UMD Voice

www.umdiaspora.org

Holiday Fund Drive Somerset Hills

Interview with
For Macedonian YMCA Reaches
Thomas Bitove
Children Across the Globe

United Macedonian Diaspora Publication, Volume II, Summer Edition - 2008

UMD Voice
Advertising Rates

Back Cover (full) - $500

Inside cover (full) - $450
Any inside full page - $350
Half page (vert/horiz) - $200
Quarter page (vert/horiz) - $130

For more details, please contact us:

United Macedonian Diaspora

1101 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, 6th Floor
Washington, D.C. 20004

(202) 756-2244 umdvoice@umdisapora.org

All advertising is subject to approval by UMD Voice’s editorial staff,

which reserves the right to refuse or cancel any advertisement at any time.
 InUMD
UMD Voice

this issue...
Voice
5 Australian Macedonians Say It Loud
Macedonians display unity in Melbourne.

6 Holiday Fund Drive For Macedonia

UMD’s fund drive was in high gear during the
Holidays!
UMD Voice
7 Florida’s Lou Vlasho 1101 Pennsylvania Avenue,
5 Lou becomes Honorary Consul of Florida. NW, 6th Floor
Washington, D.C. 20004
8 War-time Lessons Phone: (202) 756-2244
Toni is not your average civics teacher... Fax: (202) 756-7323
info@umdiaspora.org
9 Interview with Dr. Srgjan Kerim umdvoice@umdiaspora.org
The UN’s 62nd General Assembly President http://www.umdiaspora.org
gives us some insight into his role.
Editor
13 New Jersey’s Slavko Madzarov Alexander Krstevski
This local businessman is on top of the world! editor@umdiaspora.org
6 14 AMSUT Pursues Big Objectives Assistant Editor
Club reaches for the stars in 2008. Mark Branov

14 Community Visits Contributors

A working visit to the Macedonian Damjan Arsovski
communities in Detroit and Windsor. Dijana Despodova-Pajkovski
Emil Ivanovski
15 The Lost Generation of Child Refugees Anthony Laskovski
Marking the 60th anniversary. Stojan Nikolov
Gorgi Popstefanov
9 16

Interview with Thomas Bitove
On charity, and being Macedonian.
Ljupco Stankovski
Jeffrey Stavroff

17 Macedonian-American Charity Layout and Design

How Macedonians in Illinois are giving back. Nick Saveski/Delo Logic Arts

18 Somerset Hills YMCA...

Working together for youth. A ny o p i n i o n s o r v i e w s
expressed in ar ticles or
19 Macedonian in New York Honored... other pieces appearing in
About George Tomov ‘s biography UMD Voice are those of the
author alone and are not
17 20

UMD Holds Grassroots Event
Thought-provoking discussion of issues.
necessarily those of UMD;
the appearance of any such
opinions or views in UMD
21 Gorsevski to Bring Geological Expertise Voice is not and should
A Fulbright Scholar comes home... not be considered to be an
endorsement by or approval
22 33rd Annual Convention of the same by UMD.
A new direction for the future!

21
Summer 2008 
 UMD
UMD Voice

Letter from Voice

the President
Welcome to our new magazine UMD Voice!

Dear Reader,

The first issue of UMD Quarterly was downloaded from

our website over 16,000 times since its release! We are
Founded in 2004, United thrilled by the positive response from our members and
Macedonian Diaspora (UMD) readers. On behalf of the Board of Directors, allow me to
is an international non - introduce UMD Voice. This is one of our organization’s most
governmental organization significant tools and we are confident that it is destined to
addressing the interests and become the premier publication in the global Macedonian Diaspora.
needs of Macedonians and
Macedonian communities In this issue, you can read about UMD’s important and necessary work in Washington,
throughout the world. D.C., and throughout the world. During the past few months, UMD representatives
visited major Diaspora communities in the United States, Australia, and Canada,
With headquarters in learning about the needs of Macedonians throughout the world. The issues facing
Washington, D.C., UMD has our people are wide-ranging, from education to immigration, from the “name issue”
represent atives ser v ing to civil rights, and from territorial and regional security to NATO and EU membership.
Macedonian communities No matter the challenge, UMD is at the forefront of it all – thanks to you.
around the world, including
Berlin, Brussels, Canberra, The recent Greek veto of Macedonia’s Euro-Atlantic integration was a disgrace to
London, Los Angeles, the ideals that the Euro-Atlantic community was built on. However, this has not
Melbourne, New York, Paris, discouraged us. In fact, it has united Macedonians throughout the world against
Stuttgart, Sydney, Toronto, the actions of the Greek regime. The Macedonian attitude is one of calm resistance
and Vienna. to Greek oppression, and despite all of the adversity it has faced, the Republic of
Macedonia is a beacon of light in the Balkans -- a role model for Southeastern
UMD is a 501 (c) (3) charitable Europe.
organization.
UMD is raising funds to establish a more solid base in Washington, D.C. and to hire
Board a full-time staff. The support we received during our fall fundraising drive was
fantastic, and we opened a small office last month in downtown Washington, D.C.
Metodija A. Koloski Our Board has outlined a $200,000 target goal for this year, and we are planning UMD
President events and activities in the United States, Australia, Canada, and Europe; we invite you
to get involved and participate in a UMD event and activity near you.
Aleksandar Mitreski
Vice President Our friendships and working relationships are growing throughout the global
policymaking community. UMD represents the future of the global Macedonian
Michael A. Sarafin Diaspora – progressive, moderate, hard working, professional, and dedicated.
Secretary
Help us move the Macedonian cause forward by supporting UMD, and please enjoy
Denis Manevski this issue of UMD Voice.
Treasurer
Sincerely,
Ordan Andreevski
Director of Australian Operations

Chris M. Purdef
Igor Zvezdakoski
Marina Veljanovska
Director
Metodija “Meto” A. Koloski
Gorgi Popstefanov President
International Policy & Diplomacy Fellow

 Summer 2008
Photos courtesy of: MacedonianCommunity.com; Australian Macedonian Weekly
UMD Voice

Australian Macedonians Say It Loud:

“Macedonia, Macedonians, Forever”
By Ordan Andreevski, Ljupco Stankovski, and Igor Zvezdakoski
Macedonia, now recognized team of volunteers. In less than a
under its constitutional name month, very diverse groups were
by 124 countries, including organized using the latest techniques
the U.S., China, Russia, the of project management, with special
UK, and Canada. working groups focused on Media
Relations, Government Relations,
Titled “Macedonia, Community Relations, Internet and
M ac e d o n i a n s , Fo r e ve r,” Direct Communication, Fundraising,
t he event i n downtown and Merchandizing.
Melbourne gave loud and
clear support for the right UMD assisted in planning, operations,
of the Macedonians to their pr inting and distr ibution of
biblical and constitutional promotional flyers, program design,
name, their unique culture, web communications, speech writing
language and identity. and media relations. UMD also created
a Media Alert, a Media Briefing Kit
Organizers also called and a Media Release, which were sent
on the U N, the EU and to all major press and broadcast media
nations such as Australia outlets across Australia, as well as to
to protect the rights of all Federal Members of Parliament and
Macedonians, including the EU diplomatic missions in Canberra.
ethnic Macedonian minority
in Greece, which has been The event successfully drew media
oppressed since the Treaty of attention in Australia, Macedonia,
Bucharest of 1913. Canada and the U.S., and demonstrated
the peaceful Macedonian spirit, and
The passion for this protest how it can be harnessed for positive
came at a critical time, just change and social justice.
as Greece and
i t s d e c r e a s i ng
number of
supporters
managed to
i l legal ly veto
UMD plays key role in Macedonia’s entr y into
NATO. Talks on European
peaceful Melbourne rally integration are also stalled;
both types of interference
More than 20,000-strong Australian having been expressly
Macedonians gathered in a massive forbidden by international
show of unity on the steps of Victoria’s treaties that Greece
parliament in Melbourne to show their signed, and taking Athens’
support for Macedonia. international diplomatic
reputation to an all-new
Protesters loudly appealed to the low.
Rudd Government to discontinue
Australia’s official use of the term Local police praised the
“former Yugoslav” and stand up for organizers for a peaceful
Macedonian human rights and self- rally without incident,
determination. Australia remains one thanks in par t to the
of the few notable exceptions to a foresight of the Organizing
global wave of diplomatic support for Committee and a large

Summer 2008 
UMD Voice

Photos: UMD Staff

Holiday Fund Drive Benefits Children,
Homeless, and Elderly in Macedonia
By Marina Veljanovska
Through a heartwarming display of long-term care for orphans and children
holiday giving, UMD’s drive to support who can no longer grow up with their
Macedonia’s less fortunate exceeded biological families.
fundraising expectations, providing
them with a much needed gift from the A ten-day supply of fresh milk was
Diaspora. The outpouring of generosity donated to the Home for Babies and
benefited more people than initially Toddlers in Bitola for the orphaned
expected, and donations were made to children in their care, and food was
benefit less fortunate children, homeless, donated to the public kitchen at St.
hungry, and elderly. Volunteers used the Petka’s church, which provides daily
funds to purchase in-kind donations of meals to many of Skopje’s hungry and
food and other supplies in Macedonia. unemployed. Food was also purchased
and donated to laid-off factory workers
All 108 children living in the SOS who lost their savings and pensions
Children’s Village - Macedonia (Detsko during Macedonia’s transition to a
Selo) for orphans and neglected children market economy.
received a package containing a pair of
gloves, a scarf, a hat, toys, and candy. For more information about UMD’s
SOS Children’s Villages is an international charitable projects during 2008, please
nonprofit organization active in 132 contact Aleksandra Trpkovska (586)
countries and territories worldwide. SOS 383-1721.
Children’s Villages provide family-based,

 Summer 2008
Photos courtesy of: Lou Vlasho
UMD Voice

Florida’s Lou Vlasho Named Macedonian Honorary Consul

By Aleksandar Mitreski

A formal luncheon on February 8, 2008 February 8th as Macedonia Day in

marked the opening of the second Naples, and representatives from the
Honorary Consulate of the Republic of offices of Senators Mel Martinez and
Macedonia in the U.S., with the naming Bill Nelson, Congressman Connie Mack,
of Lou Vlasho as the Honorary Consul in and City Councilman Rob Popoff of
Florida. Several Macedonian dignitaries Marco Island, FL, who is of Macedonian
were among the 200 guests that filled descent. In their congratulatory letters,
the Vergina Restaurant in Naples, Florida the American legislators praised Vlasho
for the occasion, including Dr. Srgjan for his work with them in the past, and
Kerim, President of the 62nd General for his efforts as a Macedonian-American
Assembly of the United Nations, Antonio by remarking to Vlasho that his “efforts
Milososki, Minister of Foreign Affairs of will help forge a deeper understanding
the Republic of Macedonia, and Zoran and appreciation for the Macedonian
Jolevski, Ambassador of the Republic of heritage in the United States,” and that
Macedonia to the United States. his “intelligence and diplomatic skills
have earned the respect of those that
Vlasho received a standing ovation have come to know” him.
when he took the podium and reflected
modestly on his achievements. “It Vlasho has been involved in numerous
is humbling to have been elected humanitarian activities to benefit
Honorary Consul by the Government of Macedonia and Macedonians – on one
Macedonia. I have always tried to the occasion he personally reached out
best of my ability to help Macedonia to healthcare supply giant Johnson
and the Macedonians in need” said & Johnson and urged them to send
Vlasho. Macedonians in attendance felt medical equipment tp help a deathly ill
that the event was not only a celebration child in Macedonia. When Macedonia
of Lou’s work, but of the Macedonian gained its independence, Lou seized
Diaspora’s involvement with Macedonia the opportunity to share his vast
as a whole. Addressing the audience, knowledge of business and finance with
Dr. Kerim stated “It’s good that people Macedonian entrepreneurs, preparing
know that the U.S. has with Macedonia them for the rigors of a market-
a small, but reliable ally. I want during based economy. In the United States,
my tenure [as U.N. General Assembly Vlasho helped establish a scholarship
President] to reach out to Americans.” program for Macedonian undergraduate
Ambassador Jolevski praised Vlasho for students at Ohio University, his alma
“actively and profoundly” promoting mater, together with Macedonia-based
Macedonia and Macedonian culture in businessman Risto Gusterov.
the U.S.
Vlasho is a successful entrepreneur and
In addition, at tending the event is currently the Vice President of the
were Naples Mayor Bill Barnett, who Rimaco Corporation, which operates
presented the Macedonian delegation the prestigious Vergina Restaurant in
with the Key to the City and proclaimed downtown Naples.

Lou Vlasho with Ambassador Jolevski

Summer 2008 
UMD Voice

Photos courtesy of: South Lyon Herald

War-time Lessons
Tr a n s l a t e i n t o
Statewide Award
By Jessie Ellis
Published in the January 10, 2008
edition of the South Lyon Herald
(Reprinted with permission)
Bosnia and Albania.
On his classroom wall he hangs
photographs of his time as an interpreter.

“The kids love these stories,” he said.

“’Wow! This guy knows top secret stuff.’”
Along with the pictures he has a plaque
recognizing him as runner-up for Oakland
County Teacher of the Year, and thank
you letters from congressmen and women
who have come to speak to his classes
over the years.

Simovski’s unique perspective to history

informs his teaching philosophy, he said.
Teaching government is about a lot more
than just how it works. It is also about
Every day, Toni Simovski reminds his a fun and exciting way.” how government often doesn’t work and
students about how the world affects why. It is about learning to think about
their lives. The South Lyon High School Simovski had no idea he had won until it the consequences of bad governance.
government teacher plays video clips was announced last month at a luncheon His often trying times as a translator has
of news events and audio recordings of attended by 200 teachers, administrators helped Simovski appreciate his new life as
Supreme Court decisions. His students and others involved with civic education. a teacher. At the University of Michigan-
attend school board and city council Dearborn, his professor, Leslie Thornton,
meeting - sometimes asking pointed “It was a total surprise,” Simovski said. encouraged him to become a teacher.
questions of the board members. “They said, ‘This recipient often brings
in guest speakers and has been teaching “My professor talked me into it,” Simovski
Because of all of these activities, Simovski [Advanced Placement] government for said. “He said I had a knack for it, that I’m
was named the Civic Education Teacher of nine years.’ I thought, ‘Well, that could be a natural born teacher.”
the Year by the Michigan Center for Civic me.’ Then they said, ‘He was a translator
Education. in Macedonia.’ That kind of sealed it for That knack has translated into lessons
me.” that are more informed by YouTube than
“I just want to make kids active textbooks. Simovski recognizes that his
participants,” Simovski said. “I have a fear Simovski speaks five languages including students learn by doing.
of us becoming too passive.” Macedonian, Serbian, Bosnian and
Albanian, and in 1998-1999 he was in “They’re very positive, even for being in
Simovski was nominated by fellow the thick of the break up of Yugoslavia. a required class,” Simovski said of his
government teacher Ray Divitto, his mentor Simovski was a contractor with the American Government students. “They
and college professor Leslie Thornton, and Department of Defense and was assigned say, ‘At least he’s making it interesting.’”
his wife, Natalie, a graphic designer who to work as a translator for the United
put together an impressive nomination States Army in the former Yugoslavian Of course the recognition is nice, but
package that included an audio recording. Republic of Macedonia. He translated for for Simovski, it’s all about educating his
U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, students. “I just want to make them aware
“I thought he does a very good job at the Vice President Al Gore and Secretary of what’s going on,” he said.
school and is a very dedicated teacher,” of Defense William Cohen, as well as
Divitto said of Simovski. “He does a very soldiers in the field. His work also took Contact Jessie Ellis at (248) 437-2011 or
fine job of reaching out to the students in him throughout the region including to jjellis@gannett.com

 Summer 2008
Photos courtesy of: UMD Staff; Dr. Srgjan Kerim
UMD Voice

Left to right: Meto Koloski, Dr. Kerim, and Aleksandar Mitreski

Interview with UN’s 62nd General Assembly President Dr. Srgjan Kerim
by Alexander Krstevski
Dr. Srg jan Kerim is a seasoned Nations General Assembly is chosen in order to move them forward to
Macedonian diplomat with a career for one year. T he post rotates reach concrete progress on the various
spanning over three decades. In among the 192 member states of the common issues countries agreed to
previous capacities, Dr. Kerim has organization based on the principle deal with through the United Nations
served as Macedonian Ambassador to of equitable geographic distribution such as climate change, protecting
Germany, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, which in practice means that each human rights, pursuing sustainable
and to the United Nations, and later as year a country from a different development or combating terrorism.
Macedonian Foreign Minister. He has regional grouping nominates the Therefore, most of the daily work of
lectured widely on Balkan issues, is President. Macedonia is part of the the president revolves around engaging
the author of nine books dealing with so-called East European group which the representatives of Member States
international politics, economics and last nominated a candidate in 2002. in various forms: meeting with them
youth, and has written more than 100 Following presidencies from the Latin individually, bringing them together
scholarly papers, many of which have American, the African, the Western into various formal meetings, presiding
been published in countries across European and the Asian groups, it was over those meetings and making
Europe. our regional group’s turn again and official visits to countries.
the regional group put forward my
candidacy which was then supported UMD: What are some of the challenges
UMD: How did it happen that you and accepted by the full membership that you have come across since you
were nominated for the presidency of of the United Nations. started this post?
the UN General Assembly? (What was
the process like both in Macedonia UMD: Can you describe what is Kerim: I am experiencing what
and within the UN itself that lead to involved in a day’s work as president I think all my predecessors must
the selection of a candidate and the of the GA? have experienced: the challenge of
campaign leading up to the vote in harmonizing the various views and
the UN?) Kerim: The president’s work is to interests of the 192 Member States of
facilitate and guide the political this Organization. Bringing everyone
Kerim: The President of the United negotiation work of the member states to the negotiating table and keeping

Summer 2008 
UMD Voice
them there is quite a task. Generating Regarding the name negotiations, the For me, one of the key tasks is to
the necessar y political will for Secretary-General has an envoy, Mr. maintain the commitment of member
common action and then maintaining Matthew Nimetz of the United States, states to their agreed goals, work with
this political will to actually achieve who is in charge of this issue and the them on finding the ways and means to
the commonly agreed goals is the governments of Macedonia and Greece this as well as engage the countries that
real challenge. It is not enough to are negotiating on this issue with the are not party to the Kyoto Protocol and
simply have countries agree on certain facilitation of this envoy. This is a also reach out to the non-governmental
common approaches, whether on process that should be left to them. sphere, especially civil society and the
climate change business sector.
or how to fight At the same
against terrorism time it is equally
or what goals to impor tant to
set as targets realize and
to have for acknowledge
sustainable that climate
d e ve l o p m e n t , change is
it is equally not a si mple
challenging if environmental
not more so, to issue. It needs
keep countries to be addressed
willingness from a broader
to commit and cross cutting
resources and perspective that
political attention also looks at its
focused on those full implications
com m it ment s. o n s e c u r i t y,
A n additional energy, health,
and newly e c o n o m i c
evolving aspect d e ve l o p m e n t ,
that adds to this hu m a n r ig ht s
challenge is the and global
fact that it is governance.
more and more With these
obvious that implications and
there is a need Dr. Kerim with President Bush di mensions it
to reach beyond is a true global
governments and make the United UMD: In your acceptance speech, you issue that touches every country in
Nations capable of effectively engaging mentioned that you will focus your the world and an issue for the United
non-governmental actors including energy on topics like global warming, Nations as it cuts to the heart of the
civil society, academia and the private immigration, and globalization. What Organization’s key activities. This is
sector because they all have a role has been done so far on these issues, why I have pushed this issue to be
in tackling some of the major global and what do you hope to accomplish? a key issue on the United Nations’
challenges such as fighting HIV/AIDS agenda for the 62nd session. My goal
or dealing with climate change. Kerim: Let me pick up on the global is to build on the existing framework
warming topic you mentioned. In some and commitment of member states and
UMD: Will you be able to help for form or other this has been on the work towards a stronger and broader
further affirmation of Macedonia, United Nations agenda for decades. The response to the climate change
and possibly influence the name United Nations Framework Convention challenge and chart a roadmap that
negotiations? on Climate Change entered into force can take us to 2012 and beyond.
in 1994 but member states decided to
Kerim: By electing a candidate from work on new legal instruments with UMD: In that same speech, you
Macedonia, Member States have already stronger commitments. This eventually mentioned that accomplishing
given a very positive recognition led to the Kyoto Protocol which was tasks outlined in the Millennium
of our country. As President, if I am adopted in Japan in 1997. This Protocol Development Goals is very important,
able to do my job effectively and win calls for cutbacks in emissions of particularly in Africa. What can the
the cooperation and support of the carbon dioxide and other greenhouse UN do to avoid and mitigate conflicts
countries then through this I hope gases by at least 5 per cent below the and the subsequent loss of life in
I can further enhance this positive 1990 levels by 2012. So this is where situations that may resemble those in
international recognition for Macedonia. we are now. Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and Darfur?

10 Summer 2008
 UMD Voice
Kerim: One of the key tasks for us protect effectively into practice. commitments with resources and
is of course to prevent conf licts political will. At the same time it is
from breaking out in the first place. UMD: Do you think that there should equally necessary to have the United
This means addressing the root be reforms in the way that the Security Nations as an organization capable
causes of conflicts and dealing with Council operates? Do you think that of achieving the tasks Member States
the conditions that may create the the body should be enlarged, and assign to it by becoming more efficient,
potential for, or further aggravate an which countries (if any) should be transparent and accountable. That is
existing crises situation in various introduced? what reform must be about.
regions and countries. The key issues
on the agenda of the United Nations, Kerim: I share the view of the majority UMD: How long is the term of the
such as development, human rights, of countries that reform of the Security president of the general assembly, and
governance, rule of law are crucial in Council is essential for making its what do you plan to do afterwards?
this regard. It is also in this context decisions more compatible with
that the Millennium Development contemporary realities. But there is no Kerim: The term of a General
Goals are important. consensus on the various formulas that Assembly President is one year – it is
Apart from continuing our efforts have been put forward as to how to for one session of the Assembly. In
in conflict prevention, we must also change the present composition. My my case it’s the 62nd session which
further enhance the United Nations predecessors have been dealing with began on 18 September 2007 and
work in peacekeeping and longer term this issue for over a decade since the ends in September 2008. The former
peace building. The United Nations has establishment of a working group on Presidents of the General Assembly
a good track record in this regard. It has Security Council reform within the maintain an informal grouping and
become a trusted and globally-sought General Assembly. I will build on their gather from time to time to exchange
peacekeeper. This is underscored by efforts and work and try to take the views and also propose ideas for
the fact that demand for this activity issue further. improving the work of the United
has grown exponentially. Close to Nations, so I expect that I will maintain
100,000 field personnel are currently UMD: What other reforms do you some close affiliation with the work of
deployed in UN operations. The think are necessary for the UN to run the Organization through that channel.
combined costs of these missions have as effectively as possible? At the same time I have enjoyed my
grown close to 20 fold in the past two work as the head of the southeastern
decades to reach a combined budget of Kerim: Reforming the United Nations European pillar of the WAZ media
roughly 5.5 billion dollars. At the same is almost as old as the Organization group before becoming the General
time the tasks of personnel on the itself. In fact the United Nations has Assembly president so I expect that I
ground has shifted considerably from been in constant reform. The United would rejoin the company after this
simply monitoring a cease-fire line to Nations is a unique tool in the hands of one year with the United Nations.
a wide array of military, police, social, its members, the countries represented
economic and human rights functions. by their governments. It is ultimately UMD: What advice would you give
This growth in demand means that up to them whether they want to use to young Macedonians around the
we must continuously strengthen this tool and how to work with it and world?
the capacity of the United Nations to how best to use this unique forum to
mount and sustain peacekeeping and respond to common challenges. So Kerim: Globalization is bringing
peace building operations. simply put, reform is about constantly changes in the world creating great
There must also be willingness on the adapting this unique tool to make it opportunities especially for young
part of the international community better equipped to deal with global people, opening up the whole world
to get involved and act in conflict problems. However, since global for them to experience. I would
situations. I do see some very positive challenges have a changing nature encourage them to take advantage of
developments with Member States and Member States also have shifting this opportunity and be open to the
in 2005 agreeing to the principle of priorities this creates a constant world, to its different cultures and
responsibility to protect – meaning a reform challenge for the Organization. people. Gaining wide knowledge and
responsibility to protect populations Therefore, reform should not be seen having the ability to transform that
from genocide, war crimes, ethnic as an event but as on ongoing process. knowledge, in whatever field it may
cleansing and crimes against humanity. What is necessary is for Member be, to be able to use it with ease in
World leaders agreed for the first time States to have a clear vision and a multicultural environment is very
that states have a primary responsibility understanding as to what they want important. Also, the more languages
to protect their own populations and to achieve together on the various one knows the easier one may adapt
that the international community has common issues they are discussing, and transfer that knowledge and know
a responsibility to act when these whether climate change or terrorism how in what ever environment one is
governments fail to protect the most or sustainable development or conflict to work in. This is especially true for
vulnerable among us. The next step is prevention as well as for them to be us with a language few people speak.
to put the principle of responsibility to willing to follow through on their However, I would also say that one

Summer 2008 11
UMD Voice
should never forget where one comes Kerim: New York is a great city – it Kerim: I have always liked listening
from. We should always cherish our seems fast and always moving but I to Frank Sinatra, Dean Mar tin,
own national identities and be proud find that it can also be quite relaxing. Louis Armstrong and of course Ella
of who we are. Without respect for For me, taking a walk in Central Park Fitzgerald. That is my favored musical
our own roots we cannot respect the is a great way to cleanse my mind world. But most recently a friend of
cultures and identities of others. and clear my thoughts. Going to a mine gave me a CD from the group,
Broadway show or an opera at the The Pink Martinis. The moment I
UMD: What do you miss the most Metropolitan is another way for me to heard them – they play a wide selection
about Macedonia? unwind after a long day. of international easy-listening type
lounge music – I became a fan. In fact
Kerim: I would say mostly I miss the UMD: How do you like NYC as a place I decided to buy a copy of their most
friends I have at home – their company, to live? recent CD for each member of my team
the relaxed atmosphere and discussions as a welcome gift just as the General
we have had over local food and drinks Kerim: New York is a unique Assembly opened. Little did I know
-- and coffee. And talking about coffee: intellectual and cultural city which I that by ordering close to 30 copies
I must confess that in spite of all the have always enjoyed. Its multicultural of their CD I became their favorite
variety of coffee flavors New York and lively character is something I customer and weeks later I find my
offers, I do miss the coffee from home. like. I must confess that I am utterly name mentioned in an article in the
Also, of course the country itself, the cosmopolitan and this city is utterly Los Angeles Times that portrayed the
natural surroundings, especially the cosmopolitan so we are absolutely on Band. So now the Pink Martinis have
long quiet walks in the mountains. the same wavelength. definitely entered my musical world
and it seems that the 62nd General
UMD: After a long day at the UN, how UMD: What is your favorite music Assembly and its President has entered
do you relax in New York City? band/artist? theirs.

Dr. and Mrs. Kerim with Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes

12 Summer 2008
Photos: Alexander Krstevski
UMD Voice

New Jersey’s Slavko Madzarov Named

Macedonian Honorary Consul
By Aleksandar Mitreski
On August 29, 2007, New Jersey Guests traveled
resident Slavko Madzarov was named from throughout
Honorary Consul for the State of the United States
New Jersey by the Government of and Macedonia
the Republic of Macedonia. Over to celebrate
150 guests, including representatives the occasion,
from the Federal, New Jersey, and i n c l u d i ng
local governments, as well as the representatives
Macedonian government, attended of both UMD and
a ceremony at the Getty Avenue the Macedonian
office of Slavko Construction, Inc. Human R ights
in Clifton, New Jersey. Madzarov, Movement of the
who immigrated to the United States Un ited St ates,
in 1987 from Miravci, Macedonia, and Madzarov’s
stood alongside Dr. Zoran Jolevski, parents, who
Macedonian Ambassador to the United came from
States, to unveil a plaque bearing the Macedonia.
seal of the Republic of Macedonia.
The plaque will remain affixed to the Madzarov, who
front of the Getty Avenue building, has l ived i n
which houses the new Honorary Clifton for over
Consulate for the State of New Jersey. 20 years, established a construction Orthodox parish communities St. Kiril
and asbestos demolition company, and Metodij in Cedar Grove, NJ. Nikola
A mbassador Jolevsk i expressed Slavko Const r uc t ion, I nc., t wo in Totowa, NJ, and St. Clement of Ohrid
gratitude to Madzarov for his “good years after arriving in the US. In in Queens, New York. Madzarov
relations and personal friendship recognition of his business leadership also sits on the United Macedonian
with a great number of local, state and community service, Madzarov Diaspor a Counci l, an advisor y
and federal rank politicians, like has been awarded and honored group composed of individuals with
Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr., which by the Passaic Count y Sheriff ’s backgrounds in business and public
has helped in many ways in promoting Department, the Polish-American service that works to stimulate and
and protecting Macedonian interests Children’s Foundation, 200 Club in support the work of UMD.
in U.S.” Congressman Pascrell, who Passaic County,
represents the 8th district of New the New Jersey
Jersey, thanked Madzarov for his Civil Ser vice
friendship, noting Madzarov’s strong Association,
love for his homeland and willingness the Sheriff
to help his people in any way he Jer r y Speziale
can. Mayor James Anzaldi of Clifton Foundation for
presented Madzarov with the Key to the Community
City and proclaimed September 8th as Ser vice, and
Macedonia Day in Clifton. Madzarov, the Giblin
in his remarks, stated that “the Foundations’
opening of the Honorary Consulate is Annual Award.
an honor for the whole Macedonian-
American community of New Jersey, Madzarov is an
which first started immigrating to this avid supporter
great state a century ago. With over of various
20,000 Macedonian-Americans living Macedonian
in this state, a new chapter has begun, organizations
ensuring stronger bonds between us i n c lu d i ng t h e
and our homeland.” Macedonian
Slavko Madzarov with Congressman Pascrell

Summer 2008 13
UMD Voice

Photos: Emil Ivanovski

AMSUT Pursues Big Objectives for 2008
By Nick Misketi, President of AMSUT
The Association of Macedonian Students as well as Canadian Macedonian Place, is an extremely important initiative
at the University of Toronto (AMSUT) which is the Macedonian seniors’ home that the club takes seriously and is
have set some very ambitious goals for in Toronto. working hard to pursue. The belief
the 2008 year. This year, the club hopes to lend is that the Macedonian culture needs
AMSUT, formed in 1988, has a hand not only to other Macedonian to be promoted to the multicultural
seen its share of ups and downs over organizations but also to organizations communities of Toronto so that they may
the years. The club was dormant for in the city that deal with socially both enjoy it and be educated about it.
a short period of time before being responsible causes which are important Currently, the club is working on
resurrected in 2002 and has since been to the general community. AMSUT bringing a performance of the critically
trying to bring together Macedonian believes strongly that it’s important to acclaimed “Who the Hell Started All of
students across all three campuses of the reach out to the community as much as This?” to the University of Toronto. The
University of Toronto. possible and build strong relationships play is written by Macedonian author
For 2008, the club has clearly within it. and playwright Dejan Dukovski and has
defined its objectives. AMSUT resolves Also related to this initiative is been very successful throughout Europe
to focus on four priorities – membership, fund-raising. This year the club looks in its ten year run. In August of this
community service, fund-raising, and forward to organizing events that will year Fallen Angel Theatre presented this
cultural promotion and expansion. raise money for various Macedonian performance to a Canadian audience for
While increasing membership is the top organizations. A couple of years ago the the first time in city of Toronto. The club
priority the club is also looking forward club held a pub night in support of the hopes to draw attention to this amazing
to reaching out to the Macedonian Tsunami relief effort which managed to piece of work which showcases some of
community. raise a modest sum for the cause. AMSUT our most talented Macedonian artists.
In previous years the club hopes to put on similar events this year AMSUT is committed to all these
has done much volunteer work for the where its members can contribute to objectives and is working hard to spread
Macedonian community in Toronto. Past the Macedonian community and have a the Macedonian culture, build a stronger
members have helped out at St. Clement good time as well. community, and unite the Macedonian
of Ohrid Macedonian Orthodox Church Finally, cultural promotion youth.

Visiting the Detroit and Windsor Communities

By UMD Staff
During the weekend of August 24-26, heritage. Following the meeting, both (R-MI). The youth presence at the festival
2007, UMD President and Vice President, representatives were interviewed by the was encouraging. UMD congratulates the
Metodija A. Koloski and Aleksandar local Macedonian radio program. community on a job well done.
Mitreski paid a working visit to the
Macedonian communities in Windsor, The next two days, both representatives
Ontario, Canada and Sterling Heights, participated at the annual festival organized
Michigan, USA. by St. Mary Macedonian Orthodox
Church in Sterling Heights, Michigan.
On Friday, August 24th, UMD President The Macedonian-American community
and Vice President gave a presentation in Michigan is the largest community in
about the organization’s mission, the United States. With several thousand
structure, and key policy priorities in front in attendance, the festival was very lively
of parishioners at the hall of St. Nikola and full of great dancing and delicious
Macedonian Orthodox Church. Very traditional Macedonian cooking. Koloski
Reverend Dr. Aleksandar Mustenikov and Mitreski provided remarks, in
and the president of the parish board addition, to the speeches made by the
presided at the meeting, initiated by local president of the parish board, Svetozar
Windsor artist Gligor Stefanov. Koloski Stameski, the Macedonian Ambassador
and Mitreski stressed the necessity for to the United States, Dr. Zoran Jolevski,
Macedonian-Canadians in Windsor to the Macedonian Consul General, Dragan
get more involved in their community Jordanovski, and a representative from the
a nd pr omote t hei r M ace don i a n Office of Congresswoman Candice Miller

14 Summer 2008
Photos: UMD Staff
UMD Voice

60 Years On, Macedonians Commemorate The Lost

Generation of Child Refugees
By UMD Staff
2008 marks the 60th anniversary of territories in Asia Minor.
the historical mass exodus of hundreds
of thousands of Macedonians from Today, the official line from Athens
northern Greece, among them 44,000 is that the Hellenic Republic is an
children between the ages of 2 and 14. “ethnically pure” state, denying
These children, without their parents, evidence to the contrary from the
often without documents, were put on US State Depar tment, A m nest y
trains and sent to Romania, Poland, International, Helsinki Watch and the
Hungary, Czechoslovakia, and the United Nations.
Soviet Union. Macedonians refer to
this generation of refugee children the However, in 1988, the old Greek
“Deca Begalci.” (pronounced “DET-za strategy of not even mentioning the
BEG-al-tzi”) word “Macedonia” was changed, and
Greece started renaming its northern
Now well in their late 60s, 70s, and 80s, province with that name, in hopes of
the Deca Begalci are trying to reclaim denying it from the ethnic Macedonian
their homes and farms in Greece. people, and completing the planned
However, the Greek government assimilation. Three years later, the
refuses to acknowledge their claim or dream of Goce Delcev was realized,
apologize for the injustices committed and the Republic of Macedonia was
against them. born, in 1991. The Greek government
Aleksandar Mitreski giving
has also been waging a war of
remarks at Deca Begalci Banquet
At the dawn of the 20th Century, the propaganda against Macedonia ever
European Powers were determined by the Greek government and the since.
to fight back an aggressive Ottoman Greek Orthodox Church. In a matter
Sultan from the borders of Austro- of 80 years, a population that a French On May 10, 2008, the Association of
Hungary. In 1913, Greece was gifted a census verified as being well over 1.5 the Macedonian Children Refugees
large portion of geographic Macedonia million has been reduced to roughly based in Toronto held a banquet to
at the Treaty of Bucharest. Prior to 200,000 today. The effect on Aegean commemorate the 60th anniversary of
and since that fateful year, the Greek Macedonia’s ethnic composition was the mass exodus, with proceeds going
government, military and corrupt compounded by waves of ethnic toward the 4th International Gathering
Greek clerics on the government payroll Greek refugees fleeing Turkish-held of Deca Begalci this summer. The
committed gross gat her i ng w i l l
acts of genocide, take place from
ethnic cleaning July 12-13 in the
atrocities, Czech Republic,
and systemic J u l y 18 -19 i n
d i s c r i m i n at ion Macedonia,
against the and July 20
Macedonian i n O r ovc h a n i ,
people. Greece. T he
Macedonian
Even to this day, Academy of Arts
Macedonians who and Sciences
were forced out will display
of Greece during photographs
the Greek Civil and books and
War have no right hold a publ ic
to compensation symposium
for their private r e g a r d i ng t h e
properties, which Deca Begalci.
were confiscated Left to right: Aleksandar Mitreski, Deca Begalci
President Risto Cackirovski, and Michael Sarafin

Summer 2008 15
UMD Voice

Photos courtesy of: Thomas Bitove

Interview with Thomas Bitove
By Meto Koloski
of my life – the first 2 being the births of of Macedonian descent. During a recent
my daughters! trip to Macedonia, returning after 30 years,
I was very impressed with the vibrancy
UMD: What advice would you give to those of the country. This vibrancy did not
who would like to get involved more with exist 30 years ago! Macedonia is on the
charity work? cusp of something fantastic. The youth
of Macedonia are so very fortunate to be
Bitove: Join a charity that you are there today and to enjoy the fruits of our
passionate about, that way it becomes a ancestors.
labor of love and it will never seem like For those young Macedonians living outside
it is a bother or a chore. Once you join, Macedonia, be proud of your adopted
commit yourself to success - whatever role countries but consider a trip to Macedonia
it is you perform. While fundraising is to give you a better understanding of what
the lifeblood of many charities, the other you are all about. I was fortunate enough
volunteer roles are equally important. to take one of my daughters with me on
Thomas J. Bitove is the son of John and my trip last year and she “connected” with
Dotsa Bitove. He is a leading Toronto UMD: How can Macedonians throughout Macedonia in a way I never expected.
businessman and pillar of the community the world help Macedonia? She was emotionally overwhelmed when
who has supported many charitable causes we visited the ancestral homes of her
including Big Brothers, the Canadian Bitove: So many Macedonians are grandparents in Gabresh and Shestevo,
Macedonian Place and ProAction Cops passionate about Macedonia that if we could Aegean Macedonia, finally understanding
and Kids. harness this passion, many issues could what her ancestors had endured to give
be resolved. What we must remember is her the live she has. As a parent, I couldn’t
that in any cause and for that matter in life, have been prouder.
UMD: What inspired you to get involved there is no perfect world. As long as we
with charity? are committed to the vision and mission of UMD: What would you recommend the
supporting Macedonia, we should not get United Macedonian Diaspora do to help
Bitove: We grew up in a family where bogged down in petty differences that take further the Macedonian cause globally?
giving back to our communities was the us away from our ultimate goal.
norm. Growing up, our parents were Macedonia has so much promise - we are Bitove: It must start in our global
involved in so many causes, many of them surrounded by vibrant economies, we have communities. UMD should focus on
Macedonian causes. When each of my the tremendous untapped potential in our getting Macedonians focused on our
brothers, sister and I became involved in youth, etc. All we need is the opportunity common good, not individual agendas.
charity work, it just seemed natural. to show the world how great we are to Successes like Canadian Macedonian Place
We never got involved in charity to get get to the next level for the citizens of in Toronto, Ontario, Canada are an example
recognized, so to be formally recognized Macedonia. of how we can forward the Macedonian
with the highest civilian honor a citizen of For Macedonians living outside Macedonia, community globally. This project was the
Ontario can receive, I was humbled. When we need their commitment to spend first time the entire Macedonian community
the magnitude of the honor sunk in, I was time and resources to help our fellow in Toronto came together for our common
proud beyond description. To be the first Macedonians in Macedonia. When good. These types of projects allow us
Macedonian to receive the honor and for I travel, I am always impressed by how to celebrate our ancestry and ultimately
this fact to be noted in the presentation of many passionate Macedonians there are they remind us of our roots. Once we
the citation was the third proudest moment outside Macedonia. Many have achieved acknowledge and understand our roots,
tremendous success in their adopted we can then focus on the ultimate goal –
homelands but they still feel the passion furthering the Macedonian cause globally.
for Macedonia. That is so reassuring to see Ultimately, there is a new need to respect
and hear. each other and work in a unified manner
towards a common goal! Our ancestors
UMD: What words of encouragement can suffered great injustices trying to further
you give young Macedonians? the common Macedonian cause and
identity. We must remember that every
Bitove: I saw how proud my grandparents effort we put forth should be focused on
were to be Macedonian, I see how proud advancing the Macedonian cause, not
my parents are and it makes me proud. I individual agendas.
am so very proud to tell people that I am

16 Summer 2008
Photos: Emil Ivanovski
UMD Voice

Macedonian-Americans
of Illinois, Indiana
Meet With UMD, Give
Generously to Charity
By Emil Ivanovski
In December 2007, UMD Culture
Aw a r e n e s s D i r e c t o r M a r i n a
Veljanovska enjoyed a short tour
of Illinois and Indiana at the
invitation of local Macedonian-
American community groups. It
was an opportunity for Veljanovska
to i nt ro duce U M D’s work i n
Washington, DC, while learning
m o r e a b o u t h ow g r a s s r o o t s
organizations in Chicago and Crown
Point are making a difference at the
local level.

After a morning interview on Radio

Biser in Chicago - Veljanovska
visited Sts. Peter & Paul Macedonian
Orthodox Church for the 2007
Women’s Christmas Party. Her
presentation about UMD was warmly
received, and a fundraiser followed
it for the “Detsko Selo” Project. The
next day, UMD joined Sts. Kiril &
Metodij Macedonian Or thodox
Church in Hinsdale, Illinois for the
“Hats Off to Women” Fashion Show,
designed to bring the community
together, promote fellowship with
other Macedonians, and raise money
for the church.

UMD is especially grateful to

both communities for generous
donations to the Detsko Selo
Project. Veljanovska was pleased
with the support noting, “Children
at orphanages in Macedonia are
in need of our help, and thanks to
the support of the community in
Indiana and Illinois, the children
at the Detsko Selo orphanages will
have a big smile on their faces for
Christmas.”

Summer 2008 17
UMD Voice

Photos courtesy of: YMCA

Somerset Hills
YMC A Reaches
Across the Globe
By UMD Staff
Plans to extend its mission beyond the
Somerset Hills and forge an international
partnership with a YMCA in the Balkan
region began in the summer of 2006
when leaders from the Somerset Hills
YMCA took part in a trip to the Balkan
region to meet with staff, members and
young volunteers of fledgling YMCAs
in Bulgaria, Macedonia and northern
Greece. A year later, the Somerset
Hills YMCA signed an agreement with
the YCS YMCA in Skopje, Macedonia
and is now fully entrenched in the democracies forward,” said Luik. “It is the Balkan Youth Festival in Ohrid,
process of establishing a mutually truly remarkable to see the innovative Macedonia. The impact that it made on
enriching collaboration between the things they are doing, despite having each of their lives was life-changing and
two organizations. limited resources and facing many helped to expand their perspective with
economic and cultural obstacles.” regard to the international community.
The official agreement between the The teens participated in a variety of
Somerset Hills YMCA and the YCS “The Y in Skopje particularly impressed team building activities that helped
YMCA in Skopje was signed in the us in the way that it is mobilizing them learn about each other and the
summer of 2007, marking the official and inspiring young people in the cultures of their new friends.
beginning of a symbiotic partnership community and providing vital, basic
bet ween the organizations. T he human services. I think we have a great “As an organization dedicated to
relationship will provide opportunities deal to offer each other,” Luik added. building strong kids, strong families,
for cultural exchange, shared best and strong communities, it is important
practices and a broader worldview for It is this ongoing, mutually beneficial that we look beyond our borders to
all participants. exchange of ideas that sets this assist people around the world,” said
international outreach program apart Bob Lomauro, President/CEO of the
The relationship began following an from others. By partnering with Somerset Hills YMCA. “Our partnership
initial trip in 2006 when Lauren Luik, the YMCA in Macedonia, the well- with the Skopje YMCA will enable
then Chair of the Board of Directors, established Somerset Hills YMCA will us to promote dialogue, awareness
and Carolyn Vasquez, Family Services be able to provide strategic counsel and advocacy on critical issues that
Director for the Somerset Hills YMCA, and support to this young, growing affect YMCAs, youth, families and
traveled with a delegation of US-based organization, but will also learn a great communities and help us to develop
YMCA representatives to participate in deal. globally minded citizens with a mutual
an International Leadership Institute respect for other cultures.”
run by Y-USA in conjunction with “The Skopje YMCA has expertise in
the Balkan Strategic Alliance Group. successfully integrating ethnically To learn more about the Somerset
Their trip was highlighted by meetings diverse people, as well as in youth Hills YMCA’s community outreach and
with key leaders of YMCAs who are leadership development,” said Vasquez. international initiatives, as well as the
playing a crucial role in education, “As our organization expands and looks partnership with the YCS YMCA in
youth development, and community to offer more programs and services to Skopje, visit the Somerset Hills YMCA
engagement as the region emerges from the varied populations of the Somerset online at www.somersethillsymca.org.
communism. Hills, we will be able to look to our
colleagues in Skopje, and learn from Editor’s Not e: U M D h a s me t
At the time, Lauren commented that, the success that they have had.” representatives from both the Somerset
“These promising, but in some cases, Hills and Skopje YMCA’s and fully
struggling, YMCAs in the Balkan supports such great initiatives. In the
region are filling an essential need in For example, this past summer five teen coming months, UMD plans to work
their society, teaching young people volunteers, accompanied by Y staff and with both YMCA’s to advance the
leadership skills to help move new adult volunteer chaperones, attended mission of this program.

18 Summer 2008
Photos courtesy of: George Tomov
UMD Voice

Macedonian in New York Honored in Skopje

By Sheila Krstevski
George Tomov Biography published in
Macedonian, English
George Tomov’s life as a teacher of Macedonian culture
has been documented in a 320-page volume released in
the spring of 2007 in Skopje. Tomov has been an active
member of the Macedonian Diaspora since his arrival in
the United States more than 40 years ago and is known by
many as an ambassador of Macedonian culture. The book,
published in both Macedonian and English, is rich with
photographs and text describing Tomov’s life as a member
of the Yugoslav folklore ensemble Lado and Macedonian
ensemble Tanec, and for the famous Tomov Folk Dance
Ensemble, which instructed Americans in Macedonian
folklore for 35 years in New York.

Tomov – born in Strumica – studied in Skopje

where he earned degrees in sculpture and architecture.
His career in folklore began with the Zagreb-based folklore
ensemble Lado and Skopje-based Tanec for whom he was
a showcased performer. He moved to the United States in
1967, where he earned notoriety among American folklore
enthusiasts by teaching college and community-organized
dance workshops. Before long dancers all over the United
States sought the instruction of George Tomov.

In 1974, a dream Tomov had described since

leaving Macedonia came true: his Tomov Folk Dance
Ensemble was founded in New York City! The ensemble
was composed of 40 professional singers and dancers –
primarily Americans enamored with Yugoslav folkdance –
who, under Tomov’s tutelage, performed songs and dances Tomov’s 70th birthday. His friends, both Macedonian and
from different regions of Yugoslavia in authentic regional American, performed Macedonian music and the crowd
costumes. It was a glorious success! In 1979 and 1981, danced the night away.
the Ensemble was invited by the Yugoslav government to
tour the country where they also participated in Bitola’s In 2005, Tomov received the prestigious Ellis Island
Ilindenski Denovi celebration. In 1980, they performed at Medal of Honor. This medal is awarded to immigrants or
the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid. Though in 2000, at their descendents who arrived in the USA via the Port of
the age of 67 Tomov finally retired the ensemble after 35 New York or Ellis Island for outstanding contribution to
successful years, he continues to teach Macedonian youth their own ethnic group and to American Society.
in the New Jersey Diaspora as co-director of the Goce
Delcev Macedonian Folkdance Ensemble, a Macedonian Tomov was warmly welcomed in Skopje where,
amateur dance group. He is also the Director of the annual when he returned for the book’s release, Fokus Magazine
European Folk Festival – which for 35 years has featured praised him as a “living legend of Macedonian folklore.”
diverse folk-dance groups including but not limited to Following his trip, the Brooklyn Heights International Folk
Macedonian, Greek, Serbian, Bulgarian, Hungarian, Dancers honored him in New York with a celebratory
Ukrainian, Polish, Russian, and Norwegian – and is dinner in his honor. On December 8, 2007, the biography
sponsored by the Slavic Heritage Council of America. was launched in New Jersey. Guests included Congressman
Bill Pascrell, former Ambassador and Mrs. Jordan Plevnes,
In 2003, hundreds of people, both Macedonian and Macedonia’s Honorary Consul for New Jersey, Slavko
and American, including former members of the Tomov Madzarov.
Ensemble filled the main hall of New Jersey’s Sts. Kiril
and Metodij Macedonian Cultural Center in celebration of

Summer 2008 19
UMD Voice

Photos: Alexander Krstevski

UMD Holds Grassroots Event in
Cedar Grove, New Jersey
By UMD Staff
On November 18, 2007, UMD Founders Nikola Milevski. The parish priest goals, and plans to open an office in
Boban Jovanovski, Meto Koloski, Father Slobodan Petkovski also gave Washington, D.C. and hire a full-time
Denis Manevski, Aleksandar Mitreski, remarks. Meto Koloski introduced the professional staff.
and Marina Veljanovska traveled to role of the organization and its history,
Cedar Grove, New Jersey to hold a followed by a presentation by Boban The presentation was well-received
presentation about UMD’s global Jovanovski regarding UMD’s Macedonia and provided for a thought-provoking
agenda at the Macedonian Cultural in NATO 2008 and Macedonia in EU discussion, which lasted two hours.
Center adjacent to Sts. Kiril and Metodij 2012 campaigns. Marina Veljanovska UMD was praised for its efforts
Macedonian Orthodox Church. Over discussed the organization’s charitable addressing the interests and needs of
200 Macedonian-Americans attended and cultural activities, specifically Macedonians, particularly for the fact
and had the opportunity to exchange our annual Christmas drive for less that it is an all-volunteer organization
ideas and comment on the work of fortunate children and orphans in that in 4 years has managed to become
UMD during the last 4 years. Macedonia. Aleksandar Mitreski the largest and strongest Macedonian
i n for med the audience on our organization in the Diaspora.
The meeting was opened by the activities regarding name recognition
host organizer Macedonian Human and the current human rights situation Plans are in store to hold such
Rights Movement of the United States of Macedonians living in Albania, presentations in other Macedonian
President Dragan Slavkovski and Bulgaria, Greece, and Serbia. Last but communities throughout the world.
Sts. Kiril and Metodij Macedonian not least, Denis Manevski briefed those Stay tuned…
Orthodox Church Board President present on UMD’s budget, fundraising

20 Summer 2008
Photos courtesy of: Bowling Green State University Monitor
UMD Voice

Gorsevski to Bring
Geological Expertise
to Macedonia as
Fulbright Scholar
Published in the Bowling Green State
University Monitor on January 7, 2008
(Reprinted with permission)
Bordered by Greece and Bulgaria, Macedonia
isn’t foreign to Dr. Peter Gorsevski. He is
a native of the country and in 1992 received
his bachelor’s degree in forestry at Ss. Cyril
and Methodius University there. He received
his master’s degree in forest engineering from Oregon State “I’d like to develop a strong network of researchers and
University in 1996 and his doctorate from the University of others who are interested in bringing Macedonia into the 21st
Idaho in 2002. century in an economically and environmentally sustainable
manner,” he said.
A specialist in geospatial sciences, Dr. Gorsevski uses satellite
technology and other data to interpret natural processes. The Dr. Gorsevski said he was drawn to BGSU by the new School
information can help humans “hopefully interact and manage of Earth, Environment and Society.
things like forests, water resources and other natural resources
in both an economically and environmentally sustainable “Its diversity of faculty, cutting-edge interdisciplinary research
way,” he said. and bright student body really impressed me when I came
here to interview,” he said.
He said he wanted to return to Macedonia because he knows
the language and has “expertise in precisely the data and He is still a new face on campus, having joined the BGSU
land-management strategies that a developing nation like community just this academic year. For that reason, Dr. Charles
Macedonia can really benefit from. Onasch, geology and director of the school, was surprised
that Peter won the competitive award.
“I like to work on research that will help Macedonia adapt
to its transition toward a market economy, with all the “It’s a tremendous honor and a very competitive fellowship,
related challenges that brings for Macedonia’s rich natural and he got it relatively early in his career,” Onasch said.
environment.”
Dr. Gorsevski was also surprised. “This is truly an honor for
He plans on sharing his findings with other researchers me. When I was working on the grant, I knew the odds were
and faculty, as well as with students and the Macedonian small because the competition is so great. I will endeavor to
government. do the best research and teaching work I can, to live up to the
Fulbright standard.”

Even with the prestigious award, he doesn’t forget his students,

who are one of his two favorite parts of the job.

“It’s hard to choose what I like better: working with students or

working with data,” Dr. Gorsevski said. “Either way, each kind
of work helps inform the other and keeps me productive.”

Luckily, Dr. Gorsevski won’t have to choose between students

and data this spring; he will incorporate both teaching and
research into his experience.

His research interests include GIScience and remote sensing,

grid modeling, multicriteria decision analysis, and terrain and
watershed analysis.

Summer 2008 21
UMD Voice

Photos: Emil Ivanovski

Left to right: Denis Manevski, Marina Veljanovska, Aleksandar Mitreski, and Meto Koloski

33rd Annual Convention Draws Macedonians to Cincinnati;

UMD Offers Forum for an Exchange of Ideas
By Aleksandar Mitreski
In the largest gathering of the North Vice President, Treasurer and Director of for intimate discussion on the direction
American Diaspora, Macedonians from Cultural Awareness, Metodija A. Koloski, of Macedonian causes. UMD Treasurer,
across the continent flooded the halls Aleksandar Mitreski, Denis Manevski, and Denis Manevski praised the participants,
of the Millennium Hotel in Cincinnati, Marina Veljanovska. Several prominent calling the forum “a great opportunity
Ohio for the 33rd annual American- Macedonians at tended, including to meet young aspiring Macedonians,”
Canadian Macedonian Orthodox Diocese businessman George Atanasoski, and and saying that “through the ongoing and
Convention on September 1, 2007. The Slavko Mangovski, former Editor-in-Chief open exchange of ideas, new relationships
event, known to Macedonians simply of the international weekly Makedonsko can be forged and a stronger, more united
as “the Convention,” has become a Sonce. Macedonian Diaspora is being built.”
ritual celebration of culture and identity
for thousands in the North American Following presentations by representatives UMD representatives later met privately
Diaspora. of UMD, American-born Macedonian His Grace, Metropolitan Metodij of the
Minister for Foreign Direct Investment, American-CanadianMacedonianOrthodox
D u r i ng t he C onvent ion, Un ited Gligor Tashkovich discussed investment Diocese to discuss UMD’s mission and the
Macedonian Diaspora’s leadership hosted opportunities in Macedonia, and ways potential for future cooperation.
an informational meeting where they spoke that UMD’s members can help increase
about issues currently facing Macedonians awareness about Macedonia’s investment Stay tuned to our website for information
and how UMD is working to address them potential and climate. about our activities during future
in Washington D.C. and around the world. conventions.
Among the speakers were UMD President, Attendees then had a unique opportunity

22 Summer 2008
 MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR MACEDONIA!
JOIN UMD TODAY!

United Macedonian Diaspora (“UMD”) is a global non-governmental and non-for-profit organization addressing
the interests and needs of Macedonians and Macedonian communities throughout the world. UMD is a 501 (c) (3)
charitable organization.

Your membership helps foster the unity of the Macedonian people by ensuring the progress and advancement of
the traditional Macedonian spiritual, historical, and socio-cultural heritage furthered by charitable, educational,
public, and other community-minded endeavors. It is only through your support that UMD can remain effective
and continue to advocate the Macedonian cause. We sincerely thank you for your generosity.

Help move the Macedonian cause forward by joining TODAY! United, We Can!

Membership tiers in U.S. Dollars per year (please check one):

[ ] Student $15 (please include a copy of your student ID)

[ ] Individual $35 [ ] Family $100 [ ] Supporter $250 [ ] Sponsor $500
[ ] Sustaining $1,000 [ ] Patron $2,500 [ ] Benefactor $5,000

[ ] Washington Club [ ] Canberra Club [ ] Brussels Club [ ] Ottawa Club -- each $10,000

Please fill out the form below:

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
First Name Last Name

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Please list family members if signing up for family membership

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title Business, Church, or Organization

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
City State/Province Zip Code Country

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E-mail Phone Fax

You can also visit our website at www.umdiaspora.org to become a member, or mail this completed form with
check or money order made payable to ‘United Macedonian Diaspora’ to:

United Macedonian Diaspora

1101 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, 6th Floor
Washington, D.C. 20004
Please direct all questions to info@umdiaspora.org or (202) 756-2244
The United Macedonian Diaspora is grateful for all the help
Delo Logic Arts has provided with design and layout of our
new publication UMD Voice magazine.

Delo Logic Arts is proud to assist in the efforts of the

United Macedonian Diaspora - an organization uniting
Macedonians worldwide - and looks forward to continued
collaboration. Delo Logic Arts expresses best wishes and
success in the important work of UMD.

www.delologicarts.com

United Macedonian Diaspora

1101 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, 6th Floor
Washington, D.C. 20004
Phone: (202) 756-2244
Fax: (202) 756-7323
E-mail: info@umdiaspora.org
http://www.umdiaspora.org