The Albanian-American community came together to celebrates the 8th anniversary of the Independence of Kosova at Maestro’s Catering on Saturday, February 20. The event was hosted by Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj and the Consulate General of the Republic of Kosova, with a large group of Albanian American organizations providing sponsorships.

Members of the Albanian American Open Hand Society: (l-r) Taulano Smakaj, Esad Rizai, Aleksander Nilaj, president, Valmend Marky, Tony Musaj, Zef Palushi and Frane Marky.
Photo by Silvio Pacifico

Members of Atsambli Bashkin Kombetar (l-r) Luz Thaqi, Gjergj Deduukaj, Amir Asadi, Mustaf Qosja and Brahim Sinankj.
Photo by Silvio Pacifico

(l-r) Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj; city Comptroller Scott Stringer and Aleksander Nilaj, Albanian American Open Hand Society president.
Photo by Silvio Pacifico

Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj and members of supporting organizations and sponsors holding their citations from the New York State Assembly.
Photo by Silvio Pacifico

Ylber Kryeziu, Kosovo Diplomatic Attache, speaking during the celebration.
Photo by Silvio Pacifico