Rafaela Prifti – Page 51 – Dielli

IN THEIR WORDS

July 2, 2018 by dgreca

By Rafaela Prifti/

At the celebration of the 106th anniversary of the Pan-Albanian Federation Vatra, the recipients of the awards praised the organization for its role in the community and in the advancement of the national interest. While each one of them has a lasting individual relation with Vatra, all three delivered a similar message for the future in their acceptance speeches.

Doctor Elez Biberaj stated that “being honored by Vatra, this historic organization that has served as the center of patriotic activity of the Albanians of America and has provided a great contribution to the freedom, independence and democracy of our nation, is a great honor and privilege.”

He recognized the long-standing connection with Vatra going back to the beginnings of his career in journalism and media communication. In his acceptance speech, he thanked his family and expressed special gratitude to his parents, Hysen and Ajshe Biberaj, who nourished his pride and love for the nation, as well as the sense of duty to uphold the values of our beloved homeland.

On a personal note, Dr. Biberaj added that the timing of the Lifetime Achievement Award is more meaningful because it coincides with the 50th anniversary of his family’s immigration to America. His concluding remarks were “Our family is very fortunate to have achieved the American dream and for this we are very grateful to this blessed democratic country. The United States has given us the opportunity to be loyal American citizens and at the same time make a modest contribution to the aspirations of our nation for freedom, independence and democracy.”

As the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award, Professor Sami Repishti expressed gratitude for being acknowledged by Vatra on its 106th anniversary of its founding! As an Albanian-American, he said that he accepts the award with pride especially since “Vatra has been, is and will always remain “a second Albania in America” for me.” Praising the work of the older generation of Vatra’s members especially during the 45 years of the Communist regime, Professor Repishti noted that this victory is a precious ‘inheritance in our hands’.

With regards to the dynamics of the new century, he pointed out that “in the last three decades, starting in 1990, there has been a significant wave of new migration from Albania, Kosovo, Macedonia, Montenegro and Cameria. The result is a large, active and economically sound Albanian community in America. The future of Vatra is secured!”

Professor Sami Repishti reminded everyone that “the present day Vatra faces new tasks. The number of successful intellectuals and businessmen in our community means that there are opportunities for greater contributions in several areas.” Reflecting on the new composition, he presented the following points:

Knowing America’s history, respecting the Constitution and the laws of this great country, and embracing the values of liberty and justice for all. Let’s strengthen even more the Albanian-American ties. Secondly, safeguarding the Albanian language, the traditions of honor and hospitality, and especially the love for our homeland. Let’s open new Albanian schools, celebrate our national days, expand the writing and speaking of the Albanian language, and even represent our community in the local, state, and federal government. Mr. Mark Gjonaj is a good example! Thirdly, assisting Albanians in the Balkans where they truly need help to improve their difficult conditions. Also, standing up to defend the Albanian lands in the Balkans. Albania and Kosovo are small countries with great enemies both inside and outside the borders. The bonds that unite Albanians are stronger that the divisions that are imposed on us!

In the end, Professor Sami Repishti called on everyone to Join ‘Vatra’ Federation and stand by its Chairman and the dedicated editor of its newspaper in nurturing our love for the homeland.

Naum Prifti’s acceptance remarks started with a personal episode from his childhood that determined the course of his life as a writer in Albania. While he continued to create and his body of work became more known, there were rumors that hinted at ‘the convenience’ of two brothers writing on either side of the Atlantic Ocean: Peter Prifti in America and Naum Prifti in Albania. He noted that he remained on the path of writing though he was aware that some of his works would never be published there. “Since I was not considered trust-worthy to be allowed to travel outside of Albania’s borders, I crisscrossed every part of the country, North, South, East and West, and met with the farmer, the blue collar worker, the officer, the soldier, the shepherd and so on. I came face to face with the pain and the suffering, the folk tales and the legends, the humor and the tragedy but above all I came face to face with the Albanian spirit that has always fueled my writing.”

In reference to the post-communist era, the writer explained “Even when I came to the United States, there were still rumors about my loyalties. Again writing was my salvation. I poured my thoughts into new works of fiction and journalistic essays. After 70 years of being a writer, I have no reason to alter or edit any of my works because I have been true to myself.

Naum Prifti’s enduring relationship with Vatra began shortly after his arrival in New York in the early 1900s. “I joined Vatra in the position of Secretary under the Chairmanship of Agim Karagjozi.”

In his conclusion, Naum Prifti stated that “Vatra’s strength is not measured in its monetary funds but in the hearts of the dedicated members that are guided by the highest national ideals. This anniversary is a confirmation of Vatra’s steadfastness. Vatra is the HEARTH that DOES NOT EXPIRE!”

HUMANITY OVER POLITICS

June 2, 2018 by dgreca

‘Baptism’ in New York/

By Rafaela Prifti/

The screening of the documentary ‘Baptism’ at the Center for Jewish History in New York brought in visitors of different nationalities and ethnic backgrounds with an appreciation for history as well as film. Several community and religious leaders were present at the premiere. Vatra was well-represented by Vice Chairman Agim Rexhaj, Treasurer Marjan Cubi etc. The RTK (Radio Television of Kosova) production came to the big screen on May 15. The event was timed well with an historic date for Israel, i.e. May 14 marks the establishment of the state of Israel. According to the US Department of State archives, US. President Harry S. Truman recognized the new nation on the same day. Office of the Historian, US Department of State, 1945-1952) It is note-worthy that Kosova is not recognized by Israel. Yet the cultural and educational ties promoted in joint events that celebrate the human virtues are certainly a step ahead of politics.

While Albania has established its status as the safe haven for the Jews during the Second World War, the survival stories from Kosova are coming to light thanks to such a production by the Public Service Broadcaster, RTK. Representatives of the production team, Mentor Shala and Ridvan Berisha addressed the New York audience promising more future projects with an international impact. The documentary is filmed, produced and directed by Mumin Jashari. Through personal narrative, interviews in Kosova and Jerusalem and some reenacted scenes, the story of survival at the outbreak of World War II is emotional as well as hope inducing. In his interview with Dielli, the Executive Director of the American Sephardi Federation, Jason Guberman said: “Beyond this one case, the documentary speaks to the power of principled, determined individuals to overcome even the most all-encompassing evil. With more than 70 Albanians recognized by Yad VaShem as “Righteous among the Nations” and many more, who may never be identified, but undoubtedly deserving of that title, this legacy of Besa is one that we must honor and share as a model for future generations.” Echoing that sentiment, the Counsel General of the Republic of Kosova in New York, Teuta Sahatqija, spoke of the importance of the message that such survival stories bring to us today. On that note, Mr. Guberman noted that “In marked contrast to the Nazis, Nazi collaborators and indifferent masses, Albanians were rescuers and protectors of their Jewish neighbors and refugees during the Shoah.” (Shoah –destruction- is a respectful Hebrew word chosen by the victims which refers to the character of what happened to them) As Serbia fell under the Nazis, Shaul’s family crossed the border to Skopje, which was soon annexed by Bulgaria. Once again his caretaker passed the border crossing with Macedonia into South East Kosova. There they found shelter and safety in the village of Letnice, which is also known as a pilgrimage site.

Speaking of the partnership with the Center for Jewish History, Jason Guberman stated: “The American Sephardi Federation was honored to partner with the Republic of Kosovo’s Consulate in New York to host the NY premiere screening of the documentary describing how Albanians saved a young Sephardic boy from Belgrade by sheltering him in Kosova for the duration of the war. The Albanian village of Letnica was a rare refuge for Shaul amidst the horrors of the Holocaust, which consumed his family.” When it comes to persecution based on ethnicity, religion and social identity, Kosova’s Albanians have had first-hand experience. Rabbi Bob Kaplan of the Center for Jewish History placed emphasis on “telling these important stories of being accountable and rising up against evil as we move forward.” Shaul Gatenjo is one of the Jews that escaped the Nazi extermination that claimed the lives of his family members. After the war, Saul was reunited with his grandmother’s sister and traveled to Israel in 1948. In 2018, seventy years later, the touching story is narrated by Shaul and documented justly by Mumin Jashari’s camera in the RTK production “The Baptism”. The reception was overwhelmingly positive and eager for more.

Editor’s Note: Yad VaShem – Israel’s official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust.

VATRA JOINS THE COMMUNITY IN CELEBRATING THE 75th ANNIVERSARY OF SAINT NICHOLAS ORTHODOX CHURCH

May 21, 2018 by dgreca

By Rafaela Prifti/

MAY 19 – The parishioners and guests gathered to celebrate three quarters of a century of prayer at St. Nicholas Orthodox Church as Archbishop Nikon blessed the temple and most importantly the people of the community. A delegation of senior Vatra representatives included Chairman Dritan Mishto and Board Members Marjan Cubi and Zef Balaj. The presence of the civic leaders and diplomatic corps was recognized by Father Niko. Special thanks were given to Imam Tahiri who attended the prayers and to Father Popaj who was unable to be present but sent his greetings. Saturday morning service is part of an ongoing celebration of the physical renewal the building as well as the spiritual appreciation for the Church’s lasting legacy.

Initially located in Manhattan, the Church has moved to its current location in the Jamaica Estates area of Queens in 1970. The Project of Beautification that began last year has provided new floors and walls and an upgrade of the interior. As stated in the flyer prepared for the occasion, the restoration and preservation of the icons are an important part of the Church’s heritage and inheritance. The credit for repairing and restoring the original icons of the parish goes to a seasoned restoration artist Edmond Agalliu. Additionally, he has completed four new icons that adorn the walls. Three opening for large new icons and four portable icons are available for sponsorship that has the option of being acknowledged with an inscription. “Whether memorials or tributes or requests for prayer, these additional icons will stand for many, many more years incorporated into the life of worship and praise here at St. Nicholas Church.” confirms the brochure.

To begin the celebration of seventy-five years of prayer and service, Archbishop Nikon blessed the Project of Beautification that began last year. The reading of the liturgical passages and the swearing of the officers of the Parish Council were carried out ceremonially. His eminence delivered the service with a clear message: Be thankful for the church and be thankful for one another. The church is not a building, the church is the people, the church is YOU!

After the ceremony, I was about to head out of the building in the pouring rain of Saturday afternoon. The Parish Council Chair, James Liolin, insisted on providing a safe and dry ride to my next destination. Through a random act of kindness outside the church, I understood that its community lives by the words it preaches.
During this year, the Church will celebrate through several events. Its past, present and the future it represents will be documented in a Commemorative 75th Anniversary Journal.

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)