You have been a very outspoken advocate of the rights of survivors of sexual assault of the Kosova war. In January 2020 you co-organized an event at National Committee on American Foreign Policy titled: Silent No More: Perspectives on Combating Sexual Violence in Conflict. Your presentation laid out important campaign goals for survivors. There have been numerous events and rallies where you have championed the cause for justice on behalf of survivors. Are you proud of advancing the voice of the women that still feel stigmatized in Kosovo’s society?  What can you tell us about the mission as you move forward?

Ambassador Teuta Sahatqija:  The topic of sexual violence during the war has been one of my priorities. In Kosovo, as Member of Parliament, I worked with the survivors through several women organizations. I worked on the legislature to recognize the survivors and also provide them with the economic tools to empower themselves. In New York, I advocated to seek justice for them, to try to include Kosova in the annual report of Secretary General of UN for Sexual Violence during the conflict. I have continued to speak up with UN diplomats, through different organizations as NCAFP in NYU, speeches at Harvard, CUNY, Baruch and elsewhere. I am dedicated to stand with the survivors as I serve in my new position as Deputy Minister and shall do so throughout my career.

DIELLI: What are some of the most enduring memories during your mandate? And do you have any regrets as you take your next post?

Ambassador Teuta Sahatqija: I am going back to Kosova after four years with very fond memories, with a lot of new friends, a lot of achievements and pride. Could I have done more? Probably! I shall continue to serve with dedication in my new position as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora. I will serve my country, work the best I can and live the post in better condition than I found it. 

DIELLI: You have prioritized issues of social justice, gender equality and women’s rights while being a staunch supporter of the arts and culture including the culinary heritage of Albanians. As the Head of the Kosovo Consulate General in New York, you have hosted numerous art exhibits and the office space has accommodated shows and has been transformed into an art gallery with intense frequency. There must be a record number of shows, exhibits, book promotions, culinary festivals, movie-screenings launched and hosted by you in New York and around the country. You clearly value the impact of the art and culture. Can you please share your thoughts?

Ambassador Teuta Sahatqija: I am proud to have accommodated art shows at the Kosova Consulate. We have hosted six artists’ exhibitions in a span of two years, and numerous classical, jazz, popular music concerts that provided opportunities to young artists to perform for the community. We hosted or co-hosted numerous film premieres and plays. The moment Kosovo produced wine was placed at the Security Council table by Japan Ambassador, I knew we needed to organize wine tasting events. We had four such popular editions and it became an attractive event for the UN diplomats who joined with anticipation.

Also, seminars for Albanian language and culture were held in VATRA’s offices and on premises at the Kosovo Consulate. I send books to Albanian schools in New York and all over the country. We have launched book promotions and signings, business gatherings for Kosovo and American businesses and investors. We have had performances by Albanian school children. Every time Kosovo Consulate’s offices invited the Albanian diaspora, I always welcomed them with the same words: “Welcome home!”- “Mire se erdhet ne shtepine tuaj”!

DIELLI: Thanks to concerted efforts, Kosovo has gained international exposure through the education and business initiatives such as the orientation of RIT Kosovo (AUK) presentation last winter, and your keynote speech at a Convention in the US on telemedicine industry which has been set up in Kosova in 2002.   

Ambassador Teuta Sahatqija: The telemedicine industry connects the needs of the healthcare system and the technological advancements to better serve the people in Kosovo. I have received the President of the RIT Kosovo –AUK and supported the fundraising events, as well as donated to KAEF to benefit its scholarship program.   

DIELLI: You are the Head of Consulate General of the Republic of Kosovo in New York, a diplomat and very savvy in Public Relations. You are also a wife, a mother, sister, daughter. How have you been able to balance all of it?

Ambassador Teuta Sahatqija: I take every job very seriously and dedicate myself to do it well. I dedicate 100% of my energy and time and I do it with a lot of love and passion. My family is so supportive in all my efforts. I try to leave my post in better condition than I found it. I think that is my recipe.  

DIELLI: You have a great record in terms of relations with the community and the media. In recognition of such rapports, Kosovo General Consulate has awarded recommendations for members of the community and members of the press. Vatra and Dielli have been consistently acknowledged by the office and the government institutions of Kosova. To what do you attribute your good relations with the community?

Ambassador Teuta Sahatqija: Albanian community in America deserves eternal gratitude from Albanians in Albania, Kosova and wherever Albanian live. Albania and Kosova effectively became countries thanks to enormous efforts, the dedication and diligence manifested in the diplomatic and financial aspects. The least I could do was to show gratitude for all the work done in the past and present. Vatra and Dielli are the strong pillars, the beacons of Albanian presence in America, guardians of the glorious history that makes every Albanian proud regardless of where we live. The very first visit I made when I started my mission four years ago was at VATRA. I do close my mission in New York by visiting VATRA among friends I made during my tenure.

I have a lot of respect for the Albanian diaspora and I have committed to make them an important part of my work. My last event on the occasion of Kosovo Independence Day was co-organized with Albanian Diaspora organization and I am so proud of it.


I would like to wholeheartedly thank the journalists, media and Albanian press in New York and America who covered the events, reported the meetings and informed the diaspora and the people back home of the work of the team of diplomats in New York. Thanks a lot!

DIELLI: Thank you for the interview! Good luck!

EDUCATION IS A FORCE MULTIPLIER, SAYS KEN BIBERAJ, SPOKESPERSON OF BIBERAJ FOUNDATION

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By Rafaela Prifti*-

-The Biberaj Foundation started in 2017 and announced its first project of co-funding the Albanian-American Development Foundation Master’s Degree Fellowship Program in July 2018. It was a support of $2.5 million dedicated to Albanian Professionals in pursuit of graduate studies in the US. How did the partnership go? 

Our family was excited to create the Biberaj Foundation in 2017. From our first partnership with AADF to the scholarship program with RIT Kosovo (AUK), we announced this week, we have sought to give back through increased access to educational opportunity. 

-Yes, the recent announcement of the Biberaj Foundation of a $1.1 million Scholarship Program at RIT Kosovo (AUK) starting in 2021 through 2024 is a first time partnership. Can you share what attracted you to this particular institution? 

It is always important to have the right partner when implementing a program like this, and we are grateful to RIT Kosovo (AUK) for their support in creativity in developing this program. 

-The 2021-2024 Scholarship Program puts emphasis on women and minorities. Can you talk about that? 

This scholarship aims to ensure that between 50-75% of recipients are women, something that we take great pride in emphasizing. The goal is to cast a wide net and reach as many young people as possible, from various regions and demographics.

-How does your Foundation measure the success of the program? How do you weigh the risks?  

It will be important to reach as many applicants as possible, provide them with the resources to pursue higher education, give back to their communities, prioritize learning in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and journalism. Hopefully this initiative will encourage other donors from around the world to also support similar efforts. 

-I am a recipient of a US government scholarship for graduate studies and I can say from first-hand experience that it has changed my life. What are some of the stories you hear from the Biberaj Foundation recipients? 

Our family is in a position to provide this scholarship because of the incredible opportunities we received by being in the United States. That is why we are so excited to not only support this scholarship for enhanced access to educational opportunity, but to also tie it to a requirement that recipients also spend time studying in the United States. Education is a force multiplier, and when these young people return home, they will have the experience and background to truly give back to their community.

*PS. Also read my full interview with Visar Jasiqi of RIT Kosovo (AUK) in the upcoming July issue of Dielli.

DIELLI INTERVIEW WITH MS. SOPHIA ZAYAS, BRONX REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE AT THE NY GOVERNOR OFFICE

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by Rafaela Prifti

Ms. Sophia Zayas, Bronx Representative at the Governor Cuomo’s Office of Regional Affairs, talked to the English Editor of Dielli (The Sun) about the impact of the pandemic to the community she serves and the strength of cultivating relationships that unite us. She holds a College Degree in Business Law and is the first woman in her family to hold a state-level office position. Ms. Zayas’ roots make her feel at home in the densely populated and diverse neighborhoods of the Bronx including a large Albanian-American community. She has attended Albania’s and Kosovo’s Independence Day alongside Albanian representatives, officials, families and guests. They remember Ms. Zayas hand-signing the eagle and saying in perfect Albanian “Hej Shqipe!” a common greeting among fellow Albanians. All those memories became more endearing during the lockdown months in New York, which was the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic. Overwhelmed and anxious New Yorkers watched Governor Cuomo’s daily briefings to stay informed and do their part to manage or practice a new kind of living in the time of Coronavirus.

I conducted my interview with Sophia Zayas in two parts, starting in end of May. At the time, some areas in the Bronx were more affected compared to other boroughs. The Regional Representative worked on the front lines with community leaders, advocates and residents.
I asked her to describe the response specifically to those 5 zip codes, where at least one has a large Albanian population. “I communicated on a daily basis with local electeds, community representatives and related the feedback to Albany and to the Governor. One contributing factor of the situation was the large influx of impoverished people that highlighted health disparities. I was able to communicate the need of the significantly affected areas to the Governor, who responded by bringing more testing to the South Bronx. A good step in our response to the unfolding heath crisis was the antibody testing. It was the outcome of effective communication with churches and members of the community. At the same time, the response in Zip codes that were less affected focused on providing more PPE, more hand sanitizer from the state, and equipment to protect themselves,” said the Governor’s Bronx Representative.

To my question about testing capacity in New York, Ms. Zayas recalled the “rough patch between the Governor and the Federal Government to address the need to increase testing”. She added: “As a result of those efforts, COVID diagnostic testing and antibody testing are available to urgent care centers, pharmacies, churches and grocery stores, in order to get employees tested. In addition, antibody testing was brought to supermarkets, although it wasn’t promoted, it was only for random sampling. It has a great success rate and the community response was immediate. They appreciated seeing that the Governor’s Office and Department of Health were out there and concerned about their needs.” Talking about NAICHA – Housing Authority – which is overrun with cases, Sophia noted that the need came to the regional representatives and it was addressed by the Governor. “They developed a program,” said Ms. Zayas, “consisting of ready responders such as paramedics and practitioners who are currently on-site at the housing facilities. Residents can call the ready responders to their doors for their health needs.”

In my next question I brought up the preparations for a possible second wave that was much talked about in the media. She indicated that while trying to be optimistic about getting through the worst time, this is no time to put the guard down. Experts have stated that a second wave is probable. “As we go into Phase One of the reopening,” the Bronx Borough Gubernatorial official said, “Pelham Gardens which has a significant number of Albanians, has a dramatically higher Infection rates compared to the city. My job as the Regional Rep. as we’re going into phase one is to listen and console people who are in quarantine and under lockdown orders, but also to encourage mask-wearing and take preventive measures. People have been distracted because of the tragedies, looting and rioting. I’m trying to put the focus on putting a mask and social distancing and to be careful. I think we’re at a good place in terms of the COVID cases as a state. The Bronx has to be mindful of how we go about moving forward.”  She paused briefly to make a point about the protest and the health risks: “There was an uproar in our state and country. The protesters, marchers, looters and rioters on the street, are not practicing the safety measures which could mean a possible risk of an increase in infection cases. The Governor fears that if we start feeling overconfident with the low numbers now, we may become less vigilant in facing the virus. Often when people don’t read or hear about it, they start thinking the virus must be gone. That is not the case.”  She believes that under the strong leadership of the Governor the community stepped up to meet the challenge of an incredible magnitude and impact. From it, she acknowledges the valuable lessons of managing a health crisis and battling a pandemic.

With regard to the economic impact, I asked her to share how the community felt about the first phase of reopening, which was on June 8th while protests had erupted, violent at times, and were continuing for days in our neighborhoods. “In light of protests, we have to pay close attention to what is happening in the region. COVID-19 is still in focus, while we have to stay alert to keep people from destroying properties and businesses that communities had worked hard to build for years. Reopening of construction and manufacturing companies and certain businesses who sell food is good for the economy and the community, as we they continue to practice social distancing and common sense,” said Sophia.

We continued the second part of the interview, when 100 days of the pandemic had passed from the date the first case was identified. Bronx had been a hotspot that experienced a significant rise of COVID-19 cases, a respiratory disease caused by a highly contagious virus. In the fourth month of the global health crises, the threat of the virus has not diminished. In one of the press briefings I attended, Governor Cuomo said that there is another virus in the society, “the virus of racism”. As protesters took to the streets to demand racial equality, the riots again impacted some boroughs like Brooklyn, Manhattan and the Bronx more significantly. There were sections in the Bronx like Fordham, Grand Concourse, and Burnside that saw a lot of devastation. The excitement of the phase one of the reopening was affected by a lot of destruction of small businesses, the looting and rioting in the streets and in our own community.
 
”Albanian businesses were not affected by the looters and the rioters,” remarked Sophia. “Areas with Albanian businesses such as Morris Park were ready. They kept united and they didn’t allow for looters to come in their neighborhoods, whereas some Latino and Black-owned businesses were torn apart. Burnside, Grand Concourse and Fordham have minority owned businesses. Sadly, the looters ended up hurting their own community. I visited these areas with the President of The Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation, Marlene Cintron, to assess the damage and assist through the Department of Financial Services, and loan programs.”

Ms. Sophia Zayas, who holds a College Degree in Business Law, is the first woman in her family to hold a state-level office position. I asked her to take me through her work day.
Sophia answered: “The day of a Regional Rep is pretty unpredictable. I have been a Rep for 2 years. A pre-pandemic workday would include a range of things: such as setting out an agenda,  working on regional reports, expense reports to brief the Governor, emails from Albany, scheduling maybe a conference or planning events for the Governor whether it’s visits, scoping out places, speaking to people in the community, speaking to elected officials. One of the rep’s tasks is planning a program, who do we want to see in the audience, who do we invite, what is the topic, what will the Governor address. It is very challenging and overwhelming. We are molded for perfection as the governor is a perfectionist. Staying informed about the regional issues and its needs and also communicating effectively with the elected officials is of primary importance. I ask them what issues need to be addressed or if there’s anything I could do for them. I reach out to advocates or they could reach out to me. The advocates are non-profit organizations. Community residents can reach out about housing. We do constituency work.  If they’re not a part of my region I can refer them to a colleague or agency that can help them. There’s always action going on. The Reps know each other on a familial level and we work endless hours together. Our job is stressful but it comes with rewards. There are times where I’ve been upset and stressed out because something doesn’t turn out the way I want.”

I asked if she could share a moment that had made her proud.

Ms. Zayas said that the Sheridan Expressway was a huge transportation project that is still going on now. “The Governor wanted to come to the Bronx to announce it. They gave me 18 hours to build an event for the Expressway. I didn’t know how I was going to get 400 people in a room in less than 18 hours. I made calls and sent emails, reached out to people and the school we were close to. We ended up with 500 people in the auditorium. The Governor was very pleased and congratulated me so I felt accomplished in my job as a Rep,” For Sophia, part of that event comes with cultivating relationships in the community.” It was a great segue to my last question about her connections with the Albanian community and who was the first Albanian she had met in the Bronx. “The first Albanian I met was Esad Rizai. I introduced myself as the new Bronx Regional Representative. In observance of the Albanian independence. I brought the proclamation on behalf of the Governor and presented it to the Albanian-American Society Foundation. We became great friends. Albanians are very welcoming and accepting. I feel that my network of Albanians is wide, I’ve been able to cultivate relationships with the Albanian community. This past year at the Kosovo Independence event I presented the proclamation to honor posthumously Ali Rizai, Esad’s father, and the work he’s done. I brought Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul to honor Albania and Kosovo Independence at the Borough Hall at the Bronx Borough President Office. The Lieutenant Governor presented a proclamation on behalf of Governor Cuomo to the whole Albanian community and organizations. I value the good relationships of its members with Governor Cuomo. Whatever their needs might be, I try my best to provide services to keep them united.”