THE BRONX - A 49-year-old man has died after a hit-and-run accident in Fordham.
Loved ones say Alfonzo Melendez was
not far from home when he was mowed down Thursday night at the Grand
Concourse and East 184th Street.
The husband and father of three was
rushed to Saint Barnabas Hospital where he was listed in critical
condition through the night.
Chimp attack victim denied $150M lawsuit against Conn.
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — A Connecticut woman disfigured in a chimpanzee
attack was denied permission Friday to sue the state for $150 million.The state is immune to lawsuits unless they're allowed by state Claims Commissioner J. Paul Vance Jr., who denied permission and announced his decision in a news release.
Charla Nash was blinded, lost both hands and underwent a face transplant after being mauled in Stamford in 2009. She reached a $4 million settlement last year with the estate of chimp owner Sandra Herold, who died in 2010.
Her lawyer said the state should be held responsible for not seizing the animal before the attack, because it was warned the animal was dangerous. State Attorney General George Jepsen said the state shouldn't be held liable for the mauling.
Nash, 59, had gone to Herold's home on the day of the attack to help lure her friend's 200-pound chimpanzee, Travis, back inside. But the chimp went berserk and ripped off Nash's nose, lips, eyelids and hands before being shot to death by a police officer. Nash now lives in a nursing home outside Boston.
Travis had starred in TV commercials for Old Navy and Coca-Cola when he was younger and made an appearance on The Maury Povich Show. The chimpanzee was the constant companion of the widowed Herold and was fed steak, lobster and ice cream. The chimp could eat at the table, drink wine from a stemmed glass, use the toilet, and bathe and dress itself.
Travis had previously bitten another woman's hand and tried to drag her into a car in 1996, bit a man's thumb two years later and roamed downtown Stamford for hours in 2003 before being captured after escaping from Herold's home, according to Nash's lawsuit against Herold.
The $4 million settlement covers a small fraction of Nash's medical costs, according to her lawyers, who have said she requires care and supervision around the clock. She is facing another surgery for hand transplants and will need to be on antibiotics for the rest of her life.
Nash holds the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection responsible for not seizing the animal before the attack despite a state biologist's warning it was dangerous.
"I hope and pray that the commissioner will give me my day in court," Nash told reporters following a hearing last year before Vance. "And I also pray that I hope this never happens to anyone else again. It is not nice."
State Attorney General George Jepsen has said the state should not be held liable for the mauling. He has acknowledged that a state biologist had warned that the chimp was "an accident waiting to happen" before the attack. But Jepsen said state law on the issue was ambiguous and difficult to enforce, and there was no guarantee a court hearing would have led to a seizure order.
Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
President Obama's journey to Africa
Presidential trips are expensive, and President Obama's journey to Africa this month will in no way be an exception.The Washington Post estimates that Obama's Africa trip could cost $60 million to $100 million, citing a person familiar with the details who cited previous presidential missions to Africa.
A more precise estimate is impossible because details about the president's security are classified.
"The infrastructure that accompanies the president's travels is beyond our control," Ben Rhodes, Obama's deputy national security adviser for strategic communication, told the Post. "The security requirements are not White House-driven, they are Secret Service-driven."
The Post reported:
"Hundreds of U.S. Secret Service agents will be dispatched to secure facilities in Senegal, South Africa and Tanzania. A Navy aircraft carrier or amphibious ship, with a fully staffed medical trauma center, will be stationed offshore in case of an emergency.
"Military cargo planes will airlift in 56 support vehicles, including 14 limousines and three trucks loaded with sheets of bulletproof glass to cover the windows of the hotels where the first family will stay. Fighter jets will fly in shifts, giving 24-hour coverage over the president's airspace, so they can intervene quickly if an errant plane gets too close.
"The elaborate security provisions -- which will cost the government tens of millions of dollars -- are outlined in a confidential internal planning document obtained by The Washington Post.
"While the preparations appear to be in line with similar travels in the past, the document offers an unusual glimpse into the colossal efforts to protect the U.S. commander in chief on trips abroad."
Children
As in all developed countries, as well as in developing countries, the number of divorces is increasing. However, this growth ç'tregon? Weakening of family ties or crisis of marriage and marital relations, social prestige decline of marriage and family? Character closely based on motives which created marriage and family? High degree of emancipation of family or marital relationships skepticism about the future of the family itself?
If we say that this or that is the reason, it would be wrong, because the reasons are so general that vary from place to place and time. Social researchers, have long been looking for an answer as full of arguing the question. As a starting point for divorce studies, conducted almost throughout the twentieth century, served thesis that the divorce rate is high there when the level of social integration is low. Among the indicators of the degree of social integration and therefore affects the divorce, is the rate of population change, stability, or the opposite: not its stability, migration, urbanization level, etc..
In the transition through which Kosovo society is undergoing, as was easily converted from a traditional society to an open society and consumption of western values without increasing attention in the selection of positive values on the one hand, and on the other, without being economically prepared as family and society.
In the past (traditional family), the family's role was crucial in solving marital problems. Now, as if solving marital problems that lead to separation are barely making its responsibility couple. Thus, the role of the family is greatly diminished in solving problems, especially in urban areas, especially couples with a high degree of education and emancipation etc..
Such changes have to be made that much easier to reach the final decision to divorce. In this case, create gaps in domestic and indelible effect on family life. So, divorce is a whole process, long and complex crosses in a series of stages or stages (paranderja, sharing, adaptability, shuffle, and remarriage), each presents different problems for the divorced and separate families.
With the implementation of the study in 2007, we managed to understand the consequences of divorce are many and varied, depending on the economic situation of the divorced couple and their age.
The difficult social and economic situation in the country even further burdens the lives of divorced couples and their children, or feminine, given the low level of education, high unemployment rate, which brought a grim perspective for the divorced - especially for women. Meanwhile, most of the consequences that come into consideration after divorce, are: reduced reproductive capacity of women, remarriage waiver, waiver of births in remarriage, the appearance of stress, boredom, inadequate child care, low success lessons to children and divorced parents in the end the spread of negative phenomena such as prostitution, drugs, alcohol and other phenomena.
According to sociological studies, women are the ones who suffer the most in terms of economic view, which this is most evident in the society and in the majority of cases the divorced wife goes into becoming sex family burden. While psychological and social point of view, numerous studies have shown that adaptation is the same for both sexes.
In the last decade in Kosovo, divorce has seen a significant increase. Furthermore, if we compare the beginning and end of the past decade then tripled (in 2000 it was 3:33 per cent). During the study conducted (2007), we come to conclusions that vitin1970 every married couple shkurorëzohej 44, while in 2007 every 11th wedded couple divorced. These results indicate that indeed the increased divorce rate in Kosovo. Studies are focused and in other indications which lead to divorce, separation, respectively, such as entering a new age of marriage, differences by age and level of education, the employment rate of men and women, personal income, marital alternatives, symptoms of depression, lifestyle before and after marriage husband wife especially etc..
Dissolution phenomena as part of every society, where less with more pronounced. However, as we noted above, the reasons for divorce vary from country to country. Take for example the U.S., one of the countries largest industrialized, where the number of divorces is very large, which has high impact economic development and social.
While other countries, such as Canada, etc.., Which by law have allowed divorce easier, have also contributed to the increase in the number of divorces. But these are not the only factors that have contributed to the increasing number of divorce. Have the greatest impact wars. World War II, eg destroyed many families. In Britain, in 1974, divorces increased tenfold compared with paraluftën.
While in Kosovo society, the study conducted has shown that the main causes that lead to divorce are: adultery presented as one of the main causes that lead to divorce, inadequacy of characters, family implications (mix of other members in the conjugal life). .. No small impact immigration has also, unfavorable economic situation and other cases. One of the reasons very present and important in the divorce of couples in Kosovo is the presence of domestic violence, particularly violence against women by the spouse or other family members of the husband.
Life of divorced persons in the context of our society, followed by an impact of stigma and social isolation of their own and their families, especially against women. Woman in traditional families, and less nowadays, is deprived of the right to contact her children, and is denied by many social privileges, being isolated inside the house most of the time. While her family is labeled in various forms from the district for a long time.
In conclusion, adjusting to life after divorce is a link that is experienced by divorced seriously, especially by female parents, especially those who have left their children. Separation from parents to children is very heavy, especially by female she experienced severe. Who will care for the children? Do you have to eat and drink? All these come as the weakening health of mothers and in most cases make their life without prospects. This happens in Kosovo, the fact that the state of social and economic heavily in special cases patriarkalist mentality has prevented women take charge of the care of her children.
If we say that this or that is the reason, it would be wrong, because the reasons are so general that vary from place to place and time. Social researchers, have long been looking for an answer as full of arguing the question. As a starting point for divorce studies, conducted almost throughout the twentieth century, served thesis that the divorce rate is high there when the level of social integration is low. Among the indicators of the degree of social integration and therefore affects the divorce, is the rate of population change, stability, or the opposite: not its stability, migration, urbanization level, etc..
In the transition through which Kosovo society is undergoing, as was easily converted from a traditional society to an open society and consumption of western values without increasing attention in the selection of positive values on the one hand, and on the other, without being economically prepared as family and society.
In the past (traditional family), the family's role was crucial in solving marital problems. Now, as if solving marital problems that lead to separation are barely making its responsibility couple. Thus, the role of the family is greatly diminished in solving problems, especially in urban areas, especially couples with a high degree of education and emancipation etc..
Such changes have to be made that much easier to reach the final decision to divorce. In this case, create gaps in domestic and indelible effect on family life. So, divorce is a whole process, long and complex crosses in a series of stages or stages (paranderja, sharing, adaptability, shuffle, and remarriage), each presents different problems for the divorced and separate families.
With the implementation of the study in 2007, we managed to understand the consequences of divorce are many and varied, depending on the economic situation of the divorced couple and their age.
The difficult social and economic situation in the country even further burdens the lives of divorced couples and their children, or feminine, given the low level of education, high unemployment rate, which brought a grim perspective for the divorced - especially for women. Meanwhile, most of the consequences that come into consideration after divorce, are: reduced reproductive capacity of women, remarriage waiver, waiver of births in remarriage, the appearance of stress, boredom, inadequate child care, low success lessons to children and divorced parents in the end the spread of negative phenomena such as prostitution, drugs, alcohol and other phenomena.
According to sociological studies, women are the ones who suffer the most in terms of economic view, which this is most evident in the society and in the majority of cases the divorced wife goes into becoming sex family burden. While psychological and social point of view, numerous studies have shown that adaptation is the same for both sexes.
In the last decade in Kosovo, divorce has seen a significant increase. Furthermore, if we compare the beginning and end of the past decade then tripled (in 2000 it was 3:33 per cent). During the study conducted (2007), we come to conclusions that vitin1970 every married couple shkurorëzohej 44, while in 2007 every 11th wedded couple divorced. These results indicate that indeed the increased divorce rate in Kosovo. Studies are focused and in other indications which lead to divorce, separation, respectively, such as entering a new age of marriage, differences by age and level of education, the employment rate of men and women, personal income, marital alternatives, symptoms of depression, lifestyle before and after marriage husband wife especially etc..
Dissolution phenomena as part of every society, where less with more pronounced. However, as we noted above, the reasons for divorce vary from country to country. Take for example the U.S., one of the countries largest industrialized, where the number of divorces is very large, which has high impact economic development and social.
While other countries, such as Canada, etc.., Which by law have allowed divorce easier, have also contributed to the increase in the number of divorces. But these are not the only factors that have contributed to the increasing number of divorce. Have the greatest impact wars. World War II, eg destroyed many families. In Britain, in 1974, divorces increased tenfold compared with paraluftën.
While in Kosovo society, the study conducted has shown that the main causes that lead to divorce are: adultery presented as one of the main causes that lead to divorce, inadequacy of characters, family implications (mix of other members in the conjugal life). .. No small impact immigration has also, unfavorable economic situation and other cases. One of the reasons very present and important in the divorce of couples in Kosovo is the presence of domestic violence, particularly violence against women by the spouse or other family members of the husband.
Life of divorced persons in the context of our society, followed by an impact of stigma and social isolation of their own and their families, especially against women. Woman in traditional families, and less nowadays, is deprived of the right to contact her children, and is denied by many social privileges, being isolated inside the house most of the time. While her family is labeled in various forms from the district for a long time.
In conclusion, adjusting to life after divorce is a link that is experienced by divorced seriously, especially by female parents, especially those who have left their children. Separation from parents to children is very heavy, especially by female she experienced severe. Who will care for the children? Do you have to eat and drink? All these come as the weakening health of mothers and in most cases make their life without prospects. This happens in Kosovo, the fact that the state of social and economic heavily in special cases patriarkalist mentality has prevented women take charge of the care of her children.
time
At a time when our strengths and capabilities should be more united and consolidated to accelerate the development of the state, they get some figures that are doing their own race to promote themselves. However, this increase tendentiousness is causing tension in our environments, ranging from the environment to the houses of parliament in rural areas, to try to understand what is intended by this campaign.
Ways of expression and the interpretation or misinterpretation, regardless of what character or what kind it is, can not be left adrift. Intentionally or unintentionally, with or without sufficient planning, interpretations or misinterpretations which are estimated to have been devastating for the individual or society, are not welcome in any time period and the maximum should be avoided especially in the crucial period, as it seeks a focus on our top priorities towards a European values.
It is quite paradoxical approach of thinking and expression to social values in our country. Since all dream and wish our country to be strong and planted precious values and our country to be a country like other European countries that are developed and have a high capital human values. This compass is explicit, but what we do and how we each contribute to realizing these aspirations and to point out what I did today in this regard. Sometimes going to abandon this aim and fire at each other not only deconstructive criticism and act behind the scenes to defeat one or the other and triumphal exit at the expense of the generality.
The tendency to generalize phenomena and phenomena that we appear before our eyes, and ngufatin us are forgetting that even deviant cases of serious and honest politicians, nor by religious clerics loyal, and do not need to get any support for The ugly phenomenon is simply baffling action or transient fever. Our nation has gone through this kind of fever in other periods, but always knew how to channel to view and act in a spirit of peaceful and maintain unity among themselves even in the most critical moments. So the forces of sound and sober mind not call black white or vice versa.
With this logic presented arguments and controversies between individuals with different political orientations or religious, should not be tougher, but insteadof
the need to co-own capacity to judge right and reasonable to each occurrence. Duties and obligations are separate and should be understood that the people elected members are representatives of the people and should be respected as politicians who are charged with the mission of leading the country. Whereas religious clergy has an obligation to deal with its own domain and his statements are primarily religious institutions in accordance with the state leadership.
It goes without saying that worry if faced with deviant cases, but state bodies and institutions that have the authority and, if an action is considered deviant then taken to punishment.
It is clear to all honest citizens to society before any form deviated worry, but not this be cause to create an unfavorable atmosphere. Of course, all citizens should contribute to the national values and act in accordance with the state government system. This alignment of objectives is necessary and mandatory for each party and each citizen that would benefit the state.
Always in Kosovo we need people who are pragmatic and see the country needs to strengthen and establish this new country that has emerged from the ashes of war that cost the blood, and suffering wounds outstanding. Therefore, each one of us should contribute to defuse tensions and create a form of dialogue in the interest of good and duhurës, needs and requirements.Comments, interpretations or misinterpretations of free time and time over the place for this or that phenomenon, could harm our major interest in strengthening the state values.
Melisa got baby
In
Drenica shown a mess when they met Tsar Sultan discussed what performs
more work in politics "of lemja" (talent) or "bought" (schools,
training)?. Cari told us that it was allegedly the "BOUGHT" and was allegedly the Sultan told us that it is "lemja".
Tsar, to argue his claim, we ordered was allegedly the monkey trained to serve with coffee. Sultan, given the weakness of the monkey out of the box was allegedly the miush and somewhat thrown to the ground ape tray with the Tsar and Sultan cafes and Mouse which allegedly fallen behind.
Thus can be explained the success of the Prime Minister to set up for his political rivals. It may even be said that regulate more work than fellow rivals his own.
For this remarkable gift was a distant cousin of Hashim Thaci, Ahmet Zogu, who are using these skills be reached King of Albania.
No rare bird when was the difficult political situation, his rivals were those who disclose the crisis.
Hashim Thaci is in a difficult situation after signing the agreement with Dacic. The latter every day more and more are making the deal raises inform the public that the signing was only a mock Thaci.
If this is not enough, at this time, Thaci also found trouble within his own party: pa4alajmërimi of abandonment by the duo (Krasniqi) and triplet (Fatmir Limaj) of his party yesterday.
It was expected that rivals the tassels of Hashim Thaci: Self-determination, and intellectuals around Veton Surroi, jumped to his neck, Thaci through Çitaku was "dismissed Mouse" and they forgot Hashim Thaci and taken to Prizren imam, Irfan Salih.
Thus, Çitaku produced theme through which most of the hassle caused by the female members of the opposition ranks.
While this debate is taking place, Hashim Thaçi comfort to present both sides as extremist who "is in need of his democratic governance". One party to the other party and religious fundamentalists as political fundamentalists. While they share slurs, insults and threats between them, Thaci met with U.S. Vice President Joe Biden and CIA chief.
Irfan Salihu imam's speech was actually a sermon that usually make the other clerics, the priests, and rabbis.
In fact, the topic of Prizren imam preaches, is more liberal Islam, Christianity and Judaism. The Catholics, for example, not only allowed sexual life before marriage, but divorce is not even allowed. Fornication is not allowed in Islam, but allowed divorce. Allowed to move from fornication, and return to the path of God. Prophet Muhammad himself was married to the widow woman.
The fact that the imam of Prizren trying to tell things as simple, was sawn in slippage. Said promiscuous women should be disposed of Meck. Hoxha forget that Islam is a religion that does not allow mistreatment of animals. It was a slippage of the imam, but this kind of slippage often do we all. Even imam and err is human. In the end everyone pays the price for his mistakes. Just pay the mistakes of politicians and those who vote for them.
When I was an Israeli, I met a rabbi, which introduced me as a moderate man. His claim was that Arab women are more promiscuous than Jewish women and argued that the frequency of sermons on the matter. Telling me that Imam Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem rarely speaks to the congregation about what life is sexual sin before marriage, compared with his sermons in his synagogue.
I had asked some students what they learn Serbian Serbian Orthodox priests who are paid by the Government of the Republic of Kosovo as teach religious education in schools in Kosovo Serb. You know what was the answer? We are told not to eat too much, ndërpremë to get enough food before and that girls are more honest Christian than Muslim.
It seems Çitaku even other deputies, heads do not care why Muslim women are insulted by priests who receive salaries from the Kosovo budget.
However, the imam of Prizren speech deserved no more than a response to animal protection associations or even a reprimand from a colleague of his to be reminded that Islam prohibits mistreatment of animals, including Meck here.
In all this mess she was hit in the most brutal way that Alma Lama. Her reaction was followed by insult not only to her but also to her country of origin, these things should not allow as a society.
One can agree with, and someone may not agree with it, but it must not be abused. It represents thousands of citizens, because it is not elected by MPs stolen as many others. Many of these votes that may not have them at the next election, precisely because he was in the trap of Çitaku or because showed a dislike for preachers, but also can get votes from those who have not voted the first time for this presentation of it. It remains to be seen.
Every politician pays the price for what they did. We have to admit that the infidels are part of our society, even though Article 9 of the Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo says that "The Republic of Kosovo ensures the preservation and protection of its cultural heritage and religion."
The conclusion of this is that while intellectuals meseleje about Veton Surroi have committed schools and sell the image of the West, while many clerics have become famous schools in the East, out of all these "bought" versus "lemes" (innate talent) Hashim Thaci, who shall lay Mouse whenever its interests are threatened.
Tsar, to argue his claim, we ordered was allegedly the monkey trained to serve with coffee. Sultan, given the weakness of the monkey out of the box was allegedly the miush and somewhat thrown to the ground ape tray with the Tsar and Sultan cafes and Mouse which allegedly fallen behind.
Thus can be explained the success of the Prime Minister to set up for his political rivals. It may even be said that regulate more work than fellow rivals his own.
For this remarkable gift was a distant cousin of Hashim Thaci, Ahmet Zogu, who are using these skills be reached King of Albania.
No rare bird when was the difficult political situation, his rivals were those who disclose the crisis.
Hashim Thaci is in a difficult situation after signing the agreement with Dacic. The latter every day more and more are making the deal raises inform the public that the signing was only a mock Thaci.
If this is not enough, at this time, Thaci also found trouble within his own party: pa4alajmërimi of abandonment by the duo (Krasniqi) and triplet (Fatmir Limaj) of his party yesterday.
It was expected that rivals the tassels of Hashim Thaci: Self-determination, and intellectuals around Veton Surroi, jumped to his neck, Thaci through Çitaku was "dismissed Mouse" and they forgot Hashim Thaci and taken to Prizren imam, Irfan Salih.
Thus, Çitaku produced theme through which most of the hassle caused by the female members of the opposition ranks.
While this debate is taking place, Hashim Thaçi comfort to present both sides as extremist who "is in need of his democratic governance". One party to the other party and religious fundamentalists as political fundamentalists. While they share slurs, insults and threats between them, Thaci met with U.S. Vice President Joe Biden and CIA chief.
Irfan Salihu imam's speech was actually a sermon that usually make the other clerics, the priests, and rabbis.
In fact, the topic of Prizren imam preaches, is more liberal Islam, Christianity and Judaism. The Catholics, for example, not only allowed sexual life before marriage, but divorce is not even allowed. Fornication is not allowed in Islam, but allowed divorce. Allowed to move from fornication, and return to the path of God. Prophet Muhammad himself was married to the widow woman.
The fact that the imam of Prizren trying to tell things as simple, was sawn in slippage. Said promiscuous women should be disposed of Meck. Hoxha forget that Islam is a religion that does not allow mistreatment of animals. It was a slippage of the imam, but this kind of slippage often do we all. Even imam and err is human. In the end everyone pays the price for his mistakes. Just pay the mistakes of politicians and those who vote for them.
When I was an Israeli, I met a rabbi, which introduced me as a moderate man. His claim was that Arab women are more promiscuous than Jewish women and argued that the frequency of sermons on the matter. Telling me that Imam Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem rarely speaks to the congregation about what life is sexual sin before marriage, compared with his sermons in his synagogue.
I had asked some students what they learn Serbian Serbian Orthodox priests who are paid by the Government of the Republic of Kosovo as teach religious education in schools in Kosovo Serb. You know what was the answer? We are told not to eat too much, ndërpremë to get enough food before and that girls are more honest Christian than Muslim.
It seems Çitaku even other deputies, heads do not care why Muslim women are insulted by priests who receive salaries from the Kosovo budget.
However, the imam of Prizren speech deserved no more than a response to animal protection associations or even a reprimand from a colleague of his to be reminded that Islam prohibits mistreatment of animals, including Meck here.
In all this mess she was hit in the most brutal way that Alma Lama. Her reaction was followed by insult not only to her but also to her country of origin, these things should not allow as a society.
One can agree with, and someone may not agree with it, but it must not be abused. It represents thousands of citizens, because it is not elected by MPs stolen as many others. Many of these votes that may not have them at the next election, precisely because he was in the trap of Çitaku or because showed a dislike for preachers, but also can get votes from those who have not voted the first time for this presentation of it. It remains to be seen.
Every politician pays the price for what they did. We have to admit that the infidels are part of our society, even though Article 9 of the Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo says that "The Republic of Kosovo ensures the preservation and protection of its cultural heritage and religion."
The conclusion of this is that while intellectuals meseleje about Veton Surroi have committed schools and sell the image of the West, while many clerics have become famous schools in the East, out of all these "bought" versus "lemes" (innate talent) Hashim Thaci, who shall lay Mouse whenever its interests are threatened.
Stephen Schwartz: Përjetësisht, me shqiptarët
If it was not John Sinishta will not know anything about Albanians. But, if they were Albanians, today it would be a trivial news journalist, with a huge gap in the soul. Stephen
Suleyman Schwartz, a journalist and author of many popular books in the
Telegraph interview, talks about his life and Albanians. He even plans to move quickly from California's beautiful to live in Kosovo.
Interview: Daut Dauti
The beginnings of an eternal friendship
Telegraph: Mr. Schwartz, recognized as a friend of the Albanians. How was your relationship with Albanians?Schwartz: First, let me thank you for the great compliment that brought me saying that I am recognized as a friend of the Albanians. This is of great value to me.
My Reports with Albanians began in 1990, when I met John Sinishtën - publisher exiled Albanian Catholic Bulletin - in San Francisco, where we both lived. I had just visited Croatia, a country that had held the first elections in post-communist. John knew from my writings in The San Francisco Chronicle - where I worked as a journalist for the daily news - that was critical of Slobodan Milosevic, so I was a friend and a potential contributor to his work.
I was not Catholic, but a believer in God in an abstract sense. Then I had no formal religion. In 1997 I became a Muslim, that is my religion and my religion first and last Insha'Allah. However, I was and I remain a friend of Catholics, because in many countries they were most active opponents of communism.
John asked me to work with him in his publication, which I have done for six years, until he died in 1995. During the first year has paid off, but after that I said that there is no need anymore, asking him to teach me everything you know about a Catholic priest culture and our history. John was educated to become a priest, but was never confirmed as such, since he left Albania. He became "my second father," helping me in my personal crisis and bringing stability and inspiration in my life for which I am deeply grateful.
Ideological transformation
Telegraph: You - and most of them were leftists during the 60s and 70s of the last century - have passed the scarcity of neocons. What happened with you and others? How and why you doing this "battalion" and converted to Islam?Schwartz: I am separated from the left and I do neoconservative mainly because of what I saw in Nicaragua in 1984. I went deeper into neoconservatism - from Trotskyism - because I hated the situation in which communism had degenerated to which I believe.
In this aspect should be taken into account and export tyranny in Cuba's communist Grenada, Nicaragua and El Salvador, Cuban and Russian imperialism in Africa, the invasion of Afghanistan; cultural powerlessness of socialist countries - but some sparks in Poland, Czechoslovakia and the former Yugoslavia. Like the end of the Soviet regime and was able to make contact with anyone who has this purpose - but fascists.
Asked political alliance with neoconservatives on foreign policy, refuted him in order to support dictators and intelligent intervention, for what the U.S. reaction to Kosovo was an example.
American and British Conservatives have been the first-line advocates for Bosnia and Kosovo, but also in Kuwait, the Chechens and other Muslims oppressed.
Today only neoconservatives support the Chechens, Uighurs attacked by the Chinese and Muslims who are oppressed by Burma Rohingias.
This does not mean that I agree with all those neoconservatives who believe or do. Political alliances, however, has its limits.
Majtizmi radical movement of neoconservatism has been more common in Europe than in the U.S.. Despite not worry Europeans, Americans are primitive in these matters and political changes have doubts.
Known Spanish journalist, Pablo Pardo, commented on this issue as follows: "American writer and journalist Stephen Schwartz ... is a copy of the ideological evolution of the world in recent decades ... Schwartz intellectual program in a particular reproduces the evolution of the West "(Pablo Pardo, El Mundo [Madrid], November 8, 2007).
Since 1984 they have spent 30 years of that time as a journalist I have reported and studied the collapse of the former Yugoslavia. I am a Muslim in Bosnia in 1997, when vrojtova oath of Muslim Bosnians who swear that they will never make them Serbs what they had done them Muslims. Having read the Koran in a manner relevant to the circumstances Islamic, said: "This is my religion."
I'm not "converted" because conversion means a change of religion. I previously did not have religion, unless considered "religion of Satan" - communism.
Nobel impossible
Telegraph: Have proven knowledge and love for literature and culture in general. What prompted you to have respect and be involved in this field?Schwartz: In a way I answered this question by describing my meeting with John Sinishtën. After working with him, I learned about Catholic writers of Shkodra, the history of literacy slip, the role of the great collectors of ballads, for inspiring events of the Renaissance, to attempt the defense of freedom from fascism and communism during World War II World of groups like the National Balli, the role of liberation and Enlightenment Bektashi in Albania, Kosovo to fight against Serbian imperialism ... In short: everything important to Albanians.
As I have often said, I know that Albanians are grateful to the Americans for their support against foreign occupants, especially for Woodrow Wilson to stop sharing is today Albania from Greece, Serbia and Italy, to Bill Clinton that defended Kosovo and George W. Bush to recognize its independence. While I am grateful Albanians who saved from boredom, the cynicism, and the invalidity of life as a news reporter.
If it were not Albanians, will spend life as a journalist trivial news that people will read them and forget them. I could die as a loser. But, yet not represent failure.
Never in my entire life did I think that I'll have the chance to work for tolerance, for justice, for human understanding. Albanians gave me something to think, to feel and to write to the excess of existential nothingness of everyday life.
Telegraph: Are you known as a fierce critic against Ismail Kadare and as someone who writes articles unfavorable global media whenever Kadare nominated for the Nobel Prize for Literature. Where do you base this refusal and why keep this attitude?Schwartz: First, it is inaccurate claim that I write articles about Kadare unfavorable global media whenever he nominated for the Nobel Prize. He was nominated for the Nobel Prize every year, unfortunately by his fans and other ignorant people who do not understand that lobbying for the Nobel Prize is a futile effort and that there was never Nobel prizes are given to potential recipients from "multiple betting lists". They are always surprises. And, if there is anything in the world of literature that is not novel or surprising, it is attempted Ismail Kadare and his gang to receive the Nobel Prize.
I have written to for several years, because I understand that he will never get the Nobel Prize. His work is very poor. However, I understand that many Albanians consider it as their single figure important on the world stage, and they are humiliated by my criticism against him. This is one of the reasons why I ceased to write.
As Enver Hoxha, as Ismail Kadare
However, I consider it as a form of aggression, the Albanians believe that the Nobel Prize bestowed as a colonial medal for unknown writers from poor countries, and that Kadare will get it because inevitably Albanian language and literature are unknown and that Albanians are poor! Theory of Literature Nobel Prizes were awarded to the authors that "many people have not heard", reflects the general illiteracy of world opinion. But it also expresses a racist view that suggests that African writer, or others outside the Euro-American streams, deserve such a price being weird: monkeys to learn to press the typewriter! But we know from Timbuktu (Mali town - vj) that Africans have been writers for a long time and, as I've learned, the Albanian language has produced eminent personalities - for centuries.
Many Nobel prizes have been worthy of criticism, over all data pornografes hyper-modernist Elfriede Jelinej anti-American in 2004 and more worthless as Harold Pinteri 2005. But almost all Nobel winners, have really deserved it, as is the case of my mentor and friend Octavio Paz in 1990, which has a volume of serious offenses.
In contrast to these, mainly scribbling noveleçka Kadare worth reading just for vacation. Equipped with a treasure of the Albanian landscape, culture and history, it is unable to develop characters and build compelling narratives.
He was and is a slaughter of up to a high position by Enver Hoxha. Hoxha acting as saying that "Albania begins with me", and similar Kadare presents himself as that "Albanian literature begins with me". Albania began not with Enver Hoxha and the Albanian literature began not with Kadare. I know equal to Skanderbeg and Peter Bogdani, also know as Hoxha and Kadare.
I learned from John Sinishta disdained to Kadare, not only for the lies he told himself - by portraying himself as a "dissident" under communist rule until he was one of its officials - but also for attacks His numerous and crazy Albanian cultural heritage. He condemned George Fisher Catholic authors, poets Albanian Muslims who reject as "gay" and had incredible arrogance to Faik Konica attacked for his company with Guillaume Apollinairen. Although Apollinaire was one of the greatest poets of the twentieth century, as Kadare light chain dog from pulling Hoxha, labeling Apollinairen as a decadent modernist.
Kadare is a man who is dead and as incapable of bringing more dust will be quickly forgotten and merit. I have recently chosen to treat as if it were dead, and I forget. He has been the person who had once described: a General of the Dead Army, the fans invalid. They are welcome to it.
Kosovo today and dangers of radicalism
Telegraph: You have spent considerable time working in postwar Kosovo and continue to visit Kosovo. What are the changes that you see are made in Kosovo?Schwartz: The Albanians of Kosovo in particular those that are good entrepreneurs, Kosovo has made great strides in the development of small businesses. In addition, there is a wonderful building and intellectual culture in Kosovo. But Kosovo mafia inhibited by international humanitarian imperialist, including the OSCE and EULEX, which treat it as a colony and do little or nothing to alleviate the high rate of unemployment and to improve its schools. However, Kosovo is a quickly developing and interesting - in a beautiful environment.
Telegraph: Are you also director of the Center for Islamic Pluralism. Here you drag the warning against Wahhabism in Albanian lands. Many say that there is no danger and that there is this here Wahhabism. Why your attitude is different?Schwartz: As a Muslim, I agree that there vahabizëm of great importance among the majority of Albanian believers. But it is clear to everyone that supporters of Wahhabism and the Muslim Brotherhood have penetrated the highest strata of Islamic activity in Kosovo. Otherwise, satanic figures as Shefqet Krasniqi and clown as Ramiqi audience would not.
However, the situation in Kosovo is much better than in Macedonia, where radicals have full control of the Islamic Community in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina where they are influential - but fail to establish dominance.
I believe that politicians Slavs in Serbia and Macedonia encourage the entry of radicals among Muslim believers, to divide Muslims, to moderately damaged heritage, traditional, conventional and spiritual Islam in the region, and to project the image of the hated Muslims as extremists. With this method, Serbian and Macedonian politicians hope to mobilize grimcojnë Albanians and Slavs to support policy mafia. This is the classic strategy of provocation and diversion, created by the Russians long ago and that still applied by them in the Caucasus.
The situation in Bosnia-Herzegovina, which is much worse than in Kosovo, is not driven by Slavic goals, but the lure of foreign Islamic money from Wahhabi Saudi Arabia in the case - that is reduced - as well as from Qatar Turkey, which is prevalent ideology of the Muslim Brotherhood.
Telegraph: Since you say that risk, which is it?Schwartz: The main risk to the infiltration of radical Islamists in the Balkans communities, it is spirituality. Approval of radicalism in religion, even as a youthful fad, Kosovo Islam can change from being, as it is today, one of the best examples in the world of Islam, in an imitation of talibanizmit - the worst in the world. The second danger is to overthrow the national movement for self-determination.
Albanian Jews returned to their benefits
Telegraph: There is much discussion about the fact the rescue of Jews by Albanians during World War II. However, there is an impression that Israel does not appreciate this and do not intend to recognize Kosovo as an independent state.Schwartz: It is known that Albanians have saved Jews - during World War II - for a reward. One can also say that Israel does not follow its policies and support recognition based on calculations by day. Unfortunately, Israel remains one of the few countries in the world that still harbors a Serbian lobby, as among the Jews and among the Palestinians, of which the latter considered great friends from Belgrade.
In addition, as Spain, Israel fears precedent for the recognition of new states from their former subjects. In this regard, Kosovo is probably more like Catalonia how Palestine.
But Israel has expressed gratitude for saving Jews, and has developed good relations with Albania. If Kosovo seeks recognition of Israel, it will undoubtedly come. Patience is a virtue Albanian Islamic and Jewish.
Finally, though it must be said that if the Jews had a debt to the Albanians for their salvation during World War II, he was paid off in 1998, when Jewish American politicians, like Tom Lantos - a Holocaust survivor - Benjamin Gilman, Eliot Engel and others (Madeleine Albright, James Rubin, Richard Holbrooke ...) - along with Robert Dolen - were in the front row of those who called for intervention to stop the genocide against Albanians. Religious leaders and leaders of the Israeli-American communities have also advocated for aid for Kosovars. Their voice was heard.
There is no reason to require more than what the Jews gave Albanians, whom they knew very little before. Jewish opinion has recently learned of the events of World War II, and I expect an improvement in relations between Kosovo - with all rational states.
From California to Kosovo
Telegraph: In many cases, you said that you plan to move and live in Kosovo. Why do you want to come to a place from which most people would like to go and live somewhere else?Schwartz: Currently live in California, and everyone wants to live in California. Many people may think I'm crazy to want to leave this place. But, I have exhausted my options here. Kosovo remains new to me, and is a place where I can make a big difference and positive, helping Muslims against radicals, supporting the Albanians against foreign occupants and Serbian intrigue, and helping in the process by which wonderful books from around the world and translated into Albanian read - indeed, a unique experience today, unknown anywhere else.
Both the California and the Kosovo realities have "secret". California is tempting, but "secret" is provincial and without inspiration. I know many people here, but I have very few real friends. People in Kosovo are considered by outsiders as distant, suspicious and treacherous, but my experience with the Albanians is the best and most generous cooperation rather than Californian who are pathologically competitive in personal matters.
In California, pleasant success as an author. Kosovo is far from the capitals of the world, but its people "secretly" are involved in the most important issues - anywhere in the world. How would you like a post-communist society if its people are entrepreneurs and backed by a strong diaspora, and have to fight extremely naughty foreign intervention? In this case Kosovars respond better and more clearly than anyone else in the world.
In addition, California is very expensive, as are other countries where Americans want to live. While the good life is less expensive in Kosovo. Also, I love food and local music. A bowl of fresh tarator and a performance of traditional songs are enough for me to keep me happy, along with Kosovo Albanian friendship that I know of for which I have deep respect. I prefer the company of heroes, who are numerous in Kosovo, not the cowards who rule the world today.
Finally, Kosovo Islam, especially its part Sufi, is the best medicine for my heart disease. Chechens have a saying: "Everything we have is God subhanawata'la and mountains, but it is enough." I feel the same for Kosovo. Everything in Kosovo have been Sufism and Rugova Gorge, but this is enough for me.
Telegraph: How do you see the future of Albanians ... over the next three decades?Schwartz: Given the high sense of national solidarity Albanians, high level of competence and positive role of business in public life diaspora, ardhmëninë optimize the Albanians.
Over the next 30 years predict an enhanced role in the life of Macedonian Albanians. Kosovo state institutions will be strengthened and this will improve the country's investment profile. Albania will become a major center of tourism and business in the region - will be Spain's eastern Adriatic, but always hoping that will not make the mistakes that made Spain. / Telegraph /
___________________
Stephen Schwartz is executive director of the Center for Islamic Pluralism in Washington, author of the famous book published in 2008: "The Other Islam: Sufism and the Road to Global Harmony" (other Islam: Sufism and respect for the story). "
In 2002 he published the bestseller "The Two Faces of Islam: Saudi fundamentalism and Its Role In Terrorism" (The Two Faces of Islam: Saudi Fundamentalism and of its role in terrorism. "He is also author of the book" Sarajevo Rose: A Balkan Jewish Notebook "(pink Sarajevo: Journal of a Jewish Balkans." These works, and others, have been translated into various languages of the world.
Stephen Schwartz was born in 1948 and has a long career of successful literaryjournalism. It was for 10 years a member of the editorial board of The San Francisco Chronicle ditores and newspaper union secretary of northern California. In the years 2004-06 was U.S. historian federal agency known as the National Art assistance.
After the attacks of 11 September 2001, his writings on religion, especially Wahhabism, does qualify as world-renowned expert on Islam, its divisions and relations with other religions.
His research reports have encouraged others to be a guest in one of the debates leading U.S. television.
His articles have been published in major newspapers around the world, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Los Angeles Times, The Toronto Globe and Mail, etc.. It is also a regular contributor to The Weekly Standard and The Huffington Post, as well as reform of Mexico City.
Schwartz began studying Islam in 1990, when I first visited the former Yugoslavia. While researching the history of Jews in the Balkans - on the articles published in the daily newspaper The Jewish Daily Forward and several other magazines - established close relations with the Balkan Muslim intellectuals as well as political and religious leaders in the region.
During the 90s of last century, the continued intensive study of comparative religion in the Balkans, while working for the Albanian Catholic Institute in San Francisco. It was also the various missions in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as a representative of the International Federation of Journalists, then to the Council of Europe, as well as USAID program.
In 1999, during the international intervention in Kosovo, labored Schwartz in The San Francisco Chronicle. Once moved to Sarajevo, continued research of synagogues and Jewish cemeteries in the Balkans, while simultaneously working for various NGOs, including the Soros-in and the German Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Institute.
In 2000 he published a book in Bosnian and English on Muslim identity and media issues in the Balkans, "A Dishonest 20th Century Comedy" (Comedy unfair twentieth century ").
He has published two books in Albanian: "Origin issue of a war" in 2000 which was published in English as "Kosovo: Background to a War", as well as publishing in two languages: "Dreaming in Classifieds / Dreaming in English "(2003).
Interview: Daut DautiThe beginnings of an eternal friendship
Telegraph: Mr. Schwartz, recognized as a friend of the Albanians. How was your relationship with Albanians?Schwartz: First, let me thank you for the great compliment that brought me saying that I am recognized as a friend of the Albanians. This is of great value to me.
My Reports with Albanians began in 1990, when I met John Sinishtën - publisher exiled Albanian Catholic Bulletin - in San Francisco, where we both lived. I had just visited Croatia, a country that had held the first elections in post-communist. John knew from my writings in The San Francisco Chronicle - where I worked as a journalist for the daily news - that was critical of Slobodan Milosevic, so I was a friend and a potential contributor to his work.
I was not Catholic, but a believer in God in an abstract sense. Then I had no formal religion. In 1997 I became a Muslim, that is my religion and my religion first and last Insha'Allah. However, I was and I remain a friend of Catholics, because in many countries they were most active opponents of communism.
John asked me to work with him in his publication, which I have done for six years, until he died in 1995. During the first year has paid off, but after that I said that there is no need anymore, asking him to teach me everything you know about a Catholic priest culture and our history. John was educated to become a priest, but was never confirmed as such, since he left Albania. He became "my second father," helping me in my personal crisis and bringing stability and inspiration in my life for which I am deeply grateful.
Ideological transformation
Telegraph: You - and most of them were leftists during the 60s and 70s of the last century - have passed the scarcity of neocons. What happened with you and others? How and why you doing this "battalion" and converted to Islam?Schwartz: I am separated from the left and I do neoconservative mainly because of what I saw in Nicaragua in 1984. I went deeper into neoconservatism - from Trotskyism - because I hated the situation in which communism had degenerated to which I believe.
In this aspect should be taken into account and export tyranny in Cuba's communist Grenada, Nicaragua and El Salvador, Cuban and Russian imperialism in Africa, the invasion of Afghanistan; cultural powerlessness of socialist countries - but some sparks in Poland, Czechoslovakia and the former Yugoslavia. Like the end of the Soviet regime and was able to make contact with anyone who has this purpose - but fascists.
Asked political alliance with neoconservatives on foreign policy, refuted him in order to support dictators and intelligent intervention, for what the U.S. reaction to Kosovo was an example.
American and British Conservatives have been the first-line advocates for Bosnia and Kosovo, but also in Kuwait, the Chechens and other Muslims oppressed.
Today only neoconservatives support the Chechens, Uighurs attacked by the Chinese and Muslims who are oppressed by Burma Rohingias.
This does not mean that I agree with all those neoconservatives who believe or do. Political alliances, however, has its limits.
Majtizmi radical movement of neoconservatism has been more common in Europe than in the U.S.. Despite not worry Europeans, Americans are primitive in these matters and political changes have doubts.
Known Spanish journalist, Pablo Pardo, commented on this issue as follows: "American writer and journalist Stephen Schwartz ... is a copy of the ideological evolution of the world in recent decades ... Schwartz intellectual program in a particular reproduces the evolution of the West "(Pablo Pardo, El Mundo [Madrid], November 8, 2007).
Since 1984 they have spent 30 years of that time as a journalist I have reported and studied the collapse of the former Yugoslavia. I am a Muslim in Bosnia in 1997, when vrojtova oath of Muslim Bosnians who swear that they will never make them Serbs what they had done them Muslims. Having read the Koran in a manner relevant to the circumstances Islamic, said: "This is my religion."
I'm not "converted" because conversion means a change of religion. I previously did not have religion, unless considered "religion of Satan" - communism.
Nobel impossible
Telegraph: Have proven knowledge and love for literature and culture in general. What prompted you to have respect and be involved in this field?Schwartz: In a way I answered this question by describing my meeting with John Sinishtën. After working with him, I learned about Catholic writers of Shkodra, the history of literacy slip, the role of the great collectors of ballads, for inspiring events of the Renaissance, to attempt the defense of freedom from fascism and communism during World War II World of groups like the National Balli, the role of liberation and Enlightenment Bektashi in Albania, Kosovo to fight against Serbian imperialism ... In short: everything important to Albanians.
As I have often said, I know that Albanians are grateful to the Americans for their support against foreign occupants, especially for Woodrow Wilson to stop sharing is today Albania from Greece, Serbia and Italy, to Bill Clinton that defended Kosovo and George W. Bush to recognize its independence. While I am grateful Albanians who saved from boredom, the cynicism, and the invalidity of life as a news reporter.
If it were not Albanians, will spend life as a journalist trivial news that people will read them and forget them. I could die as a loser. But, yet not represent failure.
Never in my entire life did I think that I'll have the chance to work for tolerance, for justice, for human understanding. Albanians gave me something to think, to feel and to write to the excess of existential nothingness of everyday life.
Telegraph: Are you known as a fierce critic against Ismail Kadare and as someone who writes articles unfavorable global media whenever Kadare nominated for the Nobel Prize for Literature. Where do you base this refusal and why keep this attitude?Schwartz: First, it is inaccurate claim that I write articles about Kadare unfavorable global media whenever he nominated for the Nobel Prize. He was nominated for the Nobel Prize every year, unfortunately by his fans and other ignorant people who do not understand that lobbying for the Nobel Prize is a futile effort and that there was never Nobel prizes are given to potential recipients from "multiple betting lists". They are always surprises. And, if there is anything in the world of literature that is not novel or surprising, it is attempted Ismail Kadare and his gang to receive the Nobel Prize.
I have written to for several years, because I understand that he will never get the Nobel Prize. His work is very poor. However, I understand that many Albanians consider it as their single figure important on the world stage, and they are humiliated by my criticism against him. This is one of the reasons why I ceased to write.
As Enver Hoxha, as Ismail Kadare
However, I consider it as a form of aggression, the Albanians believe that the Nobel Prize bestowed as a colonial medal for unknown writers from poor countries, and that Kadare will get it because inevitably Albanian language and literature are unknown and that Albanians are poor! Theory of Literature Nobel Prizes were awarded to the authors that "many people have not heard", reflects the general illiteracy of world opinion. But it also expresses a racist view that suggests that African writer, or others outside the Euro-American streams, deserve such a price being weird: monkeys to learn to press the typewriter! But we know from Timbuktu (Mali town - vj) that Africans have been writers for a long time and, as I've learned, the Albanian language has produced eminent personalities - for centuries.
Many Nobel prizes have been worthy of criticism, over all data pornografes hyper-modernist Elfriede Jelinej anti-American in 2004 and more worthless as Harold Pinteri 2005. But almost all Nobel winners, have really deserved it, as is the case of my mentor and friend Octavio Paz in 1990, which has a volume of serious offenses.
In contrast to these, mainly scribbling noveleçka Kadare worth reading just for vacation. Equipped with a treasure of the Albanian landscape, culture and history, it is unable to develop characters and build compelling narratives.
He was and is a slaughter of up to a high position by Enver Hoxha. Hoxha acting as saying that "Albania begins with me", and similar Kadare presents himself as that "Albanian literature begins with me". Albania began not with Enver Hoxha and the Albanian literature began not with Kadare. I know equal to Skanderbeg and Peter Bogdani, also know as Hoxha and Kadare.
I learned from John Sinishta disdained to Kadare, not only for the lies he told himself - by portraying himself as a "dissident" under communist rule until he was one of its officials - but also for attacks His numerous and crazy Albanian cultural heritage. He condemned George Fisher Catholic authors, poets Albanian Muslims who reject as "gay" and had incredible arrogance to Faik Konica attacked for his company with Guillaume Apollinairen. Although Apollinaire was one of the greatest poets of the twentieth century, as Kadare light chain dog from pulling Hoxha, labeling Apollinairen as a decadent modernist.
Kadare is a man who is dead and as incapable of bringing more dust will be quickly forgotten and merit. I have recently chosen to treat as if it were dead, and I forget. He has been the person who had once described: a General of the Dead Army, the fans invalid. They are welcome to it.
Kosovo today and dangers of radicalism
Telegraph: You have spent considerable time working in postwar Kosovo and continue to visit Kosovo. What are the changes that you see are made in Kosovo?Schwartz: The Albanians of Kosovo in particular those that are good entrepreneurs, Kosovo has made great strides in the development of small businesses. In addition, there is a wonderful building and intellectual culture in Kosovo. But Kosovo mafia inhibited by international humanitarian imperialist, including the OSCE and EULEX, which treat it as a colony and do little or nothing to alleviate the high rate of unemployment and to improve its schools. However, Kosovo is a quickly developing and interesting - in a beautiful environment.
Telegraph: Are you also director of the Center for Islamic Pluralism. Here you drag the warning against Wahhabism in Albanian lands. Many say that there is no danger and that there is this here Wahhabism. Why your attitude is different?Schwartz: As a Muslim, I agree that there vahabizëm of great importance among the majority of Albanian believers. But it is clear to everyone that supporters of Wahhabism and the Muslim Brotherhood have penetrated the highest strata of Islamic activity in Kosovo. Otherwise, satanic figures as Shefqet Krasniqi and clown as Ramiqi audience would not.
However, the situation in Kosovo is much better than in Macedonia, where radicals have full control of the Islamic Community in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina where they are influential - but fail to establish dominance.
I believe that politicians Slavs in Serbia and Macedonia encourage the entry of radicals among Muslim believers, to divide Muslims, to moderately damaged heritage, traditional, conventional and spiritual Islam in the region, and to project the image of the hated Muslims as extremists. With this method, Serbian and Macedonian politicians hope to mobilize grimcojnë Albanians and Slavs to support policy mafia. This is the classic strategy of provocation and diversion, created by the Russians long ago and that still applied by them in the Caucasus.
The situation in Bosnia-Herzegovina, which is much worse than in Kosovo, is not driven by Slavic goals, but the lure of foreign Islamic money from Wahhabi Saudi Arabia in the case - that is reduced - as well as from Qatar Turkey, which is prevalent ideology of the Muslim Brotherhood.
Telegraph: Since you say that risk, which is it?Schwartz: The main risk to the infiltration of radical Islamists in the Balkans communities, it is spirituality. Approval of radicalism in religion, even as a youthful fad, Kosovo Islam can change from being, as it is today, one of the best examples in the world of Islam, in an imitation of talibanizmit - the worst in the world. The second danger is to overthrow the national movement for self-determination.
Albanian Jews returned to their benefits
Telegraph: There is much discussion about the fact the rescue of Jews by Albanians during World War II. However, there is an impression that Israel does not appreciate this and do not intend to recognize Kosovo as an independent state.Schwartz: It is known that Albanians have saved Jews - during World War II - for a reward. One can also say that Israel does not follow its policies and support recognition based on calculations by day. Unfortunately, Israel remains one of the few countries in the world that still harbors a Serbian lobby, as among the Jews and among the Palestinians, of which the latter considered great friends from Belgrade.
In addition, as Spain, Israel fears precedent for the recognition of new states from their former subjects. In this regard, Kosovo is probably more like Catalonia how Palestine.
But Israel has expressed gratitude for saving Jews, and has developed good relations with Albania. If Kosovo seeks recognition of Israel, it will undoubtedly come. Patience is a virtue Albanian Islamic and Jewish.
Finally, though it must be said that if the Jews had a debt to the Albanians for their salvation during World War II, he was paid off in 1998, when Jewish American politicians, like Tom Lantos - a Holocaust survivor - Benjamin Gilman, Eliot Engel and others (Madeleine Albright, James Rubin, Richard Holbrooke ...) - along with Robert Dolen - were in the front row of those who called for intervention to stop the genocide against Albanians. Religious leaders and leaders of the Israeli-American communities have also advocated for aid for Kosovars. Their voice was heard.
There is no reason to require more than what the Jews gave Albanians, whom they knew very little before. Jewish opinion has recently learned of the events of World War II, and I expect an improvement in relations between Kosovo - with all rational states.
From California to Kosovo
Telegraph: In many cases, you said that you plan to move and live in Kosovo. Why do you want to come to a place from which most people would like to go and live somewhere else?Schwartz: Currently live in California, and everyone wants to live in California. Many people may think I'm crazy to want to leave this place. But, I have exhausted my options here. Kosovo remains new to me, and is a place where I can make a big difference and positive, helping Muslims against radicals, supporting the Albanians against foreign occupants and Serbian intrigue, and helping in the process by which wonderful books from around the world and translated into Albanian read - indeed, a unique experience today, unknown anywhere else.
Both the California and the Kosovo realities have "secret". California is tempting, but "secret" is provincial and without inspiration. I know many people here, but I have very few real friends. People in Kosovo are considered by outsiders as distant, suspicious and treacherous, but my experience with the Albanians is the best and most generous cooperation rather than Californian who are pathologically competitive in personal matters.
In California, pleasant success as an author. Kosovo is far from the capitals of the world, but its people "secretly" are involved in the most important issues - anywhere in the world. How would you like a post-communist society if its people are entrepreneurs and backed by a strong diaspora, and have to fight extremely naughty foreign intervention? In this case Kosovars respond better and more clearly than anyone else in the world.
In addition, California is very expensive, as are other countries where Americans want to live. While the good life is less expensive in Kosovo. Also, I love food and local music. A bowl of fresh tarator and a performance of traditional songs are enough for me to keep me happy, along with Kosovo Albanian friendship that I know of for which I have deep respect. I prefer the company of heroes, who are numerous in Kosovo, not the cowards who rule the world today.
Finally, Kosovo Islam, especially its part Sufi, is the best medicine for my heart disease. Chechens have a saying: "Everything we have is God subhanawata'la and mountains, but it is enough." I feel the same for Kosovo. Everything in Kosovo have been Sufism and Rugova Gorge, but this is enough for me.
Telegraph: How do you see the future of Albanians ... over the next three decades?Schwartz: Given the high sense of national solidarity Albanians, high level of competence and positive role of business in public life diaspora, ardhmëninë optimize the Albanians.
Over the next 30 years predict an enhanced role in the life of Macedonian Albanians. Kosovo state institutions will be strengthened and this will improve the country's investment profile. Albania will become a major center of tourism and business in the region - will be Spain's eastern Adriatic, but always hoping that will not make the mistakes that made Spain. / Telegraph /
___________________
Stephen Schwartz is executive director of the Center for Islamic Pluralism in Washington, author of the famous book published in 2008: "The Other Islam: Sufism and the Road to Global Harmony" (other Islam: Sufism and respect for the story). "
In 2002 he published the bestseller "The Two Faces of Islam: Saudi fundamentalism and Its Role In Terrorism" (The Two Faces of Islam: Saudi Fundamentalism and of its role in terrorism. "He is also author of the book" Sarajevo Rose: A Balkan Jewish Notebook "(pink Sarajevo: Journal of a Jewish Balkans." These works, and others, have been translated into various languages of the world.
Stephen Schwartz was born in 1948 and has a long career of successful literaryjournalism. It was for 10 years a member of the editorial board of The San Francisco Chronicle ditores and newspaper union secretary of northern California. In the years 2004-06 was U.S. historian federal agency known as the National Art assistance.
After the attacks of 11 September 2001, his writings on religion, especially Wahhabism, does qualify as world-renowned expert on Islam, its divisions and relations with other religions.
His research reports have encouraged others to be a guest in one of the debates leading U.S. television.
His articles have been published in major newspapers around the world, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Los Angeles Times, The Toronto Globe and Mail, etc.. It is also a regular contributor to The Weekly Standard and The Huffington Post, as well as reform of Mexico City.
Schwartz began studying Islam in 1990, when I first visited the former Yugoslavia. While researching the history of Jews in the Balkans - on the articles published in the daily newspaper The Jewish Daily Forward and several other magazines - established close relations with the Balkan Muslim intellectuals as well as political and religious leaders in the region.
During the 90s of last century, the continued intensive study of comparative religion in the Balkans, while working for the Albanian Catholic Institute in San Francisco. It was also the various missions in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as a representative of the International Federation of Journalists, then to the Council of Europe, as well as USAID program.
In 1999, during the international intervention in Kosovo, labored Schwartz in The San Francisco Chronicle. Once moved to Sarajevo, continued research of synagogues and Jewish cemeteries in the Balkans, while simultaneously working for various NGOs, including the Soros-in and the German Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Institute.
In 2000 he published a book in Bosnian and English on Muslim identity and media issues in the Balkans, "A Dishonest 20th Century Comedy" (Comedy unfair twentieth century ").
He has published two books in Albanian: "Origin issue of a war" in 2000 which was published in English as "Kosovo: Background to a War", as well as publishing in two languages: "Dreaming in Classifieds / Dreaming in English "(2003).
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