1000 Types of Ambiguity

Roger Sanchez - Another chance - Original Mix (Music Video)

2009-03-14T02:28:00.001-04:00

I don't know why, but I really like this video.

A New Era

2009-01-20T17:27:00.005-05:00

Today, once again, I feel proud to be an American. Not that I wasn't proud since the 5th of November, but I am prouder than I have ever been before and that will continue into tomorrow when Guantanamo Bay is closed for good, and more impending changes are made reality within the next four years. Never have I seen a president of this country inspire more hope, more passion, and raise more awareness on the people that run our country. You could say Bush Jr. played a part in that, but we the Democrats, the asses, knew from the beginning that America was wrong to choose him; yet it was all part of the plan in the end, for we received this wonderful gift of an educated president that will lead us to the top of the mountain. And because I've never had the chance to enjoy a presidential speech (I was too young to comprehend Clinton's), here is one that will be hard to forget, and truly made history.

"My fellow citizens:

I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors. I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.

Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because we the people have remained faithful to the ideals of our forebears, and true to our founding documents.
So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.

That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.
These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land — a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.

Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America — they will be met.
On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.

On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.
We remain a young nation, but in the words of scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.

In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of shortcuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the faint-hearted — for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things — some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.

For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life.

For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.

For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sahn.
Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.

This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions — that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.
For everywhere we look, there is work to be done. The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act — not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost. We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do. And all this we will do.

Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions — who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.

What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them — that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply. The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works — whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end. And those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account — to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day — because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.

Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control — and that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous. The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our gross domestic product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart — not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.

As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our founding fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.
Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.

We are the keepers of this legacy. Guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort — even greater cooperation and understanding between nations. We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.

For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus — and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.

To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West — know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.

To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.

As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us today, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. And yet, at this moment — a moment that will define a generation — it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.

For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies. It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours. It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.

Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends — hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism — these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility — a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.

This is the price and the promise of citizenship.

This is the source of our confidence — the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.

This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed — why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.

So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:

"Let it be told to the future world ... that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive...that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet (it)."

America, in the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations."

-President Barack Hussein Obama at his Inauguration as 44th President of the United States.

Taken from Associated Press

Irreconcilable Differences?

2009-01-08T01:11:00.003-05:00

When I was younger, my mother told me this was why we (Sunni Muslims) were different from Shi'a. I knew it was true, but she could have told me the whole truth.

The Mandatory New Year Post

2009-01-02T18:43:00.004-05:00

It is now 2009. We got through Bush's final year as president, and now he has a little over 2 weeks left. Finally.

What does 2009 have to look forward to?

Obama's Presidency: 18 days from now, Barack Hussein Obama will be sworn in as the shiny new black President of the United States of America. A lot of America has faith (forbidden, religion-tied word I will never use in my blog again, but I include myself in this statement) in his leadership, and we are positive he will pull us out of this financial rut.

Low Gas Prices: Last week, while driving in New Jersey (cheaper than New York City!) I discovered gas prices at $1.47 a gallon. Down from roughly $4 a gallon in August. Wow. I am still a bike advocate though.

Ending the Iraq War?: Even though the US and Iraq negotiators agreed on a full withdrawal by 2011, I think our new president will make a smarter decision.

The Beginning of Health Care Reform: Why is every word longer than three letters capitalized in bold? I don't know. Right, health care reform for the US, because everyone needs it. We won't have to pay thousands of dollars a year to attain health care! Capitalism is screwed in that aspect.

Bon Iver's New EP: Okay, not as important as the last four, but still exciting.

I can't think of anything else, because a lot of it factors into our new president. It truly is a great thing.

As the Specials say, it's the Dawning of a New Era.

Trusting the Trustees

2008-12-11T00:07:00.003-05:00

On Monday, December 8th, New School President Bob Kerrey wrote an announcement to students, telling them that the university's Provost, Dr. Joseph Westphal, stepped down. Originally, Dr. Westphal was supposed to be absent for two weeks to work on Obama's transition team, but Kerrey either made him step down or he fired him. As a result, Kerrey took over as both Provost and President until the university finds an interim provost.

There is a vast difference between the duties of a President and the duties of a Provost. The President is more like the chief fundraiser and face of the university whereas the Provost is the chief academic advisor.

Yesterday, the faculty senate held a meeting (it was a regularly scheduled meeting, but very timely at that) to discuss Kerrey's recent decision. Kerrey was in attendance at the end, but that was a very important element from the meeting. The faculty basically discussed the next steps for Kerrey, and asked him to strongly think about having Dr. Westphal return.

Today, at 2 PM, there was a senior and senate faculty meeting. The senate, along with non-senators and non-senior members, voted "no confidence" in Kerrey and Jim Murtha, the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the university. The vote was unanimous for Murtha, and 74-2 with one abstention for Kerrey, according to a document given to me by David Howell, chair for the faculty senate and Milano professor.

Ten minutes after the senate meeting (around 3:30 or so), there was a meeting with the Board of Trustees. Outside of the building the meeting was held (55 West 13th St), Students for Democratic Society, a radical student group, was protesting. Their reason was for the treasurer Robert B. Millard, a man who allegedly has ties to war profiteering in Iraq because he serves as the chairman for L3 Communications. The argument from SDS is that students' investments in the university goes to paying for war.

That, of course, made the security level higher which ultimately disallowed any sort of press entrance to the second floor of the building. We tried to sneak onto the floor by taking the back stairwell, but failed because an alarm was set off on the floor above us. So we sat and waited in the lobby, along with the protestors who sat on the floor and remained a fire hazard.

As trustees trailed out, including Eugene M. Lang and Millard, things got a little more exciting. Of course, no trustees wanted to talk, and most of them said nothing was going on. In truth, nothing did go on. The reception came first, and that was all that happened until those who decided to leave, left. Then, there was a closed meeting, in which trustees can talk about whether Kerrey and Murtha should stay or go. Both are staying, of course.

The most interesting part of the night was when Millard came out. He did not speak to any reporters, but as he got into his car, protestors flocked toward him, throwing themselves at the window and screaming "shame." It was like looking those poorly made films when cavemen are dancing around a fire, wondering what the hell they just did.

Well, what the hell did those protestors just do? They made themselves lose credibility more than anyone else. Why? Because they hate this university, they hate the president, they can't stand it anymore so they go about protesting against the university. I like that these students have an opinion, and want to have their voices heard, but this is not the way to do it. The University Student Senate was created for this very reason, and fighting with security guards and police officers doesn't give them a voice, it silences them more. By doing this, they make me want to ask SDS more and more, "Why do any of you go here?"

I'll Have an Order of Peace, Please!

2008-11-27T11:46:00.002-05:00

I tried writing a post about two place in the world that recently experienced tragedy, but it's so hard because there is more than one place in the world experiencing such tragedy. Last night, Mumbai experienced multiple, simultaneous terrorist attacks that killed over 100 people. This morning, Afghanistan was attacked by a suicide car bomber. The conflict with the Somali pirate hostage situation is still going on, with two Western journalists recently kidnapped.

I could sit here and blog about all the major problems going on in the world right now, but that would take up the whole day. It puts a damper on my day (especially today) that the world can't experience at least one hour or half hour of peace. If only the Yes Men's New York Times were true.

Behind the Scenes: Election Night

2008-11-09T18:34:00.000-05:00

Our new President on Election Night.

Obama Takes Risks!

2008-11-09T13:11:00.003-05:00

Here is a hilarious (and scary) video of Obama making fun of Rahm Emanuel after he selected him as Chief of Staff. It is a roast, in short, but brilliantly composed. We can't make fun of Obama, but at least we could listen to his awesome jokes!

I wouldn't even mess with Rahm, but you know, Obama is the boss now. (I love saying that)

A Victory That's Going Down In History

2008-11-05T20:38:00.003-05:00

Last night must have been the happiest in my short life. I became the proudest I have ever been of America, and nothing could have changed that. At around 11:18 PM exactly, I remember hearing the screams four floors down. I told my friend to change the channel from Comedy Central and there was the number "284" flashing on the screen. A woman was crouched and crying on camera. I screamed. We all screamed. We fucking won.

I remember one of my friends putting his hands up in the air, and then he clamped them around his mouth and all I could see were tears coming from his eyes. It was powerful, but what was more powerful was seeing someone I looked up to cry in happiness. I followed her soon after, shedding all the feelings this election stuffed into me. It was finally over and we fucking won.

We left to go downstairs, and they went to do shots. I went back up to watch McCain announce his defeat, going down gracefully. Waiting for Obama to come on, I was called to go to Union Square. We ran out, singing the soccer chant (Olé, Olé) on the way to Union Square, where we jumped and screamed "Yes we can!" Fifteen minutes later we were in a bar watching Obama speak to us for the first time since he was elected. Tears rolled down my cheeks silently as I tried to contain my excitement.

When all 14 of us left (not forgetting to pull our tips back from the rude Irish bartender that talked while Obama did, while cursing him), we walked down 3rd and then 2nd Avenue as a pack, screaming, giving high fives and hugs. We defined the American dream. We made history. I am finally proud of this country. We can breathe again. We can breathe again.

Kicked off? You betcha!

2008-11-02T12:29:00.004-05:00

I recently learned that the Obama campaign has taken away the reserved seats for journalists from the NY Post, Washington Times, and the Dallas Morning News on his plane because they all endorsed the Maverick. I don't know about the other two papers, but the Washington Times responded to his choice:

"This feels like the journalistic equivalent of redistributing the wealth. We spent hundreds of thousands of dollars covering Senator Obama's campaign, traveling on his plane, and taking our turn in the reporters' pool, only to have our seat given away to someone else in the last days of the campaign," said Washington Times Executive Editor John Solomon.

Unfair as it may seem, the move was smart. Why would you want someone that doesn't support you around? Though the editorial board seems to cite its political differences with the news board in the Washington Times, it shouldn't matter that they were kicked off Obama's plane if they don't want him to be president. It was only the right thing to do, because it was getting rid of potential trouble.

McCain may let New York Times on his plane, but that's because they're one of the biggest papers in the United States. If this move seems "immature" on Obama's part, then I wonder what most of McCain's actions are labeled. I urge Solomon to stop whining and accept the rejection. The biggest lesson every journalist has to learn is how to take rejection, and he's not doing such a good job at it.

I like you...

2008-10-24T07:26:00.003-04:00

Another image of pure heart, and some sweetness in an odd way:

Recession Website 1 + Chalk Drawings

2008-10-22T00:33:00.002-04:00

I don't know whether to laugh or cry about this.

But I know this makes me smile:

Capture the Flag in Toronto

2008-10-19T23:14:00.000-04:00

All types of awesomeness.

NY Times: More Upfront about Race?

2008-10-19T14:06:00.005-04:00

Lately, I've been noticing the New York Times getting more and more upfront about race. Of course, the election has a lot of influence in that, but shouldn't the publication worry about how other people will take them? Especially the people, in particular the Republicans that claim The Times is Democratically biased.

For example, take the cover of this week's Times Magazine.

"Those" white guys? That's almost as bad as McCain referring to Obama as "That one!" I know you could do better than that.

Another example is from October 14th's article about racial identity:

“I’ve always been against the blacks,” said Mr. Rowell, who is in his 70s, recalling how he was arrested for throwing firecrackers in the black section of town. But now that he has three biracial grandchildren — “it was really rough on me” — he said he had “found out they were human beings, too.”

What about the other article on October 14th about the youthful "colorblind" generation:

At the University of Cincinnati, Anthony Galarza, a graduate student in urban planning, said he had heard off-color jokes about an Obama presidency that suggested the White House would become “more ghetto” with “barbecues on the front lawn.”

And last but not least, there is that OTHER October 14th article about the rural Nevada voters:

“I don’t want to sound like I’m prejudiced,” Ms. Mendive said. “I’ve never been around a lot of black people before. I just worry that they’re nice to your face but then when they get around their own people you just have to worry about what they’re going to do to you.”

But what Cathy Vance (an Obama supporter) said about Obama's views being more "white than black" because he was raised by a white mother was even more outrageous. Ugh.

Despite what my attitude may have seemed like before, The New York Times is doing something daring. They're no longer walking on egg shells but they are inching toward the thin ice more and more. They're confronting an issue that people are too afraid to talk about, because ignorance is bliss. America has racist people. People that do not like black people. It has neo-Nazis. It has all the weird, crazy shit you could think of. I think the Times is breaking that barrier and they're telling the stories people are too afraid to cover.

Simpson's Episode Comes True?

2008-10-12T02:33:00.004-04:00

So there's a leak in a chemical plant in Pennsylvania, and there seems to be a fume cloud arising from the plant that stretches two miles. More than 2,000 people were evacuated from their homes so they wouldn't be harmed by Oleum, or fuming sulfuric acid. Apparently, those who were just outside the two-mile radius or those who opted to stay home were instructed to "shut their windows and doors to make sure the acid cloud was not entering their home."

Hmm...reminds me of that Simpson's episode where that "mysterious fog" turned people inside out seeped into the Simpson's home and they started singing One from A Chorus Line. I guess Matt Groening can predict the future, but let's see when we make it into a three-dimensional world...oh wait, too late!

I would get you a clip of the Simpson's episode, but it would have to be the WHOLE episode, so I don't think any of you want that. If you wish to check it out though, the episode is "Treehouse of Horror V."

Camping in Undercliff, New Jersey

2008-10-09T01:09:00.011-04:00

This past weekend, I went rowing and sailing Northward in the Hudson River with Rob Buchanan and 10 others. An adventurous man and college boy at heart, our fearless leader brought us upstream to Undercliff, New Jersey. Halfway up, we mounted our masts and sailed the rest of the way from a mischievously docked spot in front of the 125th Street Fairway.

Once landing upon the beaches of Undercliff, we feasted on various cheeses and snacks before a good swim and setting up our tents. Hours later, we cracked open our heart-warming drinks over an open fire surrounded by logs and sand, our laughs echoing into the endless Hudson Valley.

Early the next morning, four hours later to be exact, rain pounded on the tops of our tents. I, with no tent-mate, froze from the lack of body heat. At 7 AM our crews shoved off from the beach, unsticking our boats from the swampy waters and filled our sails with the south wind. Just as we crossed under the George Washington Bridge, the rain stopped and Nadia and I (the only ones not rowing in our boat) shivered from the weather, desperately cleaning our camera lenses for unforgettable photos. By 10:00 AM, our crews sailed into the basin of Pier 40 and gave the boats a thorough rubdown from the sand and mud. Was this trip worth it? I think so, but I will be better bundled next time.

My best photo from the trip:

Compliments to Rob Buchanan for the second image of the boats on the beach in the daylight.

Oh Blogger

2008-10-09T01:08:00.000-04:00

Dearest Blogger,

I have not forgotten about you, I have just been busy. My next update in a few minutes/hours or so.

Love,
Me

Interesting Artist Show at Coney Island

2008-08-06T10:52:00.000-04:00

Would you go see a waterboarding demonstration at Coney Island?

In my personal opinion, the thrill ride would be even more thrilling if the demonstration was done on those who paid to do it. Then we would feel the prisoner's pain...

Randy Pausch

2008-07-28T14:49:00.000-04:00

Randy Pausch, an inspiring professor of Carnegie Mellon University and known for his "Last Lecture" died on Friday July 25th, 2008. I found out about him through my mother. One night I came home to find her bawling on the couch. I thought someone had died. I asked her what was wrong and she told me to watch the Oprah show she just recorded. I'm not such a big fan of Oprah but I admit she does have some inspirational episodes here or there.

Check out Pausch's last lecture that invokes me to change every time I see it.

Rest in Peace.

Tuna De Caminos

2008-07-28T00:49:00.000-04:00

Okay so I lied about the later posts on Montenegro, but they will go up in due time once I get my shit together.

In other news I encountered something pretty interesting on my block today. I was taking a walk after the brisk rain and I saw men down the street with some weird uniforms. My mother pointed and half-screamed "its Hogwarts!"As we neared them (they were in our direct path, honestly, and I would have checked them out anyway) I noticed it was a Tuna band singing old-fashioned Spanish love songs. Not to mention they were in traditional dress (with festive, international patches on their cloaks). It became clear to the crowd surrounding them that they were serenading a woman in her window. In between songs, the group would stop and the leader would speak to her. I took Spanish in high school, but I had no idea what they were saying.

After the police came and ruined their performance (the crowd sighed), they were walking off. I caught up to them and spoke to a man named Guillermo. They originally came from Madrid and were staying at Broadway Hostel (exactly where they were serenading the woman). The band was on a small tour, doing shows for groups of people that requested them in New York City. Apparently one of the band members named Javier met the girl at a restaurant the previous night and found out they were staying in the same place. She asked him of his profession and he told her she would find out the next day. I'm sure she did, and I'm sure she found out he liked her quite a bit.
This convinced me to look up the information about Tunas and here is a short history about them...Tunas are believed to have descended from Goliards (usually a clergy of people that wrote bibulous, satirical poems in the 12th to 13th centuries), medieval troubadours and minstrels. In short, they were street performers. Now, the traditional Tuna is recognized in Spanish universities all over, and the performance is still honored.

Here are some more pictures from today (I only got Javier from the back, who was very attractive). Video posts coming soon.

Looking up and serenading...

Mi Hiatus Es Fin

2008-07-09T11:40:00.000-04:00

I just came back from Montenegro on Sunday, which was quite an experience. Seeing all of my family after seven years is emotional but after three weeks, I was tired of it and glad to be home. "Why school? Marry her off! She will be too old to be married when she's done with school!" My first mistake was mentioning grad school. The country itself has evolved but its still a boring, bland place. It is very redundant because there is nothing better to do than sit at a street cafe, drinking coffee and/or alcohol (which is preferred because at least things become more interesting) and talk to people. But how long can you spend doing that?

I did, however, meet some interesting people out there. When I was in the beach town of Budva, I met a man named Stefan who worked at the construction site across the street from me. He has a wife and four kids who he has to support with his job. His wife works too, but it is hard to properly provide for a family there. He works 12 hours a day with a profit of about 15 to 20 euros (for the day). His wife, Nevza, also works 12 hours and her pay is 8 to 10 euros. In addition to the poorly paying jobs, Stefan said, they had to work at sending their children to school, feeding them, paying utility bills and rent. During the summer months of July and August construction is stopped because it is too hot to work and the government doesn't want to scare the tourists away. Stefan said he had to get a job in boating because it was the best thing to do in the summer months. He would rent a boat for about 300 euros a month and use it to taxi people to other famous tourist spots such as Sveti Stefan ("which I like to think it was named after me"), Havaii (a medium-sized, private beach island), and other beaches around the harbor area.

Stefan told me he had to establish a fund from his incomes (his wife contributes) for this boat, because he has the permission to charge people as much as he wants. "The government isn't stern about taxes here," he said. "That's why cafe's can charge so much without giving the government a dime more than they have to." His rates depend on distance and gas. To go to a place like Sveti Stefan, he would charge ten euros a person, "depending on how much money I think they have." He said he charges a lot less than other boaters, which makes him popular among the tourists. Stefan was right too; some men charge about 20 euros per person to go to Sveti Stefan and they don't care to change their rates for whoever they see. "Sometimes I get lucky and people have no other way to get Bar (another beach town down the coastline*) but to go by boat. Again, depending on how they look, I charge them from 30 euros and up. One guy offered me 200 euros and I had no choice but to take it." When asked if he would go to America someday, he said, "If the cost of living there is cheaper, I will definitely go. But I bet you can't get food like we have here."

The cost of living is ridiculous. At the supermarket, a loaf of bread was about 2 euros, and I wasn't staying in the fanciest part of the town. If Stefan's family has to pay prices like that, I imagine how bad it must be for the poor. The country went from Deutsche marks to euros which did a lot for rich people but not much for those living in poverty. The conversions are out of control: what used to be one mark is now one euro...or more.

Stefan and Sveti Stefan

When asked about the boating activity, he confirmed what I knew. "Life on the water is very chauvinistic here," Stefan said. "Women and boats should not go together according to fellow boaters and when a woman is seen operating one, she will get a lot of trouble when she gets to shore." That explained why my uncle did not let me help him on his sail boat, or let him know the dangers of certain parts of the shore. He couldn't say I didn't tell him he was too close to the rocks, which put a staggering hole in the hull as he was pulling into a part of Budva.

~~~

Over the course of this week, I will update my blog with some stories from Montenegro, in addition to interesting tidbits I experience in America. One of the other things I would like to share is this interesting New York Times article about rowers. They have bigger hearts than most people, due to the amount of physical activity. I don't know if my heart is like that, but I think it will be soon if I continue the activity.

*Fun Fact: Bari is a city in Italy directly across the Adriatic Sea from Bar

"A Wolf at the Table"

2008-06-02T01:01:00.000-04:00

Today I just finished reading "A Wolf at the Table" by Augusten Burroughs and I don't think I have ever been as emotionally moved by a book like I was while reading this one. It is a memoir of Burroughs' childhood (with some snapshots of his adulthood) experiences with his father, who is a psychopath.

The book is compiled of short pieces divided into chapters. Each chapter tells a detailed story of Burroughs' father: a two-faced drunkard who liked to play "games." These were dangerous games that almost killed members of his family; games made to intentionally hurt them, mentally and/or physically. For Burroughs, this book is the complete opposite of his other works (he is the author of "Running with Scissors"). It is dark, and at some points terrifying for readers that understand what Burroughs was going through.

One of the stories was about young Augusten trying to figure out why his father was so aloof. He described the way he climbed into his father's lap and tried to play games with him and his father pushed him away, claiming he was busy. In other stories, he described the way his father put up a facade for people outside of the family but those who really knew him knew what he was like. These elements awakened thoughts and memories of my own father, from the past till present. He is aloof. He is two-faced. What goes on behind closed-doors is so different from what you may meet.

I stood awake for the past two nights reading the book. Now I am going to be awake an extra night, book-less, but my mind working harder than before.

More Lang on the Hudson Boat Launch Pictures (With Captions)

2008-05-16T11:47:00.001-04:00

Rob: What an amazing innovation!

Rob glowing as Hannah christens the boat with sparkling Apple Cider.

View of the Quixotic from the Storm Queen.

Both boats, side-by-side.

The crew I coxed for.

A beautiful view of Jersey City from the water.

Lang on the Hudson Boat Launch!

2008-05-14T20:02:00.000-04:00

After 8 long months of the blood, sweat, and tears, we finally finished the beautiful 26-foot, 500 lb, blue, medium blue, and shaws yellow Whitehall Gig. The class, Lang on the Hudson, was led by almost master boatman Rob Buchanan (meaning he will be one soon!). Last night, Hannah and I painted the name, Storm Queen, on the wine-glass transom which was the finishing touch to this beautiful gig. By 9:30 the Storm Queen left her home at 65 5th Avenue and was led to the Village Community Boathouse at Pier 40-her new home. On the way, she made stops at Eugene Lang College (65 West 11th St), the First Presbyterian Churchyard (5th Ave and 12th St), and Two Boots pizza. Finally, we touched down at Pier 40 by 11:45 or so and ate our pizza (and burek). Fifteen minutes after noon, the Storm Queen was ready to be christened (with little third graders screaming in the background about being on the news and having some "champagne") and lowered into the Hudson. Among the first rowers were Sean, Liz, Sarah, Karl, and I. Today was the first day of the smooth-riding Storm Queen, but many adventures are scheduled for the near future!

The Storm Queen was donated to the Village Community Boathouse which sponsors free rowing (Whitehall gigs only) around the Hudson all throughout the summer. Be sure to give it a try, once you start you can't stop!

Best NYC Coffeeshops to Write In

2008-04-28T01:23:00.000-04:00

I've lived in New York City for a fairly long time, and I think it's time I divulge some of my NYC secrets to you. However, I urge you to be courteous and slip these names to those you trust not to tell everyone and their mother. I know not many people read this blog, which is why I feel okay to post this.

1. Grounded on 28 Jane St (Between 4th Street and Greenwich Avenue)

For me, this place has it all. Good coffee, good espresso drinks, good tea, and free wifi. How much better could this get? The atmosphere. Sometimes, this place might get too crowded, and if you're impatient, this might not be too good for you. It might not be worth the wait sometimes because you won't be the luckiest if your laptop is not good without outlet power. Other than that, the ceiling fans keep you cool in this warehouse-like atmosphere during the summer, and the place is always warm during the winter, even though the door is always open (and its a BIG door). My favorite place is the couch under the skylight on a nice day. This place is sort of a secret to me because it's not smack in your face when you walk down Jane St. You kind of have to look around before you find this gem.

2. The Bean Coffee and Tea on 49 1/2 1st Ave or on 446 6th Avenue

I've written some of my best bullshit papers in here, and will continue to do so with my two dollar large coffee in hand (take that Starbucks!). The teas are amazing, and the location on 1st Avenue has gelato if anyone is feeling Italian. The music is great, and both locations can suit your atmospheric interests in case you like it dark (6th Avenue location with a pretty dark back part) or light (1st Avenue location with big windows). I haven't frequented the 1st Avenue location as much, but I know the 6th Avenue Bean has board games and a huge comfortable couch. And their deserts, though big at times, are delicious (be sure to split it with a friend if you don't want to feel too guilty). And if you're there long enough, the staff might cut you a break and bring you a refill on the house.

3. Newsbar on 107 University Place (between 12th and 13th)

Good music, good food (half price after 7), wifi (yes, you have to pay for this one), excellent coffee and tea. I like the darkness of the place sometimes, because writers are gloomy people (I said it!!). I love, love, love the coffee, but have not been there enough (once) to stay.

4. Hungarian Pastry Shop on 110 and Amsterdam Avenue

This place is DELICIOUS. The pastries are lovely, and the coffee/cappucinos are as well. The best part about this place is being able to sit outside on a nice day across the street from a beautiful church garden and silently write away on a paper (REAL PAPER). This can be perfect for breakfast date (if you didn't mess up the outcome of one like I did) or to be alone and pondering while staring at a clear blue sky. I wouldn't recommend the inside as much because it gets crowded and loud.

That is all for now, there are more to come, but in my zombie state I can't think of anymore. Good luck writers!

Wednesday Night Writer's Block

2008-04-17T00:58:00.000-04:00

Note: You thought the last entry was personal? This one goes deeper into my soul, read on if you dare.

I'm sitting here writing a research proposal for my class tomorrow morning at 10 AM which I have to wake up at 8 for. It's 1:02 AM as I write this entry. I have three pages to go, and I only have two and a half written down. It is supposed to be a 5-page paper. I get stuck with the ultimate downer: writer's block. I pause. I panic silently. What's my remedy? A cigarette.

The smoke from the cigarette will not help me clear my mind but it reminds me that I might be able to fight the block in some way. I could always picture a famous writer at their desk thinking with a cigarette wedged in between their long fingers (Kerouac, Vonnegut, Wilde etc.) and that cigarette holds the power of their creativity. I, of course, do not need much creativity for a paper jam-packed with information but something is taking me away from my writing. And then it occurred to me over the past 45 minutes it took me to get to this point. I fucked up somewhere along the way.

This entry could be interpreted into mindless banter or it can be something for me to look back at and laugh at. I hope it's the latter.

Before I write any more than necessary, I'm going to post a lyric (courtesy of Amy Winehouse) and say good night.

Run out to meet your chips and pita
You say "When we're married" 'cause you're not bitter
There'll be none of him no more
I cried for you on the kitchen floor

I cheated myself
Like I knew I would
I told ya, I was trouble
You know that I'm no good

Thanks for reading. Good night.

Personal Update + Boycotting Beijing

2008-04-12T14:54:00.000-04:00

I've had a crazy week, considering all that's going on at home and school. I've tried to focus on my work but I'm slowly losing interest. Perhaps it's because it is the end of the semester. I need a long, directed (i.e. something to do) break. Since I'm not feeling as passionate, here is the Free Press Op-Ed I promised.

"The Olympics should be about the athletes and not necessarily about politics," President George Bush said to the Associated Press on March 20, adding that he is attending the opening ceremony in Beijing. On March 31, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi urged Bush to boycott the ceremony to protest China's continuing human rights records. Bush has not voiced a response to Pelosi's suggestion. The Olympics are about politics. Otherwise, there wouldn't be a committee to choose where they take place. Are the Olympic games all about sports? Not necessarily. Olympic ceremonies of the past have proven otherwise, like during the 1972 Olympic games in Munich when 11 Israelis were taken hostage and killed by members of Black September, a Palestinian terrorist group with ties to Yasser Arafat's Fatah consortium. Another was at the 1980 Moscow Olympics where 62 countries boycotted the games entirely (some due to economic reasons) to protest Russia's 1979 invasion of Afghanistan.

In China's case, the steps the government is taking to protect its image—such as denying foreign journalists access to Tibet, increasing security measures in an attempt to prevent the Tibetan riots from spreading to China, and censoring websites—also proves there is a political motivation beneath the surface. These measures have nothing to do with sports at all, apart from the homes demolished to build the Beijing National Stadium, which is inhumane. Countries are making an effort to protest against the games in China, which starts in August. On April 6, the torch went through London where two people attempted to put out the flame with a fire extinguisher according to the BBC. However, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown will not boycott any part of the Olympics, as London is the next host in 2012.

The next day, the torch toured in Paris and was met by a myriad of protesters. Several news sources claim the torch was distinguished up to four times by authorities to protect the runner from surrounding crowds. French President Nicolas Sarkozy is strongly considering boycotting the Olympic opening ceremony unless China stops its crackdown on Tibet, according to the *International Herald Tribune*.

Three days later, the torch made a stop in San Francisco. Protesters and supporters gathered along the route at dawn but the runner disappeared into a warehouse as soon as the torch was lit. The torch reappeared more than two miles away from the warehouse due to a last minute route change for safety. The protests were made in effort to stop the conflict in Tibet and to go against China's support of Sudan despite the ongoing genocide in Darfur. Countries are not yet considering boycotting the games entirely by pulling their athletes out this year. China was chosen as the Olympic host in 2001. The International Olympic Committee had seven years to fix their decision and did not reconsider. A great event like the Olympics should not be held in China, especially for the safety of the athletes, the Tibetan and Sudanese citizens. How many deaths and mistakes will it take before we can properly book a sports event?

This Op-Ed appears in the April 19th issue of The New School Free Press.
Illustration by Sam Denlinger.

Successful Protest in France

2008-04-07T08:53:00.000-04:00

Filed less than an hour ago, The New York Times reported that the protest in Paris against the Olympic torch coming through, was pretty much a success. No one got a chance to knock down the person carrying the torch, but some got through barriers of security and their efforts were phenomenal. Courtesy of the Times, here is a photo of protesters waving Tibetan flags in protest:
In my opinion, the photo is beautiful.

Yesterday, another protest took place in London which was also a success. Some people successfully grabbed the torch but they were not able to hold it on their own. Two other people tried to put out the torch with a fire extinguisher but were tackled by police before they were able to do so. Meanwhile the Olympic torch spokesperson, Qu Yingpu, had the nerve tell BBC, "This is not the right time, the right platform, for any people to voice their political views."

Coming from a member of the Chinese government, censorship is all too familiar to Yingpu. According to the videos that you can watch near the article, the citizens of China are left in the dark about these protests. Most likely because their internet service has periodic shut down times. But this is definitely the right time for people to voice their political views, especially when thousands of "violent" protesters are being killed in Tibet because of China. It's now or never.

Stay tuned for an op-ed set to appear in the New School Free Press, which will be posted here.

NaNoWriMo

2008-04-06T16:18:00.001-04:00

Do you own a book full of plots that could make you into the next JK Rowling? Do you have tons of ideas that you could never write because of time restraints? Have you been finding another, more productive way to procrastinate during finals, midterms, whathaveyou? Well, be happy I told you now because you have until November to smooth out your ideas and write a novel in a month. November is National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)! If you ever wondered why you couldn't get a seat in your favorite coffee shop, especially in November where people have set up their laptops and seem to be typing away madly, this is probably why.

The goal is to write a 50,000 word novel (thats about 1,666 words per day) by midnight of November 30th. Do not pause for your mistakes, its basically following a 1,666 word directed free write everyday. If you go over the daily limit, fine, but write. If you really want to be known for your writing, and feel like you're doing something rewarding, sign up at the NaNoWriMo website.

Just in case you're skeptical about this: Water for Elephants (a bestseller!) by Sara Gruen was written for NaNoWriMo. Give it a try and see what you could accomplish!

Static

2008-04-02T02:04:00.000-04:00

I feel like my eyes are going to explode in their sockets.

Two men from Hawaii are going to save the world

2008-03-31T12:45:00.001-04:00

In Geneva, Switzerland, a giant Hadron Collider (also known as a particle accelerator, the beauty to your right) is being built in the CERN laboratory. The circumference of this massive structure is 27 kilometers (17 miles) and the purpose of the collider is to make tiny particles accelerate (particularly lead particles) within the circle and hopefully at one point make them collide. This collision will thus create a minuscule black hole. Walter L. Wagner and Luis Sancho believe this black hole will grow and absorb everything--including the Earth and the entire Universe, so they filed a lawsuit against CERN.

I was in my Quantum Mechanics class this morning with the amazing Dr. David Morgan and his opinion on it is quite similar to the scientists' in CERN: "The probability that this black hole will form and overtake the Earth and everything else--and scientists like to talk in probabilities because anything is possible--is 0. Or, ten to the 36th power that it won't." In my opinion, Dr. Morgan could work at CERN.

Supposedly, we will become what is pictured on the left. This lawsuit is ridiculous. Sancho and Wagner believe they can save the world when hundreds of thousands cosmic rays (doesn't that sound scary?) go through the Earth daily. We are unharmed from these rays because of our atmosphere. According to the New York Times article, if one of these rays rips through the Hadron Collider at the exact moment a baby black hole is formed, havoc can ensue. Otherwise, we will be fine. In addition to that, why are these men attacking a multi-country funded organization and Switzerland, possibly the most neutral nation in the six operating continents? What will they get out of it? Nothing really.

My only problem is that I'm worried about Wagner and Sancho (they sound like a superhero/sidekick group, right?). They want to be the heroes that stop evil Science from conquering the world and the universe, but they obviously do not hear about people dying from poverty or hunger, which is why I'm going to post the great beginning to Dennis Overbye's NY Times article about this situation: "More fighting in Iraq. Somalia in chaos. People in this country can’t afford their mortgages and in some places now they can’t even afford rice." And all these dudes care about is the Earth being consumed into some damn hole. Who knows? Things might be better on the other side...

Photo of Hadron Collider courtesy of the New York Times.
Photo of the Black Hole courtesy of user "Hazel" from WordPress.

5 Years, 10 Days and 4,007 Deaths Later...

2008-03-29T22:39:00.000-04:00

Today (or yesterday, but it feels like today) was the anniversary of the war in Iraq. Five years ago today, our disgraced "President" George W. Bush sent American troops to war, and just 1 month and 11 days after that (May 1st), he stood on USS Abraham Lincoln addressing the nation with a "Mission Accomplished" sign behind him. Bullshit.

What was accomplished? The 3,990 US soldiers killed in Iraq (as of yesterday)? Or the 82,249 – 89,760 DOCUMENTED deaths of Iraqi civilians (think of the amount if we estimated the undocumented deaths and added it to these)? The torture committed in Abu Grahib Prison or Guantanamo Bay? Bush claims he is "spreading Democracy" but if Iraq is now a "democratic" country, what are we fighting? We can not fight terrorism. It will ALWAYS be there. The citizens of the world that support this war need to see that the United States is not a heroic country and can not fight evil. Besides, the torturous acts Americans are committing against their prisoners IS terrorism. I guess we must be some hypocrites, eh?

Yesterday, I attended SPEAK UP! a benefit concert for Peace in Iraq and Justice at Home. Sure, I enjoyed the music, but I also learned something with the audience. Back in November, the coverage of the Iraq war was down to 28% in the news. Now it's down to 3%. Last month, I heard Heath Ledger's name daily. He died, but how many Iraqi civilians died the same day he did? How many people died of hunger and disease in third world countries that day? More than the single white man that starred in a movie or 20. He was a source of entertainment but these are PEOPLE I am talking about. One person makes the world turn?

This is a critical time in our lives, everyone. This is one of the biggest elections in America's history that could determine whether we stay in a MEANINGLESS war or if we get our troops out of Iraq and stop killing innocents and our troops. Vote for someone that will not keep us in for another 100 years (McCain said he would keep the troops in for another 100 years...do you want him as president??). Vote for someone that recognizes the meaning of human rights and understands this war is important and wrong. I don't know if you notice this by the way, but none of the presidential candidates spoke extensively about their plan for Iraq and that's a little scary. So do us all a favor: ENCOURAGE THEM. Hopefully this can get to someone that has some kind of access to these important candidates to knock some sense into them.

I could go on all night about this, but unfortunately I need to sleep soon. So last but not least, abolish apathy. To all of you that say they don't care about politics because "politicians are all snakes" or something in that category: fuck you. Ever heard of the lesser evil? You're one of the reasons this idiot was put into office. This is why the news is structured like in a way where reporters can say something like, "in other news, there's a war going on somewhere." Please, stop sitting around and say something. Do something. Your opinion makes a difference. Spread the word.

Edit:
Four days ago, the death toll of American soldiers in Iraq hit 4,000. Today it is now at 4,007 according to Anti-War. 4,000 and who is safe from terrorism? No one. It is still around. But it's not taking 4,000 lives to know that (or the additional 7). No, our "President" keeps living his life and knowing that one day, we will get all the oil and be a rich, happy country. Despite the fact that the American dollar is not what it used to be. Or that Wall St. companies (e.g. Bear Sterns) are failing. Nope. Oil will save us. We will be just like the Princes that are building up Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.

...Anyone who believes in that fantasy is as idiotic as the next "patriot" that supports Bush. This war has gone far into the middle of nowhere. There is no path this battle has taken. Sure, we may have overthrown Saddam. But we didn't find any weapons and the only reason why Iraq is vulnerable against Iran is because we overthrew their government and army in the first place, and did not allow them to become a "democratic" country until 2005. From the time Hussein was overthrown until about June 28th, 2004, Iraq did not have a president but a "Coalition Provisional Authority" which was established by American, British, and other countries that were in Iraq (as you should know, many pulled out) at the time. Then they had an interim President named Ghazi Mashal Ajil al-Yawer and then the President now, Jalal Talabani. I wonder how many people knew this in the first place?

Now that coalition was headed by retired General for the U.S. Army, Jay Garner. The coalition was established January 20th, 2003. Gurner was replaced on May 11th, 2003 by Paul Bremer, a Managing Director for the company Kissinger and Associates. Taken from Wikipedia: It has been suggested that Garner was moved aside because he did not agree with the White House about who should decide how to reconstruct Iraq. He wanted early elections - 90 days after the fall of Baghdad, and the new government to decide how to run the country and what to do with their assets. Garner said "I don't think [Iraqis] need to go by the U.S. plan, I think that what we need to do is set an Iraqi government that represents the freely elected will of the people. It's their country… their oil."* Their oil. He knew it was coming. Did the patriots? Nope. They still refuse to believe it's true. This source that quote came from also spoke about "The Plan" which was supposedly getting Iraq back on its feet. We'll just tweak some copyright laws and tax laws and we can call that country's oil ours? I'm pretty sure this is not known either...

Now Paul Bremer was poorly qualified in the people's opinion. On top of that, he disbanded the Iraqi army (oh really? We did do that...) and "dissolved" (his words) 400,000 soldiers. Dissolved? He's a wizard! Other things Bremer did wrong: granted foreign contractors immunity from Iraqi law (Blackwater anyone?), violated the Hague Regulations of 1907 when he changed the economic policies of Iraq, made $9 billion in funds for Iraq disappear (there's that wizardry again!), and failed to employ internal auditors/accountants for the money being spent Iraq. Some magic in that, eh?

So, I think I've made my point tonight. My rant is over. I will step off my soapbox, but I hope these words and arguments make a difference. The Administration running America right now is composed of a bunch of war criminals. If we signed to be in the ICC, our prison population would be much lower and our President would be long gone in the prison sentence he deserved a long time ago. Bremer would be locked away too, as would Cheney and McCain. Again, I urge you to speak up, say something, SCREAM in protest if you want. Just do something and stop ignoring it and pretending you care.

Sources:
-http://www.iraqbodycount.org/
-http://www.unitedforpeace.org/
-http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2008/03/24/080324fa_fact_gourevitch (A VERY detailed story about Abu Grahib prisoners)
-http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/20/world/middleeast/20prexy.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin (Bullshit Bush's plans)
-*On Jay Garner

(Note: This was written on March 20th, 2008 for a Facebook note. The edited part was added today.)

Kosovo on the Verge

2008-03-29T22:38:00.000-04:00

On February 17, Kosovo declared independence from Serbia for the second time in eighteen years. In protest, a group of Serbians set fire to the U.S. and Croatian embassies in Belgrade, Serbia’s capital.

If Kosovo’s independence is internationally recognized now, this recent outburst of violence will explode into an all-out war.

I grew up during the first Kosovo War. I know what the tensions between Serbians and Albanian-Kosovars can result in. And the tension between these two groups now is eerily similar to that which developed during the early 1990s, before the war broke out.

What makes this bid for independence more serious than the last one is the number of countries willing to recognize Kosovo. In 1990, only Albania did. This time, nine countries—including the United States, the UK and France—have already acknowledged Kosovo as an independent country. But Serbia, with the backing of Russia, is willing to fight to keep Kosovo a part of Serbia.

The last time Serbia fought to keep Kosovo, it resulted in an Albanian genocide.

After Kosovo declared their independence in 1990, former Serbian president Slobodan Milosevic changed the constitution and turned Kosovo, which was sixty percent Albanian at the time, into a police state.

Following six years of violent protest, guerrilla groups like the Kosovo Liberation Army rose up and rebelled against the Serbian police forces.

In response, the Serbs began a campaign of ethnic cleansing. The Albanian death toll was about 10,000. Five thousand Serbians were killed. Hundreds of thousands of refugees fled the region. In 1999, NATO intervened and began air strikes against Serbian military targets, which resulted in the retreat of the Serbian army. Milosevic was arrested, charged with war crimes and was held in The Hague until his death last year.

Kosovo should not be an independent country. The tension that already exists between the Serbians, who comprise about ten percent of the population, and the Albanians, who make up the rest, will only increase. The two peoples are fighting about who was there first, and this is the type of unresolvable conflict that may well result in another genocide. Is an independent Kosovo worth the thousands of lives that will be lost?

This article was published in the tenth issue of The New School Free Press in 2008. Image taken from Flickr.com.

Introductory Post

2008-03-29T22:34:00.000-04:00

So I read Peter's Blog and he gave me the idea to revise my blog, as well as include my New School Free Press articles that I believe are of importance. I have used this blog for silly things in the past, and its the reason why I stopped writing in it. It was boring, crappy, and didn't have anything of much interest. But if I want to be a writer, I should start somewhere. So I am going to start with a couple of posts and off I go!