Rafaela Prifti – Page 48 – Dielli

AGIM KARAGJOZI –REMEMBERING HIS LIFE AND HONORING HIS LEGACY

April 8, 2018 by dgreca

“…An unrelenting patriot, intellectual and humanitarian. A selfless man whose only goal was to put Albanianism first. Put your nation’s interest ahead of your own and help provide freedom, justice and economic prosperity for your people. The passing of Agim Karagjozi marks the end of an era, but it is up to us, the next generation, to keep the flame of Albanianism strong.”

By Rafaela Prifti/

This segment of the eulogy delivered by his oldest son, Zuhdi, highlights the virtues of Agim Karagjozi’s character as a man and the ideals that guided him as a leader. The tribute was equally informative and insightful, combining historical events and personal moments in the life of the late Chairman of Vatra. The early part of the funeral service presented the family portrait of Agim Karagjozi, through the stories of two of his seven grandchildren, Mathew and Evan. The appreciation for the personal side of his life was expressed by Mrs. Teuta Sahatqija, the Consul General at the Consulate General of Kosova, who affirmed that Agim’s “legacy and memories will live on to defy his physical death.” With regard to his role as a prominent community activist, she placed emphasis on his advocating strong connections between Kosova’s institutions and the US. The Counsellor of the Mission of Albania to the UN, Armand Shandro, stated that Agim Karagjozi is the recipient of the National Medal of Honor, by virtue of his lifelong commitment and drive for the advancement of our nation. Vatra’s Chairman, Dritan Mishto, noted that the organization owes a debt of gratitude to Agim who has laid out a strong foundation for the Federation at a very critical time. He conveyed his sympathy to the family and focused the attention at a particular moment in Vatra’s history. It was Agim’s oldest son, Zuhdi Karagjozi, who enabled the acquisition of the building, which would house Vatra. While setting the record straight, Mishto rightfully credited Zuhdi for this invaluable contribution to the organization. This episode reveals a quality that both father and son share, namely, humility. In his remarks, the current Chairman said that “all Vatrans’ were present there as a pledge that the Federation which the late Chairman helped lay the foundations of, will continue to go on. Dr. Gjon Bucaj, Vatra’s Former Chairman, called Agim Karagjozi, “a true friend” and “an inspiring leader”. He added that his predecessor “was honored with many recognitions and decorations; among those, the one that made him particularly proud and happy, was the Honorary Citizenship of his native city, Gjirokastra.” After conveying his sadness, the Editor in Chief of Dielli, Dalip Greca, brought up the beloved Chairman’s unique style of communicating with the journalists in two particularly relevant interactions. He procedeed to read an endearing poem penned by Agim Karagjozi, first published in 1986, titled ‘Vatra and the sons”. In his remarks, Agim Rexhaj, Vice Chairman of Vatra, stated that the Pan-Albanian Federation of America and the late Chairman have a special unbreakable bond. With regard to his leadership style, the speaker said that the Honorary Chairman ‘listened more and spoke less” and that he was “a symbol of maturity in decision making and of wisdom in debating.” Vice Chairman Rexhaj counted himself fortunate to have been working side by side with a man like Agim Karagjozi. Further, he expressed appreciation that while Agim Karagjozi was Vatra’s Chairman, two important milestones became realities: the state of Albania was established as a democracy and Kosova gained its independence. Rexhaj concluded with a call for honoring Agim Karagjozi’s legacy: “Today is the moment of acknowledging his legacy, a moment for all Albanians and Vatra members to take a pledge upon his body that his ideals and the driving principles of Vatra will live on!” The following speaker, Agim Alickaj, spoke on behalf of the Albanian American Civic League. The AACL Board Member and longtime friend of Agim Karagjozi, stated that one of his greatest qualities was the ability to bring people together by respecting an opposing point of view. Publicist Idriz

Lamaj and activist Dino Cani paid their respects and noted that a man of his statue inspire in the way they live their life. Several political personalities had sent telegrams of condolences.

The concluding remarks and prayer were delived by Father Nikodhim. In a soft tone, he said that he was pround to have been invited to remember Agim Karagjozi. Father conveyed that although he did not know personally some of community members, now resting with the Lord, he knows “them by their stories…” Yet he said “Agim knew many of these great Albanian patriots that the world knows of through books, through literature and the ideals of freedom they expressed. ” In accordance with the Eastern Orthodox tradition, Father Nikodhim asked all present to join in the simple yet meaningful prayer:

May his memory be eternal!

SO IT SHALL BE!

Rafaela Prifti

DIELLI EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH ERMONELA JAHO

March 30, 2018 by dgreca

DIELLI EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH ERMONELA JAHO ON MARCH 8, INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY/

-Thank you for speaking to Dielli on this special day for women!/

As the recipient of the 2016 International Opera Award and an opera soprano in high demand, how do you measure success? Is it the reviews of the critics, the admiration of the audience or the respect of the fellow opera singers?

I give my best at any performance, by stepping on the stage as if for the first time or the last time. I have no expectations from critics or the audience. Success will remain a relative term. The audience responds to an honest and heartfelt performance. I strive to give my all at any given performance in order to allow the heart to speak through the language of music. The voice is only a medium that reaches from the artist’s soul to the audience.

-You had stated that an important quality of a singer is to be an open-minded observant and archivist of one’s own experience as well as other’s. How do you convey that in your performance?

Indeed, each note is an expression of the human condition. From the ancient times, the plays were meant to provide a form of therapy to the soul. In addition, having lived in Albania under harsh conditions, I have a personal insight into a deep dimension of love and sacrifice. Conveying this on stage with credibility and compassion is what brings the public back to the seats of the theater. Being vulnerable and imperfect, often perceived as weaknesses, are qualities that are most relatable and therefore universal in expressing our humanity.

-What separates the Cio-Cio San character as portrayed by you? How do you embody on stage the qualities that make her unique?

Mostly her passion and intense feelings of self-sacrifice and unconditional love which are defying qualities for Albanian women. These are the emotional keys that unlock Cio-Cio San’s soul. There are great voices by truly great performers of the title role. In my view, each note of Madama Butterfly stems from a heart that does not know how to hold back. In the context of intense love and pain, I have had some compelling role models from Albanian women throughout history and particularly from my mother. I proudly follow in their footsteps. In truth, much like Cio-Cio San, I am reserved yet on stage I feel like I am able to let go of my personal guard, and show her in all of the beautiful colors of her soul. Interestingly, as an Albanian woman I portray a Japanese female character precisely thanks to a powerful dichotomy that I saw embodied in my mother’s essence. She has incredible strength of character despite her delicate appearance. She is equally reserved and passionate; quiet and outspoken.

-When you are not singing opera, what music do you like to listen to? Do you have a favorite composer or song?

I listen to instrumental music of various composers in my spare time. I wish to play some folk songs from Southern Albania. I am still unable to go to the end of a folkloric song without tearing up. Most of my family members including my mother were singers of Polyphony songs. Each time I wish to relive memories of the past as a young adult in Albania through those songs, I am overwhelmed by emotions and nostalgia. As far as books, I am partial to Psychology and related subjects. I feel drawn to it as I try to explore and understand more the human psyche especially at times when the very core of humanity faces new challenges. In today’s world, there is a sense of dehumanization that needs to be addressed. In this regard, I am an incorrigible Carl Yung follower.

-How can opera as a classic art form compete -and even stay relevant- in the fast-paced present time driven by constant transition, and instant flow of communication?

Opera appeals to our true humanity in the sense that it values the spiritual over the materialistic properties. While the daily reality has lowered our sensibility towards tragic events, opera intensifies and overemphasizes experiencing such feelings, which connect us as humans. I hope that Opera will continue to maintain such high artistic standards and not be transformed into a business transaction. Its multi-dimensionality i.e. the music, the theater, the choreography, provide an emotional explosion of great multitude, which serves as a reminder of what it is that we are missing in our daily lives. It is a celebration of our human spirit in its purest form – that’s why opera is still here.

-Opera singers learn the lines of a specific character in the respective language of the libretto? Does it help to have deeper knowledge of the original language? More specifically, does speaking Italian as good as you do have an advantage in portraying Madama Butterfly?

Certainly. There are certain nuances and linguistic colorations that add flavor to the performance. I remember in the past, when I was performing a Greek ballad, I researched the pitch and emphasis of every word in detail, in order to give my best interpretation. Singing involves much more than one’s voice. I try to connect to the human spirit through my voice.

-What is your biggest accomplishment? What are you most proud of?

Staying positive while believing in diligence and persistence.

-What advise would you give to your younger self? What would you say to the 18 year old Ermonela today?

That stepping out of the comfort zone is the point when you would tap into opportunities that defy imagination. Your journey would be challenging and rewarding. Being different from your teenage friends, and having to rise above personal suffering, would teach you the value of hard work, would test your will and ultimately would bring you to live your dream. You would be tested by adversity a few times. Yet you shall overcome extreme hardships and episodes when you would be on the verge of abandoning your aspiration. Pursuing your dream through tremendous work and sacrifice is life’s true test. I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

As a guest speaker and a Master course instructor, I relay to my students the significance of rising above life’s circumstances. Experiencing hardship opens a window into the spirit of the artist that allows a deeper connection with our own humanity. Being imperfect and vulnerable while going through personal struggles are the qualities that resonate with the opera goers at any opera house, anytime, anywhere.

Good luck and much continues success!

(Rafaela Prifti)

NEW YORK: City Hall marks 10th anniversary of Kosova’s Independence

March 1, 2018 by dgreca

By Rafaela Prifti/ Dielli*/

1 Foto 1 City

(Foto: Halil Mula/*

February 27, 2018- US political representatives were joined by high-level government officials of Albania and Kosova and a number of community organizations in marking the first decade of Kosova’s independence. New York City Council Speaker Corey Johnson addressed the participants who were gathered at the Council Chambers decked with the colorful flags of New York, United States, Albania and Kosova. The Color Guard by the NYPD Illyrian Society of Law Enforcement set the ceremonial tone of the event. In attendance, there were a few Vatra members: Marjan Cubi, Mehill Gjuraj, Pashke Maksuti. The Invocation was performed by Father Peter Popaj. The main remarks delivered by Council Member Mark Gjonaj drew attention to the sacrifices of the Albanian-Americans to see Kosova free. During the war of 1999-2000, among the freedom fighters, there were three New Yorkers, known as the Bytyçi brothers who were honored at the celebration. Receiving the Proclamation on behalf of the late brothers were their parents and sibling Ilir Bytyçi, who stated that “whilst his brothers fought for this day to come, justice is not yet done”. In her remarks, Ambassador Teuta Sahatqija, the Consulate General of the Republic of Kosova, expressed optimism for Kosova’s future goals towards joining the UN and EU countries. The second Proclamation by the city was awarded to long time professional photographer and philanthropist Fadil Berisha for his contribution in advancing the Albanian culture and art.

After the presentations, Imam Edin Gjoni conducted the Benediction. Speaking as the event’s honoree, Congressman Eliot Engel assured the audience that the ties between the US and Kosova are long-lasting. The program ended with the performance of the Rozafati Dance Group dressed in vibrant traditional costumes.

Rafaela Prifti

For the full-length coverage of the event please read the Dielli issue of MARCH 2018.

Per me shume foto shkoni ne fb dielli vatra

RAFAELA PRIFTI, EDITORE E DIELLIT PER FAQET E ANGLISHTES

December 26, 2017 by dgreca

Kryetari i Vatrës z. Dritan Mishto, ka firmosur Vendimin për emrimin e gazetares Rafaela Prifti bashkë-editore e Gazetës Dielli, përgjegjëse për faqet në gjuhën angleze.

Në Vendimin që mban nr. 5 , datë 12 Dhjetor 2017, Shkruhet:

Në zbatim të Kanunores të Federatës Panshqiptare të Amerikës VATRA dhe me miratimin e Kryesisë, Vendosa:

1- Znj. Rafaela Prifti emërohet bashkë-ditore e Gazetës DIELLI, përgjegjëse për faqet në gjuhën angleze.

2- Ngarkohet Znj. Rafaela Prifti, që brenda një periudhe 90 ditore të paraqesë në Kryesi një projekt për vizionin e saj sa i përket seksionit të gjuhës angleze në Gazetën Dielli.

Ky Vendim hyn në fuqi menjëherë.

Kryetari

Dritan Mishto

Against All Odds!

December 19, 2017 by dgreca

1 ok rafaela

by Rafaela Prifti/

On a cold December night, a curious encounter compelled me to go the Public Theater. There, my unlikely odyssey led me to a disappointment and a discovery. Earlier that day, all bundled up, I had pulled my hood so far down my face, I had almost bumped into the standing poster on the sidewalk of Lafayette Street. Somewhat startled I stopped a few inches from hitting the side pole. I looked up and I read Illyria in big black letters. I admit that as an Albanian, I quickly identify the name with the land of my ancestors. Reacting in a stereotypical fashion, I automatically scanned the poster to see if the director, playwright or cast members appeared to be Albanian names. Nothing! The next thing I noticed was the date. Last show December 10! So it was that I returned to the theater the evening of the same day.

After being handed a headset and a playbill, I sat down and promptly started to read about the play in order to set my expectations with some caution. “Illyria -A Play in Three Scenes- Written and Directed by Richard Nelson” I turn the next page, The play takes place between April and August 1958 New York City. While still clinging to my national attachment to the name that is synonymous with Albanian heritage, I began to understand that its historical reference as well as geographical context would not be of importance! Indeed, the note by the Artistic Director, Oskar Eustis explained that Illyria pays homage to Joseph Papp, the founder of the New York Shakespeare Festival and eventually the Public Theater. A slight disappointment settles in. Admittedly, I was on a new learning ground. From the first to the last scene, the characters – all members of Joe’s crew – were intent on grappling with the challenges of keeping Shakespeare Festival alive while having to make personal choices about their careers, beliefs and family. Also in every scene, the naturalistic tone of communication among the members of the troupe contained no emotional outbursts or even the conventional projection of the actor’s voice. They simply talked and the audience listened.

And what I heard were issues of keeping art widely available to the public, dealing with commercialism and monopolization, and standing up to censorship while caring for a city that is ours, it belongs to all of us! The last scene began with Joe Papp as the troupe had just wrapped up performing Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night in the park. Sitting at the dilapidated flatbed trailer chatting with his friend, Bernie Gersten, another major real-life contributor to the city arts, Joe spoke of a dream that takes place in Illyria, the fantastic setting of Shakespeare’s comedy. The end! No climax, no resolution, no big finale!

A play about perseverance in the face of political and financial adversity, while advocating for the power of the theater as an essential cultural force! And it just may be the ‘first part’ of a bigger story. Critic Matt Windman writes that “Illyria” could conceivably act as the starting point for a series of plays depicting critical moments in the Public Theater’s history. It must be said that the outcome of Joe Papp;s vision for the theatrical landscape of the city has done well sixty years after the depicted time of the play. Shakespeare in the Park continues to be a celebrated tradition and at times thought-provoking experience, like last summer’s controversial production of Julius Caesar. The Public Theater has a year-round production schedule, and more than 300,000 theatergoers annually.

The writer and director of the play, Richard Nelson, relates that he settled on this title prompted by the description of Illyria in a letter written to Joe by an actor in the play, where he wrote: Illyria is a mythical country where strange and wonderful things happen.”

Thanks to the play, I discovered Illyria as a literary reference, and even a metaphor, if you will, for the democracy of the arts!

You are invited to share your thoughts here if you have seen the play.

1 Illyria