TURKNETWORK MAGAZINE / MARCH 2024

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW:

COMMUNITY STAR AND WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR AYÇA

KARAYEL

AN INSPIRING AND MOTIVATIONAL WELLNESS PRESENTER ELVAN DEMIRKAN

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

TurkNetwork

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Elizabeth

Sara

David

Mary

Mehmet

Tara

Senay

Oya

Yasar Daglar

Erol

Nil Guler

Melisa

Serra

Sheilah Kaufman

Murat Kolbasi

Oguz Konar

Sibel Kulaksiz

Dilek Livaneli

Olivia Manzagol

Kivanc Oguz

Güçlü Özencİ

Suheyla Tayla

Kitty Waldorf

EMPOWERING CONNECTIONS: A MARCH TO REMEMBER WITH TURKNETWORK MAGAZINE

AAs March unfurls its petals, heralding the arrival of spring and the vibrant celebration of International Women's Day on March 8th, we at TurkNetwork Magazine are thrilled to dedicate this month's issue to themes that resonate with the spirit of empowerment and progress. This edition is not just a collection of pages but a mosaic of stories, insights, and tributes to the indomitable spirit of women around the globe.

This year, as we commemorate International Women's Day, we delve deep into the narratives that shape our understanding and appreciation of women's roles in society, business, culture, and beyond. Our unique focus on Women's Day brings forth a range of articles designed to inspire, challenge, and celebrate the achievements and aspirations of women in diverse spheres of life.

In keeping with our tradition of not just reporting but creating spaces for meaningful engagement and growth, TurkNetwork Magazine is proud to present "The International Women's Day Power Network" event. Scheduled for Sunday, March 10th, this event is a clarion call to Unleash Potential: Connecting, Collaborating, and creating. It is more than an event; it is a movement toward building your network for global success, celebrating innovation, connection, and empowerment. Open to visionaries ready to impact the world, this gathering promises to be your gateway to global opportunities, unparalleled networking, and collaborative ventures.

Embrace the spring of innovation and empowerment at our International Women's Day event–your gateway to global success and meaningful connections.

We extend a warm invitation to all to join us in this celebration. Whether you are a seasoned professional, a budding entrepreneur, or someone with a vision to make a difference, this event is for you. The event is meticulously designed to be inclusive, fostering an environment where ideas flourish, connections are made, and collaborations are born.

Do not miss this opportunity to be part of something extraordinary. Secure your spot today and be ready to bring your business cards, your ideas, and your passion for change. Join a community of forward-thinkers, innovators, and trailblazers as we embark on a journey of connection, collaboration, and creation.

Reserve Your Spot Now at https://shorturl.at/JKRZ3.

In addition to our special events, we continue to shine a light on community news, particularly spotlighting endeavors in the Turkish Business sector within the Washington, DC, area. Please reach out if you are opening a business or wish to introduce your venture to the Turkish Community. We are here to support and promote your journey.

As you turn the pages of this issue, we hope you find inspiration, insight, and joy in the stories we have gathered. Here is to a happy spring and the anticipation of seeing you at our upcoming event. Let us celebrate the power of connection, the beauty of innovation, and the endless possibilities that await when we come together to empower and uplift one another.

Warm regards,

SITKI KAZANCI

EXTENDING HIS EXCELLENCY SEDAT ÖNAL A WARM WELCOME TO WASHINGTON

Türkiye has appointed Ambassador Sedat Önal, previously the Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN), as the new ambassador to the Washington Embassy. This position became vacant following Ambassador Murat Mercan's resignation after reaching the age limit on January 12, and his subsequent retirement on January 14.

Before taking up his role in Washington, Önal served as Türkiye's Permanent Representative to the UN since February 21, 2023. His prior career included a term as Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2018 to 2023, making him one of Türkiye's three deputy foreign ministers. During this time, he navigated challenging negotiations with high-level US officials amidst a strained Türkiye-US relationship, influenced by issues in Syria, Iraq, and military sales. Önal also spearheaded the Turkish delegation in Moscow, contributing to the Astana process aimed at resolving the Syrian conflict with Russia and Iran.

Önal's extensive career in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs since 1989 includes roles such as Deputy Undersecretary for North Africa, Middle East, and South Asia Affairs (2016-2018), Director General for Bilateral Political Affairs (North Africa and Middle East) in 2016, and Ambassador to Jordan (2012-2016). His earlier assignments include Minister-Plenipotentiary and Deputy Director General for the Middle

East (2009-2012), Consul General in Vienna (2007-2009), and various positions leading up to Vice-Consul and Consul at the Consulate General in New York (1998-2002).

Önal is a graduate of Ankara University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science in 1985.

TÜRKİYE'S 5TH-GENERATION FIGHTER JET COMPLETES FIRST FLIGHT

Türkiye celebrated a significant achievement in its defense industry as KAAN, its first domestically produced fighter jet, successfully completed its inaugural flight. This event underscores Türkiye's ambition to enhance its air force capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign defense technology. Highlighted as a testament to Türkiye's progress in developing advanced military technology, despite challenges and skepticism, the project, initiated in 2016 with a collaboration between Turkish Aerospace Industries and Britain's BAE Systems, aims to secure Türkiye's position in the global defense landscape with the fifth-generation fighter jet, KAAN.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye, established on May 2, 1920, oversees the country's diplomatic missions worldwide. With 264 embassies, consulates, and missions, Türkiye boasts the fifth-largest diplomatic network globally.

By Mehmet Ali Munir

■ Türkiye's indigenously developed fifth-generation fighter jet KAAN takes off for its inaugural flight, Ankara, Türkiye, Feb. 21, 2024. (AA Photo)

LEVEL UP YOUR COFFEE, LEVEL UP YOUR LIFE!

Does your afternoon coffee leave you feeling jittery and unfocused?

It is time to switch up your routine! Autonomy blends creamers offer a delicious and healthy solution. Their unique formula provides the creamy indulgence you crave while promoting long-lasting energy and clarity.This highly-rated creamer is non-GMO, keto-friendly, plant-based, and zero-sugar, making it the perfect choice for health-conscious coffee lovers. Moreover, this guilt-free upgrade is endorsed by health experts like Dan Buettner, Dr Mark Hyman, and Simon Hill.They have 3 flavor options, and their smart latte is bound to be a Turkish community favorite since we all still miss the 2-in-1 self-served coffees back from the homeland. Please visit https://autonomyfoods.com to order your first autonomy. We just wish they had a smart Turkish coffee option that we could consume 24/7. The Turkish coffee revolution is what we need! And here’s a little gift from Patrick, creator of Autonomy for our readers: Apply the code TURK10 at checkout to get 10% off. For now, this is your sign to say goodbye to crashes and hello to improved mood and productivity with AUTONOMY!

GOLDEN CELLO, GOLDEN SPIRIT: EZGI KARAKUS, THE CELLIST WHO RADIATES KINDNES

Ezgi Karakus is a highly accomplished Turkish cellist and the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas cellist, codirector of Soundwave Academy, and an accomplished member of Ensemble Iberica. Ezgi has performed internationally with renowned orchestras, such as the Topeka Symphony, Tulsa Symphony, and Kansas City Symphony. She was also featured as a soloist at the Springfield Symphony, Topeka Symphony, and Yo-Yo Ma’s Master Class at the Kauffman Center of the Performing Arts. On May 25, 2023, she graced the stage of Carnegie Hall with her ensemble, Ensemble Iberica, for the sold-out Amazonas concert series. As TurkNetwork Magazine is incredibly

proud of her professional accomplishments and also wants to highlight her goodwill efforts in raising funds in Kansas City for the 2023 Türkiye Earthquake. On February 15, 2023, she organized a goodwill concert featuring her ensemble. The concert was live-streamed by Türkiye’s one and only digital platform, raising more than $40,000 USD in a single performance.

Please visit her website www.ezgikarakus.com for more information on how to attend her upcoming events and listen to her recordings. Thank you for your kindness, Ezgi! The Turkish Community in the US will always feel grateful for you!

HAMSI FESTIVAL: A DELIGHTFUL BLEND OF CULTURE, CUISINE, AND CHARITY

The Traditional Annual Hamsi Festival, now in its third year, garnered significant attention across Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia. The festival's proceeds were donated to Bridge To Türkiye as educational scholarships for the children of fallen soldiers. Attendees eagerly waited in line to partake in the festivities, where they

were treated to Delicious Hamsi, Turkish coffee, and Lokma desserts. Guests felt a touch of home despite the cold weather, thanks to the warm and friendly atmosphere created by the DMV residents—special thanks to the Turk DMV team and all contributors for organizing this heartwarming event.

DERIN SARAN: THE NEWEST RISING NBA STAR

We are proud to have watched Derin Saran play a calm but fierce game on the courts recently on ESPN. UC Irvine’s newest addition, Derin Saran, is creating miracles in college basketball, and we could not be happier to see a player of Türkiye origin.

Russel Turner, Men's Head Basketball Coach of the team, says: “Derin is a talented player and a great fit for the UCI Community and our team. He is exceptionally motivated and competitive, and he has an intriguing combination of size, skill, and confidence in his ability to make others better and make his teams win. Derin’s future is bright, and I am grateful to him and his family for their belief in us.”

Although Derin graduated from the Asheville School in North Carolina, he is originally from Istanbul. During his high school years, he was three-time Conference Champion (2021, 2022, 2023), was named Western North Carolina Player of the Year (2023), and was also nominated North Carolina Gatorade Player of the Year nominee (2023). He also ranked No. 4 North Carolina HS Player (2023) and averaged 19.8 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists in his senior year. In Türkiye, he played AAU for Elite 1 of 1, and also he was U19 & U20 Turkish National Player. He has three native languages: English, Turkish, and Swiss German. He is currently a business major at UC Irvine. We wish him all the best in his journey and look forward to seeing him as a professional NBA player soon!

You can follow Derin’s basketball journey via his IG @ derinmsaran Derin Saran: 6’4” | UC Irvine Anteaters Guard Hometown: Istanbul

MORE THAN A CUP: CASA ROASTS A WORLD OF EQUALITY AND FLAVOR

Casa coffee is not just a caffeine kick; it is a sip of social justice. Gabriela Arias, owner of Casa blend, was inspired by her barista mother to create this blend to brew equality and inclusion with every cup. Casa sources beans from womenowned farms and roasters, empowering communities one delicious sip at a time.

But Casa's passion goes beyond ethics. They obsess over quality, meticulous in every step from farm to mug. Each bag holds single-origin beans, hand-picked at the perfect altitude, kissed by sunshine, and nurtured in rich soil. These are not your average beans; they are certified-spectacular, scoring over 80 on a 100-point scale by discerning tasters. They are then roasted to fragrant perfection, a symphony of aromas ready to dance on your palate.

Casa is not just a coffee brand; it is a haven of warmth, a community built on shared sips and shared purpose. So join Gabriela Arias to raise a cup to equality, savor the world's finest flavors, and discover the love brewed with every bean.

A fan of Turkish Coffee might enjoy Casa Coffee as well. Made from high quality Arabica beans, you can get your Casa Coffee blended to your Turkish Coffee perfection. Purchase Casa Coffee online via www.casaspecialtycoffee.com.

TURKNETWORK MAGAZINE PRESENTS: THE I NTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY POWER NETWORK UNLEASHING POTENTIAL:

CONNECTING, COLLABORATING, CREATING

Join us for International Women's Day: Building Your Network for Global Success, a pivotal event celebrating innovation, connection, and empowerment. Open to visionaries ready to impact the world, this gathering is your entrance to global opportunities and networking.

All are welcome! This event is open to everyone.

Do not miss out on the fun–secure your spot today!

Bring your business cards and join a community of forward-thinkers.

Reserve Your Spot Now!

https://shorturl.at/JKRZ3

AVRASYA TURKISH MARKET IS NOW OPEN IN ARLINGTON

Anew a new shopping destination has recently opened in Arlington, conveniently located near the AMC movie theater exit at the Court House Metro Station. The market is renowned for its friendly customer service, with staff always assisting shoppers. Patrons can discover a wide range of Turkish products, fulfilling their needs and cravings for home. Open every day of the week, AVRASYA MARKET invites the community to visit and explore its offerings.

Location:

2200 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201

For inquiries, contact: (571) 276-0357

Everyone is welcome, and the team at AVRASYA MARKET looks forward to greeting visitors soon!

ATADC HOSTS SUNAY AKIN'S ENTHRALLING "CUMHURİYET YOLUNDA" PERFORMANCE IN WASHINGTON, DC

The American Turkish Association of Washington, DC (ATADC) recently organized an event that featured Sunay Akın's enthralling "Cumhuriyet Yolunda" performance, drawing community members together for an unforgettable evening. Following the show, attendees had the unique opportunity to engage with the author during a book signing session, where they also seized the moment for memorable photographs.

The event proudly announced that all proceeds would benefit the ATADC’s Atatürk School, contributing to the educational initiatives of the Turkish community in Washington, DC.

The ATADC extends its deepest gratitude to all attendees and volunteers who made the event successful. A special acknowledgment is reserved for Sunay Akın, whose spectacular performance captivated the audience and significantly contributed to making the evening remarkable.

RETRACTABLE

BOOKLETS/CATALOGS

BANNERS

FLYERS

FOAM BOARDS

WINDOW CLINGS

CONSCIOUS COMMERCE CORNER

THE RISE OF SUSTAINABILITYRELATED JOBS IN THE LAST FEW YEARS

Join the sustainability revolution: embrace a career that nurtures the planet, where every job is a step toward a more sustainable, equitable, and thriving world.

By Olivia Manzagol

In recent years, there has been a significant surge in the demand for sustainability jobs as people and companies worldwide recognize the importance of protecting our planet. These jobs focus on creating a balance between environmental health, social responsibility, and economic growth.

Sustainability jobs cover various fields and industries, making them accessible to people with diverse skills and interests. Are you interested in changing careers or being a newcomer? There are a lot of businesses that are hiring experienced professionals and interns with a sustainability focus.

One of the fastest-growing sectors in sustainability jobs is renewable energy. Jobs in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power have remarkably increased. As the world shifts toward cleaner energy sources, professionals in these fields are in high demand.

The construction industry has embraced sustainable practices with a focus on green building. Architects, engineers, and construction workers now collaborate to create ecofriendly structures using energy-efficient materials and designs.

Many companies are integrating sustainability into their core values. This has led to the rise of sustainability officers and managers who work to implement eco-friendly practices within businesses. These roles involve creating and overseeing sustainability strategies to reduce environmental impact.

Agriculture plays a crucial role in our lives,

and sustainable farming practices are gaining traction. Jobs in sustainable agriculture involve promoting organic farming, reducing chemical use, and adopting methods that conserve soil and water resources. Even if you decide to open your restaurant or small café, sustainable practices will go a long way.

With the growing emphasis on sustainability, companies seek advice on making their operations eco-friendlier. Environmental consultants help businesses navigate complex ecological regulations, conduct impact assessments, and develop sustainability plans.

If you are interested in sustainability jobs, consider pursuing degrees or certifications in sustainability-related fields, such as environmental science, renewable energy, or sustainable business practices, attending industry events, joining online forums, and connecting with professionals in the sustainability field. Networking can open opportunities and provide valuable insights. The rise of sustainability jobs is a positive indicator of the global shift toward a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future. As the demand for these positions continues to grow exponentially, individuals can play a vital role in positively impacting the planet while building fulfilling and meaningful careers. ■

Olivia

Manzagol is an economist, a finance specialist in energy, sustainability, and private equity, a university lecturer, a strategist, a mentor, and an author. She has been living in the US for about 25 years.

THE POWERFUL RIPPLE EFFECT OF EMPOWERING YOUNG WOMEN FUELED BY GIVING CIRCLES AT TPF

Through collective efforts and targeted support, initiatives like Giving Circles at TPF showcase the profound impact of community-driven philanthropy in empowering young women.

By Senay Ataselim-Yilmaz, PhD

In celebration of International Women's Day this month, I would like to spotlight the remarkable journey of Revşen, a testament to the transformative power of education and community support. Her story not only illuminates the path to individual achievement but also embodies the broader appeal for investing in women and girls—a call to action that resonates deeply in today's world, facing numerous crises from poverty to climate change.

Born and raised in Mardin, Revşen's aspirations knew no bounds. Despite initial challenges and familial constraints, she excelled academically, earning top grades throughout her schooling. She was the star of Mardin Fen Lisesi. However, her dream of attending Robert College seemed out of reach, as her family hesitated to send her to Istanbul for boarding school at such an early age, even though she

got 500/500 and was accepted.

Undeterred by setbacks, Revşen's determination only grew stronger. She dedicated herself to her studies and self-taught English, expanding her horizons and preparing herself for future opportunities.

Revşen's life took a pivotal turn when she crossed paths with PAYDA during their visit to Mardin. Recognizing her potential, PAYDA embraced Revşen, offering her guidance, support, and a pathway to realizing her dreams.

Selected to join PAYDA's RCIMUN (Robert College International Model United Nations) project–a conference where 500+ students from different backgrounds get together, leaving their ecosystem behind and engaging with their peers around daily discussion topics–Revşen found herself immersed in a vibrant community of peers from diverse backgrounds. Her experience with PAYDA sparked a newfound determination to pursue higher

education in the United States.

With PAYDA's guidance and financial support, Revşen's dreams became a reality as she earned a full scholarship to Brown University, becoming the first student from Mardin High School to be accepted to an Ivy League institution.

Inspired by the trailblazing achievements of women like Feryal Ozel, Revşen majored in astrophysics and graduated with distinction. Today, she works as an accelerator operator at Lawrence Berkeley Lab for the US Department of Energy’s Office of Science. She is beyond excited to be a part of expanding the frontiers of knowledge and delivering solutions for science and humankind.

Revşen's journey from a small town to an Ivy League institution and her subsequent role as a science teacher strongly illustrate how targeted support and investment in women's education and empowerment can yield extraordinary

outcomes. It echoes the urgent call highlighted in our global discussion on gender equality— underscoring the alarming $360 billion annual deficit in spending on gender equality measures and the need for immediate action to ensure women and girls are not left behind.

Revşen's journey is a testament to the transformative power of Giving Circles at Turkish Philanthropy Funds (TPF) like Türkiye’s Educated Girls/Türkiye’nin Eğitimli Kızları (TEK) Giving Circle. Established by a group of visionaries with one common goal–to empower young women in Türkiye–TEK Giving Circle has supported over 1,000 young women with scholarships since 2019. Through their collective efforts and commitment to community, TEK Giving Circle has leveraged resources from individuals to company matching gifts, rallied support, and fostered mentorship opportunities, ensuring that young women like Revşen have the support and opportunities they need to thrive.

The backdrop of Revşen's success story is set against a world grappling with many challenges, all of which disproportionately affect women and girls. This context makes the support from PAYDA and the establishment of Giving Circles like TEK Giving Circle not just acts of generosity but crucial interventions to counteract these global challenges.

PAYDA's role in Revşen's life and the collective effort of TEK Giving Circle exemplify the impactful implementation of gender-responsive support. These initiatives demonstrate how alternative economic models can be realized through focused investment in women's empowerment and education.

As we draw inspiration from Revşen's achievements and the work of organizations like PAYDA, CYDD, and community initiatives such as TEK Giving Circle, we are reminded of the powerful ripple effect that investing in women can have. It is a human rights imperative and a cornerstone for building inclusive societies where progress for women benefits all.

This International Women's Day, as we rally behind the call to "Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress," Revşen's story serves as a clear example of how targeted investments in women's education, support systems, and community engagement can address macro-level challenges with micro-level solutions. Giving Circles at TPF enables that. Together, with our generous donors, dedicated communities, and unwavering dedication to empowering young women, we stand united in our mission to

inspire positive change and uplift those in need, ensuring every young woman knows she is cherished, seen, and believed in.

Through generosity and collective action, we have the power to create a world where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality, where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive, just like Revşen. Together, we can accelerate progress toward a more equitable, prosperous, and sustainable future for all.

ABOUT GIVING CIRCLES AT TPF

Turkish Philanthropy Funds' Giving Circles offer a platform for community members to collectively pool their resources, amplifying their impact on causes they deeply care about. These circles have their own membership, organizing distinct activities and events, and collectively deciding on grant allocation. This collaborative approach magnifies their impact beyond what could be achieved individually. It fosters stronger connections between donors and the organizations they support, allowing for a more engaged and meaningful partnership.

At the heart of our philosophy is the belief in the power of community. Through Giving Circles, we leverage the collective strength of our community to address social needs more effectively, raise awareness about critical issues, and cultivate a culture of philanthropy among individuals. This model not only facilitates significant social change but also enriches the giving experience for everyone involved, demonstrating the transformative power of united action.

ESTABLISHING A GIVING CIRCLE AT TPF

● Imagine Launching a Giving Circle with TPF: Your vision is the spark! Envision the community you aspire to uplift and the impact you wish to create. Begin with your dream.

● Invite Your Tribe: Surround yourself with family, friends, and fellow visionaries. Extend your circle to include those who share your aspiration for change.

● Unite Around a Shared Passion: Collaboratively, identify the cause that ignites your collective passion. Determine the philanthropic mission that drives you. TPF is here to guide you through this journey—reach out to us!

● Showcase Your Mission: In partnership with TPF, we will craft a campaign that resonates with your vision. Together, we'll design your message and connect with others who believe in your cause.

● Amplify Your Impact: Spread the word and gather support for your Giving Circle. With TPF's assistance, leverage tools like social media, webinars, and newsletters to boost your fundraising and awareness efforts.

● Craft Your Legacy: Direct your collective contributions toward the NGOs that align with your mission, making a tangible difference both in Türkiye and the US. This is philanthropy on your terms.

● Celebrate and Inspire: Share the success and the ripple effect of your actions with an impact report crafted by TPF. Let your achievements inspire others, growing your circle and preparing for even greater impact ahead.

Begin with a dream, and with TPF by your side, transform that dream into a legacy of positive change. Join us, and together, let us make a lasting difference.

ABOUT TURKISH PHILANTHROPY FUNDS

For 16 years, TPF has served our community to channel the generosity of over 100,000 donors to disburse more than $40 million USD. As a community foundation, our intimate knowledge of community needs has fueled innovative solutions to pressing challenges. We have directly impacted over 3 million lives, offering strategic guidance to donors to maximize their philanthropic reach. TPF stands as a collaborative hub where donors, businesses, and nonprofits unite, pooling resources and expertise. Together, we have fostered resilient communities and built a lasting LEGACY of positive change that all of us are proud of. ■

www.tpfund.org

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Read TPF Earthquake Fund 6th Month Impact Report

Read TPF’s Most Recent Annual Report

Senay Ataselim-Yilmaz leads Turkish Philanthropy Funds as its Executive Director and has been instrumental since its inception. She is also a writer, lecturer, and advocate for social change. Honored as an International Herst Fellow by the Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society and a Young Society Leader by the AmericanTurkish Society, Senay frequently writes for the Huffington Post and teaches at Fordham University and the Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society. Senay has a PhD in Political Science from Graduate Center, CUNY, and business certifications from Columbia and Harvard Business Schools. Additionally, she is a trained yoga and mindfulness instructor.

COMMUNITY STAR: AYÇA KARAYEL

Our award committee selects a Community Star for each issue, recognizing individuals dedicated to helping others, actively promoting Turkish culture, and succeeding professionally.

In this issue, we have chosen Ayça Karayel.

By Oya Bain

First, we would like to thank you for generously providing your time and services, especially in times of great need. You opened your store for volunteers who collected donated clothes and items and organized and packaged them for last year's February 6 earthquake in Türkiye.

Could you let us know about the process?

Could you share the number of volunteers involved and the donations collected?

Have there been any collaborations with the Turkish Embassy in these initiatives? My dedication to fully serving my country is what drives me. The same night, I texted Ambassador Mercan about my intention to accept donations at my new location. By 7 am, the space was already brimming with boxes as more than 60 individuals assisted on various days and times. Some of the women were involved in this mission for over a month.

In addition to dispatching at least ten trucks laden with essential supplies, we raised $6,000 USD from other donations, which we promptly directed to the survivors' bank accounts. Instead of passively lamenting the news, I felt compelled to take tangible action for my homeland.

You founded the Kirmizi Mikrofon Turkish music choir. What inspired this creation?

My beloved "Kırmızı Mikrofon" (Red Microphone)! It is genuinely one of my greatest joys. This extraordinary journey of unity began with a simple question: “Will anyone be interested in singing together?” I posted on a social media platform.

Of course, throughout my life, music has been my passion. I have always cherished singing and dancing, with a repertoire of over 30 songs that I have written myself. Music is the crucial hobby that combines people.

Kirmizi Mikrofon operates as a charitable organization. Can you outline your objectives?

The Kırmızı Mikrofon (KM) offered me a rare chance to pursue my dual passions simultaneously. Uniting Turkish individuals and nurturing a sense of unity has consistently presented a significant challenge. Despite enticing opportunities in the business world, my commitment to being a business professional remained steadfast in pursuing these objectives.

What is the current choir member count?

There are 41 people in the choir now.

How can interested individuals become part of the choir?

We cultivated a community bonded by passion. However, as we evolved into an organization, the expectations placed upon us grew significantly.

Before each season, we invite aspiring members to submit recordings showcasing their talents. We then select the most exceptional voices to join our choir.

What upcoming events can we anticipate?

On May 18th, we will take the stage to perform a repertoire of Yesilcam songs, encompassing approximately 25 melodies that evoke many cherished memories for each of us.

Does the group also offer solo performances?

Indeed, within our choir, we offer opportu nities for solo performances, allowing each member to showcase their talents and bring their unique flair to the stage. Many new proj ects are on the way. ■

Shifting the focus to your personal journey and entrepreneurial endeavors:

We would love to hear about your early years. Could you share where you were born and raised? Do you have any siblings?

I am from Mersin, Türkiye, where I spent my formative years until I embarked on my journey at Bilkent University, Faculty of Fine Arts, specializing in Graphic Design, in Ankara.

My younger brother in Istanbul is pursuing a career as an interior designer. Additionally, I am blessed with cousins as close to me as sisters. Despite time and distance, my bond with childhood friends remains steadfast.

Are there other family members residing in the United States?

Yes, my daughter. I find comfort in the

companionship of my daughter, who is here by my side, providing unwavering support and love.

Relocating to the US was undoubtedly transformative. When did you move, and what motivated your decision?

This marks my fifth year residing in America. In 2006, I lived in Tampa, Florida. However, we decided to relocate back to Türkiye due to the health challenges we encountered after two years. Initially, returning to the States was off my radar. Yet in 2018, as my daughter approached elementary school and considered her US citizenship, I concluded that her educational journey would be best pursued here. Moreover, the presence of her father in Virginia naturally led me to embark on a new chapter of life in this area.

How did you start your business in the US as a successful entrepreneur?

During one of my visits to the US in 2015, I took the initiative to establish my company, JASO. After engaging in some exports from Türkiye, I applied for an investor visa. Fortunately, my E1 visa application was approved, granting me a five-year visa. This legal status

Transforming Art into Enterprise: A Turkish Entrepreneur's American Dream

provided me with the foundation to construct my life here. However, the inability to travel during the two-year extension period posed significant challenges and proved difficult to endure.

Your background in art/design in Türkiye paved the way for the establishment of a successful curtain business. Could you discuss this transition?

In 2009, I embarked on the entrepreneurial journey of establishing my Turkish advertising and promotional company. Over the years, I became the creative force behind numerous promotional product projects, collaborating with renowned commercial giants such as Coca-Cola, Henkel, Reckitt Benckiser, Shell, and Sapporo Japan.

One of my standout achievements was the conception of the Coca-Cola bottle-shaped salt and pepper holders. Crafted from iron and presented at a meeting, the executives were astonished by the ingenuity of the idea, which ultimately became a resounding success with multiple material iterations.

I also spearheaded the first social

responsibility project for Unilever-Omo detergent. I left my mark on the Anavatan Political Party by adding eyelashes on their bee logo, showcasing my creativity and penchant for innovation.

For 17 years, I held the exclusive position as the sole logo-printed product supplier for Sapporo Beer across Europe, cementing my status as a highly successful businesswoman in Türkiye. Perhaps deemed a workaholic or a bit unconventional, my passion for my craft drove me forward.

Recently, a member of my Kırmızı Mikrofon group summarized my essence perfectly: "We give you a drop of water, and you turn it into an ocean." This sentiment encapsulates my ability to magnify and amplify even the smallest ideas into something truly impactful.

Upon relocating to a new area dominated by the cabinets and home remodeling industry, I consulted for one of the major companies. This eventually led me into the world of drapery made with high-quality fabrics in Türkiye, a field where I could indulge my passion for decorating, experimenting with colors, and designing furniture. For me, it is not just about monetary gain; it is about sharing my extra thoughts and helping people feel good, creating spaces they love to be in. Newmoon Blinds is my American baby that I am raising with care.

What are your business aspirations for the next five years?

I have three brands for now to expand.

Newmoon Blinds may reach more locations and give premium service.

Kirmizi Mikrofon aims to be the most prominent Turkish Music Unity initiative nationwide.

Rubi Women Network will make female entrepreneurs’ dreams come true.

Describe a typical day for you.

I wake up early and find the early hours to be the most productive part of my day. A typical day involves business responsibilities and various other activities and duties. Usually, I am an optimistic person. I love chatting with my staff and enjoy the times we are working together.

Living in the US, what elements of your hometown do you find yourself longing for?

One aspect I deeply miss is the sense of community that permeated every corner of my hometown. In my hometown, neighbors knew each other by name, and there was a strong sense of solidarity during both celebration and hardship. Additionally, the cultural richness of my hometown is something I frequently miss. Overall, while I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that living in the US has afforded me, there are some aspects of my hometown I hold dear to my heart and find myself longing for regularly.

How do you balance the preservation of your Turkish heritage with adapting to American culture?

We grew up in a community in which people are so close to each other. We grew up sharing our meals and helping older people. We grew up showing love, hugging, kissing, and doing something to each other. As I understood from my experiences, the American friends I met agreed that America is a country of loneliness. This is a country of give-take. So, at first, I was struggling with the idea of my sincerity being questioned. People living in the US have adopted this system as well. So even if they are

from other nationalities, the system in the US takes you in, and you go with the flow. I am lucky to have good people in my life. Thank God, wherever I go, I build great friendships. Also, being open-minded to new ideas helped me very much in my adaptation process.

Since relocating to the US, can you share an enduring memory or experience?

Since relocating to the US, one enduring memory revolves around my first Thanksgiving celebration with my new friends. Coming from a different cultural background, I was curious and excited to experience this essential American holiday firsthand.

What might our readers find unexpectedly interesting about you?

As a successful business entrepreneur, my perspective is one of strategic vision and calculated risk-taking. I view the world through the lens of opportunity and innovation, constantly seeking ways to create value. While others may shy away from risks, I believe calculated risks are essential for driving meaningful progress and achieving breakthrough success.

Who has been a pivotal figure in your life, and in what way?

I grew up with strong and successful women in my family. My Aunt Zafer was my great supporter and an important role model.

We both, for example, like visiting local businesses in our neighborhood and being their first customers, even with a very small purchase early in the morning. She taught me that abondance comes to you when you give without waiting back.

Is there a particular achievement or moment that stands out as a source of pride for you?

Opening the best window treatment store in the area is my most enormous pride. I worked so hard!

Also, I am the co-founder of a women empowerment platform called “Rubi Women Network." A couple of months ago, we joined forces with another successful and hardworking woman, the Turkish Coffee Lady Gizem White. We are a Virginia-based women empowerment

initiative to unite women leaders through cuisine and cultural hospitality. The network was established in October 2023 and has provided invaluable insights, practical strategies, and networking opportunities for women passionate about launching and expanding their own businesses. We are committed to creating a supportive community where women can gain knowledge, build connections, and thrive personally and professionally.

Do you have a favored quote or maxim that holds profound significance for you?

One quote that holds profound significance for me is:

“Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts."

—Winston Churchill

Also, I always say: “I will use my heart to love the most, my brain to create the best, and my feet to walk the farthest.”

What hobbies or pastimes do you enjoy in your free time?

I am deeply passionate about dancing, singing, and painting. These activities allow me to express myself uniquely and connect with others on a deeper level.

How can our readers contact you and learn more about your business?

Dear readers, please feel free to reach out to us via any of these channels:

Email: info@newmoonblinds.com

Website: www.newmoonblinds.com

Social media: Instagram @ newmoon_blinds

Phone: (571) 591-3949

We will be happy to connect and provide more information about Newmoon Blinds. Additionally, you can visit our website or social media profiles to learn more about our products, services, and mission. We look forward to hearing from you!

In closing, is there a message or thought you wish to convey to our readers?

In closing, I would like to convey a message of gratitude and encouragement to our readers. Life is a journey filled with ups and downs, challenges, and triumphs, but it is also a beautiful experience that shapes who we are and aspire to be. As you continue your journey, may you find fulfillment, joy, and purpose in every step you take. Thanks for accompanying me on this journey, and I wish you all the best in your endeavors ■

TRADE PROSPECTS BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES AND TÜRKİYE: DIVERSIFICATION OR SPECIALIZATION?

Increasing the export capacity of high-value products is critical to moving Türkiye to the higher income group.

By Sibel Kulaksiz

When I was recently asked to lead as Washington, DC, Representative of the World Turkish Business Council (DTİK), I started strategizing the best pathway to increase trade volume in productive sectors. Given high transport costs, expanding the USTürkiye trade volume from $35 billion USD to an envisioned $100 billion USD is not easy. Still, it is not an impossible vision if there will be a renewed approach to diversify trade into high-value products mainly through innovation and technological transformation.

It is encouraging to see that trade volume

has increased significantly in the past ten years compared to previous decades. However, the product composition remains about the same. The US is Türkiye's second largest export destination.

Chart 1 shows that America’s imports from Türkiye increased significantly from $4.4 billion USD in 2010 to $20.4 billion USD in 2022. America’s exports to Türkiye also surged from $10.3 billion USD in 2010 to $14.4 billion USD in 2022. Investments are increasing between the two countries, and new US companies are entering the Turkish market. This expansion seems sustainable as American companies usually make investment decisions with a 7-10-year perspective. In recent years, US companies entered the startup ecosystem through acquisitions in some sectors, such as gaming and retail. In some sectors, Türkiye is seen as an alternative market to China. American companies are now positioning Türkiye as a regional hub.

Currently, Türkiye ranks 25th in the US's imports with a share of 0.6 percent. There is significant untapped potential to

increase the share of Turkish exports to the US. Tables 1 and 2 show that Turkish export companies have specialized in traditional products. In 2022, building materials and carpets ranked highest, consistently Türkiye’s top export products to the US. In recent years, gold, jewelry, machinery, and automotive sectors experienced the highest increase in demand in the US. Specialization positively impacts the expansion of trade volume, as observed during the past decade. However, there is still room to add to this success through diversification

into higher-value Turkish export products, which will accelerate economic growth. Economic growth needs to be accompanied by higher total factor productivity growth and faster transformation toward industry to reach the high-income country level.

Among the products imported from the US, aircraft, iron and steel, mineral fuel and oils, boilers, machinery and mechanical devices, and optical, medical, and surgical devices rank first. Cooperation in the defense industry is expected to deepen in Türkiye-US commercial relations. It is

Table 1 - USA: Top Import Products from Türkiye, 2022

advisable to prioritize productive sectors rather than the defense industry to create economic opportunities for future generations. Currently, there are more than 2000 companies with American capital in Türkiye. These companies have the potential to create win-win solutions for all through prioritized investments in climate-friendly sectors.

While diversifying trade, Türkiye should focus on boosting total factor productivity to escape from middle-income status. To join the ranks of the high-income countries, sustained growth in the long-term is necessary. In Türkiye, total factor productivity usually stalls despite growing physical and human capital investments. To address this issue, technological advancements are needed to produce goods. If this is achieved, efficient production will lead to lower production costs and higher competitiveness.

There is also a high potential to increase trade and productivity in the services sectors. This could improve the quality of finance, telecommunications, logistics, and professional services. Such improvements, in turn, could boost the productivity and profitability of manufacturing sectors. Foreign direct investment is essential to access best practices and new services. A cooperation agenda could facilitate the trade of services and the adoption of competition-enhancing regulatory reforms. This will also help create new jobs, especially for the youth. Historically, the services trade has been dominated by travel and transport. Still, health services, communication, financial services, and insurance services exports have witnessed more rapid changes over the last decade. More potential in the digital economy and mobile game coding still needs to be explored.

Trade agreements could deepen economic collaboration and increase trade volume. A strategic trade partnership could focus on providing incentives that offset transportation and logistics costs. Türkiye could provide access to large markets. Despite slow progress in implementation, trade agreements generate positive impacts for all countries if designed carefully. The key is to develop deep and comprehensive agreements to avoid design flaws that shallow agreements bring. In addition to lowering trade costs, an excellent strategic partnership should focus on eliminating non-tariff measures and behind-the-border barriers.

The main question is where we want to see Turkish exports in the next decade to reach a high-income level goal. The strategy towards this goal will help answer the questions about where to diversify and where to specialize. Revealed comparative advantages, export sophistication, and product space analysis could be complemented with price projections in strategic sectors and external demand estimates in the medium to long term. Investment decisions should be based on competitiveness projections of targeted high-value export sectors. Production of intermediate goods could be an excellent start for Turkish companies to move toward higher value-added industries. The economic partnership will strengthen political stabilization. The literature shows that economic collaboration stimulates growth much faster, increasing household income for all countries involved. ■

Sibel Kulaksız is a Senior Economist with the World Bank Group South Asia Region, based in Washington, DC. She also served as Country Economist for Middle East and Africa regions taskmanaging macroeconomic policy work with a focus on economic growth, fiscal policy, international trade and regional economic integration issues.

Ms. Kulaksiz is the Executive Board Member of the Harvard Kennedy School Women’s Network, and Co-President of the Arya Women International Club. She sits on the Executive Board of the Istanbul Economy Summit. She is also the Washington, DC, representative of the World Turkish Business Council.

PHOTO BY PAT WHELEN

Dear Turkish Woman,

Happy Women's Day! I see you on your journey on this oceanside, living through your excitements, worries, and never-ending questions about life – a life unlike the one you were brought up to live. As a fellow woman who has walked a path like yours and as someone who has witnessed dozens of successful Turkish women acing the challenges of living in the US and building various types of lives, I pen this letter with a heart full of empathy, hope, and resilience for you.

Regardless of your background in Türkiye and your goals in coming here, a different challenge awaits you in the US. Your journey is not easy, but it is equally rewarding and exciting. Reflect on the miles you have traveled so far. I am talking about the 8,000 miles you flew across the ocean and, more importantly, the miles you traveled internally. You did not just leave behind your childhood streets, the aroma of freshly brewed Turkish tea, or the warmth of your family, but also a part of yourself as you knew it. Everything is new; your identity changes, and you may feel overwhelmed and sometimes lost.

There will be days when you need clarification on whether you belong here. The frustration you feel when you cannot find the right word, rejection from another job, or loneliness surrounding you on a Friday evening can be overwhelming. Do not let these emotions drain you. Allow yourself to feel each one, reminding yourself of your courage to come this far and your inner strength. You will look back at these days as the building stones of your resilience.

In time, you will realize that you are unique and beautiful with your personality, culture, traditions, and values. This country is a tapestry of cultures, so feel empowered to bring out your differences. As you become more comfortable in your skin, you will see the incredible power of the common human experience; everyone has their own story.

Challenges aside, you will find new opportunities and a different type of freedom in this country. You have new rights and responsibilities in your workplace and civil life. Learn about them; they will be one of your initial steps to empowerment. Be aware of the rules of social life as well. This will increase your self-esteem and reflect in your attitude.

No matter where you are in your path, whether it be marriage, school, or career, seek help when you need it. Whether talking to a professional, joining a support group, or simply sharing your feelings with a friend—your mental health is as important as your physical well- being.

Lastly, amid your painful struggles, remember to celebrate every small victory. Every step you take is a dance of triumph over the challenges you face. You are not just surviving; you are thriving.

As you continue this journey, carry this thought with you: you are crafting a new narrative for yourself and for those who will follow in your footsteps. This is your superpower; embrace it fully.

With love and respect,

Dr Burcin Ogrenir

Dr Burcin Ogrenir, a Family and Parenting Coach and the Director of April Institute, specializes in child development, personal growth, family dynamics, and education. She pursued her graduate studies in Clinical Psychology and Early Childhood Education from Penn State University. As a former Assistant Professor at the City University of New York, her influence reached international audiences through her teaching and scholarly presentations. Dr Ogrenir's mission centers on serving diverse populations, making knowledge in child development, family relationships, and personal wellbeing accessible to all.

AN INSPIRING AND MOTIVATIONAL WELLNESS PRESENTER

ELVAN DEMİRKAN

Elvan Demirkan, celebrated for her wellness seminars across major institutions, shares insights from her transformative journey to wellness following a severe car accident. Emphasizing self-care, she became a best-selling author in Türkiye.

By Oya Bain

An inspiring and motivational wellness presenter, Elvan Demirkan, has led many seminars and workshops for the Department of Defense, Smithsonian Institute, Inova Well Hospitals, American University, Gannett, NPR, Nestle, UPS, the US Senate, and many other private and public organizations. After a car accident that changed her life and forced her to learn how to walk again, she realized the importance of self-care. She became a best-selling self-help author in Türkiye with her four books. With her 25 years of experience, she continues to share her insights on many platforms, helping people manage their stress more consciously.

Can you tell us about your early beginnings? Original birthplace? Your parents?

I was born in Izmir, Türkiye, and grew up in the magnificent natural area of the Aegean. My parents were divorced when I was a baby. My mother was a coordinator at the cosmetics company Elizabeth Arden. Because of her work, I grew up around celebrities. She was beautiful

when she was young; people used to confuse her with Turkish singer Emel Sayın. My father was an architect and lived in Europe. He was not around when I was a child. I was raised mainly by my grandparents.

Higher education? Where and what did you study?

I studied economics and accounting at 9 Eylul University in Izmir, but I was never passionate about this subject. I found my purpose much later in life. Life has a funny way of working itself out.

What inspired you to choose your career/s path?

It all started 25 years ago. I had already moved to America. Mindfulness practices and yoga were becoming more mainstream, I got my certifications and started teaching them. At that time, my husband was trying to establish an assembly plant for commercial air conditioning units. Things looked promising, but when the recession came, and the construction industry stopped, we lost everything. One evening, while my mind was full of uncertainties, I was driving

to the supermarket to buy milk and got into a devastating car accident. I thought I had died. The thing that reminded me I was still alive was the excruciating pain in my broken hip. It took me two surgeries and a year to walk again. The same year, I lost a family member, and my marriage could not handle these pressures, so it ended. I was cracked open and vulnerable.

Becoming more emotionally powerful and authentic starts with going through hardship in life because it slows you down and forces you to look deeper and see the bigger picture.

Finding my ground took me a while, but this experience brought out my resilience and determination, expanded my little world, and made me whole. It helped me discover my purpose. I started writing and became a columnist at Sabah Newspaper and an author of four best-selling books in Türkiye.

This terrible life experience paved the way for you to develop your skills, purpose, and the work you do. How do you define your work?

For 25 years, I have shared my experience and insight through stress management

Demirkan's early life in Izmir, shaped by her mother's glamour and a passion discovered beyond her economics studies, led her to a career in mindfulness, where she navigates life's challenges with resilience and creativity.

seminars, mindfulness practices, and yoga in the corporate world, government institutions, news organizations, schools, hospitals, and more. I work with CEOs, politicians, artists, scientists, teachers, students, doctors, patients. One thing is obvious: spending all your time and energy to gain power and make money is not enough to feel good about yourself. One could argue focusing solely on these things can lead to unhappiness. To feel complete and content, you need to invest time in yourself to care for your mind, body, and soul. And that is what I teach. I try to inspire people to recognize and internalize the primary benefits of self-care. And this is not just about eating healthy and excercising. To me, slowing down is the most rewarding form of self-care. "Slow" is a scary word in the corporate world, but it does not mean you must change your lifestyle or lose your power. It is about balance. Slowing down makes you more aware and deliberate about how and where to spend your energy. It could be as simple as getting good sleep or taking three mindful breaths when you need to calm and center. It is about learning to say no when your system needs a break. Slowing down is yes to stress and no to constant stress. When you cultivate this, life will not wear you out.

How do you slow down? Could you describe your daily routine for us?

I live in the woods. Every morning, I wake up to the magnificent sounds and views of

nature. My neighbors are all birds, squirrels, foxes, deer, and possums. Rain, shine, or snow, I feed the birds every morning. I like to wear comfortable clothes daily because no one is around to impress except the birds. :) Living in nature has many challenges, but it taught me to find happiness in simple things. Nature forces you to relax, feel, be in the moment, be yourself, and reflect all that beauty. I am a morning person. I cannot wait to get up to have my breakfast. I like colorful food. My breakfast consists of sliced tomato, cucumber, mango, papaya, avocado, cheese, boiled egg, blueberry jam (I make it), cappuccino, and tea. It takes 15 minutes to prepare, but since it is a ritual for me, I deliberately extend it to 20 minutes. There can be no better start to the day than this. The feeling of "I nourished my soul" expands within you, and you can build your day on this feeling.

What hobbies and activities do you enjoy in your free time?

I started playing pickleball during the pandemic, but I have not had much time for it lately. I love going on nature walks. Being in nature is my happy place. It helps me instantly feel lighter and brighter. On the weekends, I love gathering for brunch with friends around big tables, eating, talking, and laughing. I also enjoy taking small road trips to discover good mountain restaurants.

I believe happiness is about finding joy in the simple.

What is your favorite quote? What is your proudest moment in your life?

"Look inward—The loving begins with you." I had a difficult childhood, so I remember this quote every day.

There are a few moments I am proud of. Seeing my first book go #1 on the bestseller list was breathtaking. I was even more proud the day daughter, Mira, graduated from Berklee Colloge of Music in 2017. Grammy President Neil Portnow and musician Lionel Richie were receiving the honorary degree of doctors of music in the same year and shared the stage with Mira. She currently works as a creative director at a record company. Thanks to her Uncle Demir Demirkan and Sertab Erener, she grew up being familiar with the life of a musician.

Could you tell us about your experiences in Washington, DC? What are some memorable ones?

A few years ago, the Turkish Embassy hosted an event focusing on women’s empowerment with Shaista Mahmood and US Congressman Gerry Connolly’s wife Catherine Smith, founders of "A Dialog for Peace and Understanding Platform." Composer Fahir Atakoglu and I were the guest speakers at this event. Many ambassadors and senators' wives were among the 50 distinguished guests at the Turkish Embassy Residence. Before my speech, the ambassadors' wives of five countries and

Advocating for a balanced life, Demirkan practices what she preaches by embracing nature's tranquility, which fuels her teachings on mindfulness and the power of slowing down for holistic well-being.

the senators' wives of two opposing parties were sitting at the table where I was sitting. We are so used to seeing politicians sparring in front of the media, but this group of spouses, despite their differences in every way, enjoyed each other's company. It was such a fun table, which helped me give a more enjoyable speech to everyone.

Is there something that the readers of TurkNetwork magazine might be surprised to learn about you?

I am told that I make the best breakfast in town by the food critics (my friends). :-) Joke aside, I pay a lot of attention to politics.

Who has been the most influential person in your life and why?

I went to Puerto Rico about a year after the accident, and I was still in a lot of pain. And there I met Don Carlos. Meeting him changed my relationship with my body. He was a 92-year-old man living in a very primitive house in the mountains of Puerto Rico. He had made guitars and cuatros for legendary musicians in his time. My friend then, now my husband Miguel Angel Rivera was interviewing him for television, and I was hanging out with them. Don Carlos, despite his age, looked so young and joyful. He was never married; I do not know if this could be the reason. :-) I asked him the secret of how he looked so young. His living space was so small that his bed was in the living room. “Let me show you!” he said. He laid down on his bed, closed his eyes, and said: “Every night for 40 years, I lie down on my bed and release the weight of my body onto the mattress and the heaviness in my head onto the pillow, then I relax every single part of my body, and I sleep like a baby.” Wow!!!! I mean, it was not a groundbreaking thing, because I was already teaching muscle relaxation. But he was living what he said at that moment. It just hit me. That night, I lay in bed and realized how hard I was clenching my fist under my pillow. I was not even breathing. I have never noticed this before. This is how tension makes a home in our body. It deprives us of all our energy reserves. Sharing how to release this habitual tension has been the heart of my teaching for the past 25 years. I met thousands of people, and I have never met anyone who did not benefit from

realizing where they need to release their habitual tension.

Would you like to share any message with our readers?

If you like to feel more at ease, one minute of practice a few times daily can make a difference. You can take several letting-go breaths, softening and relaxing all the tense muscles in your body. Your jaw, your shoulders, your palms. Let go of unnecessary

holding, tightening, and gripping in these areas. This pause will quickly transition your mind and body from stress to calm. It is instant recharge. It allows us to handle the next moment less habitually. Your readers can reach me at elvandemirkan@hotmail. com for more information.

We thank you very much for taking the time to do this interview. Thank you for having me. ■

WHOSE NEVRUZ IS IT ANYWAY?

Nevruz is more than a day on the calendar; it is a vibrant festival that captures the essence of new beginnings, shared joy, and the enduring legacy of traditions passed through generations.

By Ercüment Akman

Nevruz is recognized today by a name of Persian origin, with "Nev" meaning new and "ruz" meaning day, originally derived from a word for light. However, it is not sufficient to describe Nevruz, as the Turkic people refer to it, from just this single source. Historical Chinese sources reveal that Turks have been celebrating the New Year by visiting the countryside on March 21 with food for spring festivities, a tradition still observed today.

Nevruz is considered a shared cult and culture of Turkish and Persian communities, symbolizing the unique cultural values of various nations and celebrated across a vast geography from the Balkans to Central Asia by Turkish societies in Central Asia, the Azeris, Kazakhs, Uzbeks, Tatars, Uighur Turks, as well as

Anatolian and Balkan Turks. Nizami'ul Mulk, a Persian-origin statesman, highlighted that this holiday was celebrated most vibrantly among the communities of Asia Minor and Central Asia.

The earliest mention of Nevruz appears in texts dating back to the 11th century in Ferdowsi's epic poem, Book of Kings (Shahnameh). The absence of references to Nevruz in earlier Persian texts suggests that the celebration might have originated among Turkic tribes.

During the era of Seljuk Sultan Meliksah, a calendar that started with Nevruz and reflected the ruler's name was known as "Takvimi Meliki," "Takvimi Sultani," and "Takvimi Celali."

Kashgari Mahmud, in his Divanu Lughatit-Turk, mentions that Turks consider Nevruz as an Independence Day. Nevruz signifies the "exit" in the Ergenekon legend, marking the beginning of the year

when Gokturk rulers celebrated by hammering a hot iron, symbolically linked to an iron rod, representing the Turk's axis mundi, the North Star Polaris.

SOME NEVRUZ PRACTICES IN ANATOLIA

Tribes from the Kayi clan, founders of the Ottoman Dynasty, would gather at the mausoleum of Ertugrul Gazi on March 21, holding ceremonies known as the Yoruk (nomad) Holiday. Ottoman sultans emphasized Nevruz with poems called Nevruziye presented to the sultans and statesmen. The chief astrologer would present the Sultan with a new calendar to receive a special monetary reward, the "Nevruziye Bahsisi."

Taffies made with various spices, also called Nevruziye, would be offered to the sultan's family and visiting dignitaries. In Manisa, Mesir festivities continue to be held on Nevruz Day, with Mesir macunu

(taffies) being thrown from the Sultan Mosque.

During traditional celebrations among Taurus Turkmens of Silifke, known as "Mart Ipligi" (March Thread), pieces of cloth are tied to trees with wishes. Tahtacı Turkmens refer to it as "Sultan Nevruz." In some villages near Malatya, people

celebrate it as the "Winter is Over" feast. In Urla, it is the "March Nine Festivities," and in Tire, the "Sultan Nevruz Holiday."

In Giresun, the celebration on March 14 is known as "Mart Bozumu," where water is fetched from nearby rivers and sprinkled on farm animals. In the Iğdır region, on the eve of March 20, girls and boys make a wish, wash in the river by immersing themselves at least three times, wear new clothes, and knock hard-boiled eggs as a symbol of rebirth.

In Ağrı and surrounding areas, young people make wishes, eavesdrop to interpret conversations, and unmarried young men eat salted dough pastry "tuzlu gillik" before bed without drinking water, believing they will dream of their future bride offering water. Around Tunceli, men blacken their foreheads before cleansing, praying, and making wishes at a spring.

In Edirne, Sultan Nevruz festivities on March 22 involve burning old straw mats and jumping over them chanting "March In, Flea Out!" In Kırklareli, traditions similar to Christian Easter involve picnicking with painted eggs on "Mart Dokuzu" (Nine of March), enjoying traditional foods such as "börek" and "lokma."

For Alevi and Bektashi followers, Nevruz also marks the birthday of Hazreti Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of Muhammad, the Prophet of Islam.

NEVRUZ TODAY

On March 23, 1922, "Ergenekon Day" was celebrated in Ankara with Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic, in attendance, featuring a ceremony in front of the Parliament and in Taşhan Square, including a military parade. This tradition was later abandoned and only revived in the 1990s to further a political agenda of cultural connection with post-Soviet Turkish republics and to counter the rising popularity of Kurdish Exinox celebrations associated with the ironsmith Kawa myth.

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed International Nevruz Day on September 30, 2009, at the initiative of several countries, including Türkiye, that share this holiday.

Whether called Nevruz or Newroz, it signifies a time for rebirth and extends a Happy Spring wish to the world. ■

Ercüment Akman was born in Istanbul. He studied architecture at the Academy of Fine Arts, Fındıklı, and pursued postgraduate studies in Urban and Regional Planning at the Technical University, Taşkışla. He worked for the Turkish Film Archives and was a film critic for national newspapers. After moving to Canada in 1978 and later to the US, he worked as an architect and served as an independent film curator. He continues to lecture on cultural issues and writes for the Turkish Cinema Newsletter. Now retired from corporate architecture, he is focusing on various book projects.

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY ON MARCH 8!

Empowering rural Turkish women through education, culture, and economic independence, the "Women and Life" project showcases the transformative power of community-based initiatives.

By Dilek Livaneli

In the heart of rural Türkiye, a remarkable saga unfolded as I, a passionate village school teacher, embarked on a transformative journey with the "Women and Life" project. This extraordinary initiative was not just about educating village women; it was a symphony of empowerment that resonated through education, culture, and economic independence. In the first part, I witnessed the profound impact as illiterate village women discovered the magic of reading and writing, breaking the shackles of ignorance. The second part unfolded a riveting narrative where culture and art burst into these women's lives, expanding their horizons beyond the confines of tradition. Finally, in the third and climactic phase, the women experienced the empowering crescendo as economic opportunities bloomed, transforming once marginalized women into architects of their destiny. This is more than a story; it is a testament to the boundless potential within every woman and the ripple effect that empowerment can have on an entire community.

The Education of Village Women

In the heart of rural Türkiye, where traditions held a firm grip, I, as a woman, took on the role of a village school teacher for 17 years. It was a journey that led me to a profound understanding of village women's lives, struggles, and unexplored potential.

My passion for education fueled the initiation of a transformative project named "Women and Life." In this endeavor, the

initial focus was on the educational empowerment of the village women. The backdrop of their lives revealed a clear profile: many lived with their in-laws, their husbands often worked in distant cities, and they engaged in agricultural and animal husbandry activities to sustain their families.

The first stage of the project aimed at eradicating illiteracy among these women. For two years, I dedicated myself to teaching them to read and write. The results were astounding – no illiterate women were left in the village. Witnessing these women, who once couldn't comprehend written words, reading books and newspapers for the first time was a profoundly emotional experience. One of them, Semiye Hanım, expressed the

transformation in a simple yet powerful statement: "I used to take my medicines according to their colors, now I take them according to their names."

Encouraged by this success, I expanded the educational initiatives. Some village women went on to graduate from secondary school externally, and, for the first time, a woman in the village obtained a driver's license. The pride emanating from these achievements was immeasurable.

I established a Mother's Library, a treasure trove of 500 books to further enrich their lives. Weekly reading activities with the mothers became a bonding experience and a source of intellectual stimulation. Family education courses were also introduced, covering mothers with children aged 0-12. Sociologists and

psychologists were invited to provide home and group therapies, transforming not only the lives of the women but also the dynamics within their homes.

One of the most heartwarming aspects was the emotional moments when women, who could not believe they had learned to read, burst into tears while reading books. The power of education began to manifest itself, not only in the women but also in the entire village. Despite not holding a position in a large holding company or being a CEO, my ability to gather the entire village within 15 minutes with a single call highlighted the tremendous power of teaching and the community's trust in me.

This journey marked not just the education of village women but the empowerment of an entire community through knowledge and literacy. It set the stage for the subsequent phases of the "Women and Life" project, each aiming to unlock the untapped potential and capabilities of these resilient women.

The Meeting of Village Women with Culture and Art

Amidst the rustic charm of the Turkish village, where the echoes of tradition reverberated through every corner, a new chapter unfolded in the women's lives. Following the success of the initial

phase focused on education, the "Women and Life" project took a bold step into the realm of culture and art.

One day, a village woman, in a moment of candid honesty, expressed, "Teacher, we are very bored now." It was a sentiment echoing the monotony of their lives, confined to the familiar rhythms of henna nights and weddings. The cultural landscape was limited, and the need for diversity and enrichment was palpable.

In response, I embarked on a mission to introduce the village women to experiences they had never encountered. Recognizing these women's dearth of social outlets, I sought to elevate their cultural and artistic awareness. The journey began with outings to cinemas and theaters, a realm unknown to many. The objective was to entertain and provide a platform for mothers to share these experiences with their children.

Facing skepticism and judgment, the decision to take the village women to the opera sparked controversy. Critics questioned, "Are you going to people yelling?" or "What are you doing at the opera?" Undeterred, the goal was clear—to offer the village women an opportunity to experience something beyond the ordinary. The choice of plays like Ses ile Anadolu, Keşanlı Ali, and Hekimoğlu aimed to

bridge the gap and break down prejudices.

The impact was profound. The women watched the opera with bated breath, realizing that cultural experiences extended beyond their familiar surroundings. I brought the opera to them to address the challenge of taking the entire village to the opera. Samsun State Opera and Ballet Artists were invited to the village, introducing the women to polyphonic performing arts. This transformative encounter with culture and art gave the village women a visionary perspective.

The initiative continued. Celebrating Women's Day at school for the first time, I organized poetry recitals showcasing the newfound talents of women who had never read or written poetry. Events like "A Folk Song for Every Woman" expanded the cultural horizon, inviting Turkish Folk Music artists to the village for concerts.

Furthermore, theater was brought to the school, accompanied by panels addressing women's issues and gender equality. The ripple effect was tangible—the joy and enlightenment gained by the women resonated not only in their lives but also within the entire community. The cultural infusion was changing perceptions and broadening horizons, laying the groundwork for the final phase of the project—the economic empowerment of village women.

Gaining Economic Freedom of Village Women.

As the "Women and Life" project unfolded in the Turkish village, the narrative seamlessly transitioned into its culminating phase pursuing economic freedom for the village women. Motivated by the belief that empowerment extends beyond knowledge and cultural exposure, I set out to create sustainable economic opportunities that would transform their lives.

The realization dawned that education and cultural enrichment, while transformative, needed to be complemented by economic empowerment for lasting impact. This led to the decision to repurpose an unused, dilapidated building within the school compound into a vocational training workshop.

Within a modest 20-square-meter area, 20 women were engaged in the process of refurbishing old wooden benches, repairing broken machines, and crafting the upper parts of shoes. It was a

hands-on approach that not only provided the women with valuable skills but also ignited a sense of productivity and selfworth. What emerged from this endeavor was not just a workshop; it was a symbol of economic independence taking root in the lives of these resilient women.

However, the success of the vocational training initiative soon outgrew the initial space. The need for a larger production area became apparent, prompting the construction of a 160-square-meter workshop in the school's backyard. Remarkably, this expansion was achieved without any external assistance from the government, underlining the community's commitment to the cause.

Equipping the workshop with machines was a concerted effort that involved reaching out to businesses of all sizes, from the smallest tradesmen to the largest businessmen. The results were tangible—a sustainable production hub that not only met local demands but also contributed to

the economic revival of the village.

Financial independence was a key aspect of this phase. Every woman in the workshop was provided with her own bank card, a symbol of individual economic agency. Teaching them to withdraw money from ATMs was a crucial step, breaking down the barriers of unfamiliarity. The message was clear—these women were not only contributors to the local economy but also capable of managing their financial affairs independently.

Taking a visionary step further, I initiated a project involving women over the age of 45. This "grandmother and grandfather" project centered around a handicraft workshop where they created felt designs and ready-made flowers. Establishing connections with companies, these women not only gained economic independence but also showcased their creations in exhibitions, contributing to the broader economic landscape.

The impact reverberated beyond the economic sphere. It fostered a spirit of collaboration, emphasizing that leadership is not about superiority but about empowering others. The village women, once confined to domestic roles, were now active participants in economic activities, contributing to the revival of their community.

In conclusion, the "Women and Life" project evolved into a holistic journey –from education to cultural exposure and finally to economic empowerment. It underscored the transformative power of collective efforts and illustrated that when women are given the tools and opportunities, they become agents of change not only in their lives but in the entire fabric of society. ■

Dilek Livaneli has 20 years’ of experience and is a renowned educator and counselor. A Gazi University alumna with a master’s from the Institute of Social Sciences, Dilek has impacted education through her service in Turkish village schools and initiation of substantial projects. She was honored as the Teacher of the Year in 2012 and was a Nobel Global Teacher Prize nominee in 2015. Her “One Wish Is Not Enough” Project was nominated for a UNESCO award in 2018. Dilek is also an Education Ambassador for the Varkey Gems Foundation, continuing to elevate the educational landscape.

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EDUCATION

BRIDGING EDUCATION AND SCIENCE BETWEEN TÜRKİYE AND THE US

Opportunities for Collaboration between the US and Türkiye

By Dr Zeliha Koçak Tufan

Internationalization and collaborations worldwide are more essential than ever. Turkish universities and institutions have been collaborating with numerous countries in recent years. Government bodies provide significant scholarships and funding opportunities for academics and researchers. The awareness of these opportunities that Türkiye provides is relatively low in some countries.

Some researchers in America are also unaware that Türkiye is within the European Higher Education Area and European Research Area. This means that institutions or academics/researchers in the United States can also apply jointly with Turkish institutions to access European Union funds.

There is enormous potential for collaborations between Türkiye and the US; university-to-university, university-to-public-private sector, and various other forms of collaboration are all feasible.

MAIN TURKISH INSTITUTIONS AND GOVERNMENT BODIES FOR FUNDS AND GRANTS

The main government bodies for funds and grants for education and research that may attract US-based researchers and students are the Ministry of National Education (MoNE, MEB); Council of Higher Education (CoHE, YÖK); The Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB); Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TÜBİTAK); Health Institutes of Türkiye (TUSEB); and Türkiye National Agency (TNA, TUA).

OPPORTUNITIES FOR US-BASED TURKISH CITIZENS

Turkish and Turkish-Culture Courses

For preschool, elementary, middle, and high school students, MEB has given Turkish and Turkish-culture courses remotely since Spring 2022. These courses are all free. Hundreds of Turkish students are already enrolled in these distance learning courses. Both spring and fall semester applications are possible (http://tinyurl. com/z678pfe3).

For Undergrad and Graduate Students

For university students, applications for third-country scholarships from Austria to Japan are also available through MEB (http://tinyurl.com/4eepz397).

For graduate studies, Turkish citizens can apply to ‘’YLSY Scholarships’’ of MEB (Commonly known with the Law No. 1416), the graduate studies scholarships for studying abroad. All Turkish citizens, graduated from Türkiye, US, or elsewhere can apply to study in US or other countries. Besides monthly scholarship payments, school fees, domestic and international transportation expenses, health expenses, exam fees (if any), and educational expenses required by the university are all covered.

There are also ‘’international joint undergraduate programs’’ between US and Turkish universities such as Istanbul Technical University and New Jersey Institute of Technology; Marmara University and University of North Carolina; Middle East Technical University and SUNY; etc. These programs allow studying two years in Türkiye and two years in the US. It is a

great opportunity for graduates to build a network and have a common understanding of both countries.

Those who want to experience the work life in Türkiye can take a look at the National Internship Program, which provides the opportunity to apply to dozens of institutions (http://tinyurl.com/47pd8p4w).

For Researchers

Many TÜBİTAK and TÜSEB funds and scholarships are available for students and researchers. US-based researchers can host Turkish scientists and can also pursue studies in Türkiye.

Some TÜBİTAK funds include, but are not limited to:

2232-A International Fellowship for Outstanding Researchers, 2232-B International Fellowship for Early-Stage Researchers

2216 Research Fellowship Program for International Researchers

3501 Career Development Program

For those interested, the Turkish National Agency manages Erasmus Plus and European Solidarity Corps (ESC) opportunities (https://www.ua.gov.tr/en).

Social and Cultural Funds

YTB gives scholarships to Turks abroad for social, cultural, and merit reasons. Some of the calls were: Specialization Scholarship in Family and Social Services, Thesis and Research Scholarship, Senior High Scholarships, etc. Besides these, YTB also supports Turkish and Turkish-culture courses (https://ytb.gov.tr/daireler/ yurtdisi-vatandaslar/vatandaslik)

OPPORTUNITIES FOR US CITIZENS Undergrad and Graduate Students: Türkiye Scholarships

Higher education scholarship programs provided by Türkiye were branded as “Türkiye Scholarships” in 2012, and studies

were carried out under the coordination of YTB. Türkiye Scholarships Program is a government-funded higher education scholarship program for international students. So, US citizens can also apply.

YTB received 117,000 applications from 162 countries just in 2023. Türkiye Scholarships is considered to be the most comprehensive scholarship program in the world with the possibility of university and department placement, monthly scholarships, tuition fees, health insurance, accommodation, Turkish language courses flight tickets, and free academic and cultural programs (https://www.Türkiyeburslari.gov.tr/)

Researchers and Academics

TÜBİTAK offers numerous funds and scholarships for international researchers, covering diverse programs ranging from STEM fields to social sciences. All short term and long term university visits are also available through these funds.

US citizens can also apply for the

2244 Industrial Doctorate Fellowship Program

EDUCATION

above-mentioned 2232-A International Fellowship for Outstanding Researchers, 2232-B International Fellowship for EarlyStage Researchers, 2216 Research Fellowship Program for International Researchers, and many others.

Turkish and US citizens who want to apply for European Funds can also apply through Türkiye by collaborating with Turkish institutions. Horizon Europe calls are also represented by TUBITAK (https:// ufukavrupa.org.tr/en).

Ministries and other institutions, as well as universities, have scholarships and funds available. Only the primary sources are listed here. Recently, our Counselor’s Office hosted a webinar for researchers based in the US. The webinar focused on TÜBİTAK and European funds and opportunities available through Türkiye. You can access the informative webinar here: http://tinyurl.com/5byfx8sz

BUILDING AN ACADEMIC BRIDGE BETWEEN TÜRKIYE AND US

Türkiye has supported US institutions and laboratories for nearly a hundred years through YLSY Scholarships. Turkish graduate students study and research innovative agricultural practices, cybersecurity, vaccine studies, epidemiology, biotechnology, energy policies, sustainable energy, air and space technologies, international law, and more. The scholarship recipients significantly contribute to the research ecosystem during their master's and PhD studies in the US.

After completing their studies, some scholarship holders are appointed to important positions in Türkiye. Past Ankara and Middle East Technical University Rector and Head of Turkish Standards Institute Prof Tarık Somer (Bachelor: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, MSc MIT, PhD Maryland University), former Finance

Minister Mr Adnan Kahveci MSc and PhD from Purdue and Missouri Universities); former Minister of National Education and President of CoHE, Prof. Mehmet Sağlam, MSc and PhD from New York University); former Vice President of Türkiye, Fuat Oktay MSc and PhD from Wayne State University) are among the well-known names who continued their education in US with Turkish government scholarships and served Türkiye in important positions.

According to the State Department reports, approximately 8,500 Turkish students at the undergraduate and graduate levels are studying in the US. Some scholarship holders and other researchers who come to the US may prefer to stay longer and continue their studies in the US instead of returning to Türkiye. These researchers represent an important potential for bilateral cooperation between the US and Türkiye for academic studies and research and can be a point of contact for fruitful future collaborations.

The US and Türkiye have been close allies for many years. Turkish Americans are an important part of the US population, contributing significantly to academia, science, innovation, culture, art, and business. Our science and education diplomacy efforts focus on building bridges through academia and research to foster greater understanding and strong partnerships. ■

Zeliha Koçak Tufan, MD, Prof, an Education Counselor born in Wedel in August 1977, began her medical studies at Hacettepe University in 1994, continuing at Yüzüncü Yıl University from 1999. With experience in several countries, she joined the Council of Higher Education (YÖK) in 2015, playing a key role in initiatives like Recognition and Equivalence legislation and the Foundation Higher Education Institutions Action Plan. Tufan led projects including the Barrier-Free Universities Awards and established the CBRN Working Group, also heading the Preservation of Academic Heritage in the Middle East Project. Serving on boards like the Health Professions Board and the National Coronavirus Coordination Committee, Tufan was appointed Education Counselor in Washington, DC, in December 2021. She is married with two children.

SEVEN STRATEGIES FOR TEACHING CHILDREN TURKISH HERITAGE IN THE UNITED STATES

In the heart of the home, language and cuisine intertwine, creating a flavorful and linguistic legacy for Turkish-American children.

By Zeynep Cobanoglu

Teaching children about their Turkish heritage in the United States can be an enriching experience for the entire family. Here are seven tips to help you effectively impart this valuable cultural knowledge:

1. Use Community Centers

Many Turkish families in the US benefit from community or cultural centers. These centers often offer language classes, cultural events, and educational programs, playing a vital role in preserving Turkish culture and language.

2. Attend or Establish Weekend Schools

Similar to other immigrant communities, Turkish weekend schools provide a mix of language literacy, cultural history, religious education, and other subjects. These schools are essential for children to learn the Turkish language and heritage in a structured environment.

3. Participate in Cultural Events

Engaging in cultural events and activities helps children experience their heritage first-hand. This can include Turkish festivals, music events, and traditional celebrations.

4. Promote Home Language Use

Encourage speaking Turkish at home. This not only improves language skills but also keeps the children connected to their roots.

5. Incorporate Turkish Literature and Media

Introduce children to Turkish books, movies, and music. This not only aids in language development but also helps them understand cultural narratives and history.

6. Cook and Share Turkish Cuisine

Cooking is a fun way to teach children about heritage. Preparing traditional Turkish dishes together can be a bonding experience and a way to discuss family history and cultural practices.

7. Encourage Interaction with Other Turkish Families

Social interactions with other families who share the same heritage can strengthen cultural ties and provide a sense of community.

Remember, maintaining and teaching heritage is a continuous process that involves the entire family and community. It is about creating a balance between the new and the old, ensuring that children appreciate their heritage while adapting to their current environment. ■

PHOTO BY ISTOCK / FIZKES

BRIDGING CULTURES: NURTURING TURKISH HERITAGE IN AMERICAN SOIL

Expanding further into the significance of heritage in the context of Turkish-American families, it is crucial to recognize the evolving nature of cultural identity in a diverse society like the United States. For children of Turkish descent, their heritage is not just a link to the past; it is a living part of their present identity. As they grow up in a multicultural environment, they learn to navigate and integrate multiple cultural perspectives, enriching their understanding of the world.

Turkish-American families often face the challenge of maintaining a balance between preserving their rich cultural heritage and adapting to the American way of life. This balancing act is not just about preserving traditions; it is about adapting and evolving them in new contexts. Activities such as attending Turkish language classes, participating in cultural festivals, and engaging with community groups play a crucial role. However, it's equally important to encourage these children to share their heritage with their peers, fostering a mutual understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.

Ultimately, the goal is to empower Turkish-American children to proudly embrace and celebrate their heritage while respecting and valuing the diverse tapestry of cultures around them. This journey of cultural exploration and identity formation is an integral part of their growth and development in the multicultural landscape of the United States.

PHOTO BY OZGUR DONMAZ

■ Linden Tree No. 234, Registered as an Arabian of an “unknown” family, was declared “to be a Barb.” He left no registered foals.

■ Leopard No. 233, Arabian stallion presented by Abdulhamid II, Sultan of Türkiye, to Gen. US Grant. He was the earliest Arabian imported (1879) and registered with The Arabian Horse Club of America.

■ Painting by Erastus Salisbury Field General Ulysses S. Grant and his Entourage Entering Constantinople Harbor in 1878 USS Vandalia.

IT HAPPENED HERE

AMBASSADOR ARISTARCHI BEY TAKES ON KELLEY CASE

By Mehmet Ali Munir

The USS Vandalia, a 2,033-ton screw slop launched in 1876, played a significant role in transporting former President Ulysses s. Grant during his Eastern Mediterranean tour as part of the European Squadron. Grant, alongside his wife Julia and one of their sons, embarked on a world tour in May 1877, visiting various ports in Italy, Egypt, Türkiye, and Greece over three months.

In March, the Grants arrived in Constantinople (now Istanbul) amidst the RussoTurkish War, with enemy forces just eight miles from the city. Despite the tense situation, Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II warmly welcomed Grant, offering him two horses, Leopard and Lindentree, from the royal stables. These stallions, transported to the US on the Norman Monarch, contributed to the foundation of the country's first successful Arabian breeding program.

A notable incident involving the USS Vandalia occurred on February 14, 1877, when crewman Patrick Kelley, in a drunken state, murdered Tahir, a customs officer in Smyrna (now Izmir). Kelley was arrested by Ottoman police and handed over to the US consulate. However, in a departure from treaty agreements, Kelley was released by American diplomats without notifying Ottoman authorities, sparking a prolonged legal and diplomatic conflict known as "the Kelley affair."

Ambassador Gregory Aristarchis, also known as Aristarchi Bey, an Ottoman diplomat of Greek descent and a key figure in Ottoman law, was pivotal during this crisis. With a rich Ottoman administration and diplomacy background, Aristarchi Bey's efforts to resolve the Kelley affair were noteworthy.

However, the case remained unsettled during his tenure in Washington, DC., from 1873 to 1883.1

Aristarchi Bey, known for his charm and popularity in the United States, later worked with Alfred Nobel on peace-promoting initiatives, including the concept of an International Court. Following a period of disfavor, he eventually served as the Ottoman envoy to the Netherlands, where he passed away in 1915. His life and career, marked by diplomatic endeavors and contributions to peace efforts, highlight the complex interactions between the Ottoman Empire and the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. ■

[1] Source: The Ottoman Empire, the United States, and the legal battle over extradition: the “Kelly affair” |Berna Kamay, PhD candidate, Department of History, Bogaziçi University.

Translation from French

William Maxwell Evarts (1818 –1901) an American lawyer and statesman from New York who served as US Secretary of State, US Attorney General and US Senator from New York.

Evarts: What do you want to do? Patrick Kelly is gone.

Aristarchi Bey: No, he did not run away; your agents let him go.

Evarts: As long as he is out of Ottoman territory, it is no longer important. I do not see another solution except for the extradition treaty. The United States Government has no right to use executive power against Kelly. Now, if you think you have the right to complain to us about this because of the claims that our agents helped the fugitive to leave, you could ask for satisfaction by the way of extradition.

Aristarchi Bey: We believe that the extradition convention applies only to those who escape on their own. Patrick Kelly does not belong in this category. Your government is responsible for his disappearance. Besides, he is not in the United States now. He is traveling in the waters of the Levant aboard the “Vandalia,” and the criminal has returned several times to Smyrna.

Evarts: Why did you not stop him, then?

Aristarchi Bey: Because we are discussing the matter with your government, and because the American captains are somewhat hot-headed, and they could have threatened to bombard Smyrna, as they once threatened to do in Tripoli.

Mehmet Ali Munir is a Balkan Turk who has lived in Canada and the US for 45 years. He researches Turks in America and writes about local history.

AFRO-TURKISH

SOLDIER OF OTTOMAN INTELLIGENCE SERVICE

“TEŞKİLAT-I MAHSUSA”

Zenci Musa of Sudan was the righthand man of famous Turkish-Ottoman intelligence operator Kuşçubaşı Eşref

By Uğur Akıncı

Did you know that one of the famous Ottoman intelligence officers was an African-Turk of Sudanese origin, named Zenci Musa?

What is “Zenci”?

“Zenci” means “a black-skinned person” in Turkish but it literally denotes a person from the “Zenc” region of Africa, which roughly corresponds to Eastern Africa (where Sudan is).

More precisely, Zanzibar is an island off the coast of Tanzania. Arabs called Zanzibar “Zencibar” and thus the inhabitants of Zanzibar were referred to as “Zenci” in Arabic.

Since most Ottoman slaves came from Sudan and Tanzania, the word “zenci” entered the Turkish language and has been used since then even for those former-slaves who eventually became free in the Ottoman Empire.

■ Zenci Musa of Sudan posing probably in Istanbul. Photographer Unknown.

HISTORY

Life Story

Even though Musa’s family is originally from Sudan, he was born a free man (and not a slave) in Crete in 1880. Back then Crete was still an Ottoman island in the Mediterranean.

He was a member of the Ottoman intelligence service Teşkilat-ı Mahsusa (Special Organization) and a volunteer soldier in the Ottoman Army. He was the bodyguard and personal orderly of Kuşçubaşı Eşref (1883–1964), a famous Ottoman intelligence officer.

When his father died, Musa moved to Cairo, Egypt, with his grandfather and settled in the Turkish neighborhood of the city where he learned his perfect Turkish.

He volunteered to fight in the Trablusgarp (today’s Tunisia and Libya) War in 1911, fighting the Italians together with his grandfather. That is where he met Kuşçubaşı Eşref, who was organizing the local tribes against the Italian occupation. He became Kuşçubaşı Eşref’s orderly.

Different Fronts and Campaigns

Zenci Musa continued his military career in the Ottoman Army during the worst days of

the Empire (years of WWI and Balkan Wars) by fighting in the Palestine, Hicaz-Yemen, Gallipoli fronts, and the First Suez Canal campaign.

According to an apocryphal story, during the occupation of Istanbul by the Allied forces (Nov 13, 1918–Oct 6, 1923), General Harrington, the British commander of the Allied command, tried to buy off Zenci Musa with a substantial bribe but Musa turned it down.

In the Service of Secret Service

One of the secret missions that Musa undertook for Teşkilat-ı Mahsusa sent him to Arabia of the time. He was asked to deliver 300,000 pieces of Ottoman gold to the Ottoman General Tevfik Pasha in Yemen.

His boss, Kuşçubaşı, and his men were ambushed by British-Arab Tribal forces in the Hayber. Kuşçubaşı was taken prisoner by the British (and shipped off to Malta). Taking advantage of the commotion, Musa managed to deliver the gold cargo to its address. But he would never see Kuşçubaşı again.

Support for National War of Liberation

After the Empire started to collapse, Zenci Musa gave his full support to the National War of Liberation (1919–1922) waged by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in Anatolia.

During the day, he worked as a porter (hamal) at Galata Port in Istanbul. During the night, he helped the underground organizations that smuggled arms and ammunition from Istanbul to Anatolia. Some claim that during such nocturnal labor he caught tuberculosis.

His Early Death

Zenci Musa died at age 39 from tuberculosis in 1919 when he was living in Özbekler Tekkesi (a Mevlevi religious order in Üsküdar, Istanbul).

When he died, his belongings included an Ottoman map, a photo of Kuşçubaşı Eşref, and a burial shroud (kefen) with which all Muslims are buried.

He is buried in the cemetery next to the Order but the exact location of his grave is not known today even though a symbolic headstone marks its approximate location ■

Uğur Akıncı, PhD, is a writer who worked for Fortune 100 companies including ADP, Fannie Mae, and Honeywell. During the 90s, he published the first Turkish bi-weekly newspaper in the US, The Turkish Times. He also worked as the Washington Bureau Chief of Turkish Daily News. A member of ATA-DC, he contributed to the Turkish-American community in various capacities as a writer and a board member. He is married with one son. You can email him here His website is here.

■ The symbolic headstone of Zenci Musa at Ozbekler Order Cemetery. Photo by Vlyalcin

AI UNLEASHED:

SIMPLE TOOLS FOR TURBOCHARGING YOUR US BUSINESS SUCCESS

EXPERT ADVICE

From designing captivating logos to crafting personalized emails and enhancing customer service, AI tools are revolutionizing the way businesses operate in the US

Explore how embracing AI can elevate your business, making processes simpler and more efficient without the need for tech expertise.

By Oguz Konar

Hello, everyone! Remember how we talked about getting loans for your businesses last time? This month, we are exploring something equally exciting—using AI tools to take our businesses in the US to the next level.

AI FOR MAKING LOGOS: QUICK AND EASY

Let us start with the face of your business—your logo. A good logo is not just a symbol; it is the first handshake with your customers. Tools like Looka and Tailor Brands use AI to simplify this process. You share your style preferences, and they create designs that make your business stand out. There is no need for design skills— these tools are user-friendly and efficient.

FINDING A BUSINESS NAME WITH AI

Picking the right name for your business is crucial. It is like naming a child; it sticks for life. AI can make this daunting task fun and simple. Tools like Namelix and Shopify's Business Name Generator work like a brainstorming partner, offering you a list of creative and relevant names based on your inputs. Just type in keywords related to your business, and watch the magic happen.

AI FOR WRITING EMAILS: CONNECT BETTER, FASTER

In our digital world, emails are the bridges that connect us with our customers. But writing good emails takes time and effort. AI tools like CopyAI and Jarvis are here to help. These tools can craft emails that are professional and have a personal touch—making your customers feel valued and understood. They are like having a personal assistant who is great at writing and saves you time.

IMAGE BY EI YWET

BOOSTING SALES WITH AI ADS

Effective advertising can differentiate between a thriving business and an unnoticed one. AI tools for advertising, such as AdEspresso by Hootsuite and Canva's Magic Resize, offer a helping hand. They guide you in creating ads that are not only visually appealing but also targeted to the right audience. Imagine being able to design ads that speak directly to your customer's needs—that is what these tools can help you achieve.

AI IN CUSTOMER SERVICE: MAKE EVERY CUSTOMER FEEL SPECIAL

Good customer service is the backbone of a successful business. AI chatbots and customer service tools can handle inquiries, provide instant responses, and even resolve basic issues, making customers feel heard and cared for. This improves customer satisfaction and frees up your time to focus on other aspects of your business.

LET US EMBRACE AI!

Using AI tools can transform how we do business in the US. From designing logos to writing emails, from creating compelling ads to providing excellent customer service, AI is here to make our lives easier. And the best part? You do not need to be a tech expert to use these tools. They are designed for everyone. So why not give them a try and see the difference they can make in growing your business? ■

Oguz Konar has been featured in many publications such as Forbes, Inc., USA Today, and Entrepreneur Magazine for the work he has done in the lending industry. His company, Business Lending Blueprint, has made the Inc5000 list (America's Fastest Growing Private Companies) 2 years in a row. His videos and educational materials have been seen by more than 20 million people. Find out more about his work here

BREWING BONDS:

THE CULTURAL TAPESTRY OF TURKISH COFFEE

Turkish coffee transcends mere taste, weaving a rich fabric of social rituals, enduring friendships, and cultural heritage, proving itself as not just a drink, but a pivotal element in the art of connection and tradition.

By Talip Murat Kolbaşı

In each issue, I delve into a new facet of coffee, exploring its rich tapestry and impact on our lives. Previously, we have journeyed through the annals of coffee's history and celebrated efforts to elevate Turkish coffee culture globally. This time, we are examining coffee's role in fostering social connections and other intriguing topics.

Socialization, succinctly described, is the process through which we assimilate into society, learning its norms and traditions. Though not explicitly mentioned in this definition, coffee emerges as a significant catalyst for social interaction, especially in societies where warmth and deep connections are the norm.

Introduced to our society around 500 years ago, Turkish coffee quickly cemented its place within social and royal circles. It evolved into a crucial element of daily gatherings, enabling socialization, and became integral to special ceremonies in the royal palace. The meticulous attention paid to every detail of coffee preparation and presentation—ranging from brewing techniques and froth adjustment to the selection of accompanying sweets and serving ware—reflected the significance and status of the recipients. Over time, Turkish coffee has become synonymous with special occasions, such as religious festivals and premarital family gatherings, spawning unique cultural rituals. It is fascinating how Turkish

coffee has developed its nonverbal language.

For instance, during marriage proposal ceremonies, tradition dictates that conversation only begins after an elder from the bride's family sips their coffee, signaling the guests' welcome. Another intriguing ritual involves the addition of salt to the prospective groom's coffee, a nuanced way for the bride to communicate her feelings toward the marriage proposal. Although the meaning of this ritual has evolved, the contemporary practice of the groom-to-be willingly consuming salted or even pepper-spiced coffee symbolizes his unwavering commitment to the bride, regardless of life's challenges. Fortune telling through coffee grounds is another unique tradition, fostering communication and further popularizing Turkish coffee culture by encouraging social gatherings beyond the digital realm.

Turkish coffee is not just a solitary pleasure; it is a medium of communication, enjoyed both alone for relaxation and with others for sharing and conversation. It stands as a testament to its ingrained presence in our society, where phrases like "Let's catch up over a coffee" signify the promise of enduring friendships and deep connections, as echoed in proverbs and the works of renowned poets.

The distinctive allure of Turkish coffee transcends its historical and cultural significance. It is a beverage for all times of the day, cherished irrespective of season, time, or societal

differences, embodying a universal appeal that bridges societies. From its origins in Ethiopia to its spread around the globe via the Ottoman Empire, coffee has become a beloved beverage in diverse cultures, each cultivating its coffee traditions and contributing new flavors to the global beverage scene. With its ancient preparation and presentation techniques, Turkish coffee continues gaining international acclaim, celebrated on social media and by celebrities worldwide.

Writing this article was a joyous endeavor, and I hope you find as much pleasure in reading it as I did in writing it. As we conclude, I encourage you, our esteemed readers, to explore the stories behind proverbs like "A cup of coffee commits one to forty years of friendship" and to reflect on coffee-centric poetry by our famous poets. In doing so, you will gain a deeper appreciation for Turkish coffee—not merely as a beverage but as a vital thread in our culture and human connections ■

Learn more about Arzum Okka here.

Murat Kolbaşı, a Marmara University business grad, began at Arzum Elektrik in 1988, eventually becoming general manager and Board Chairman. In 2008, he facilitated a 49% share transfer to Turkish Household Appliances B.V., bolstering Arzum's industry standing. His pivotal role in the 2013 sale of 49% to SDA International and successfully going public in 2020 underscore his dedication to elevating Arzum globally. Since 2015, as Chairman, Kolbaşı continues driving Arzum’s ascendancy in the global market.

ART + CULTURE

ANJELIKA AKBAR

A TURK IN HEART COMPOSER, PIANIST, WRITER, TV-MODERATOR

Anjelika Akbar's remarkable journey from a child prodigy to an acclaimed composer, with a deep love for Türkiye, highlights her extraordinary talent and her ability to inspire through music and words.

By Erol Güler

Anjelika Akbar, has more than 500 compositions for symphonic orchestra, chamber orchestra, choir, piano, and other instruments. She completed her education at the Composition Department of Tashkent State Conservatory. But her route to the conservatory was extraordinary. Her mother was a professional musician, and her father was a philosopher who also directed an orchestra. So, Akbar could already play the piano and read music at age two and a half. At the age of four, she was admitted to Uspkensky State Music School, a Soviet school for child prodigies. Perfect pitch is an auditory phenomenon characterized by a person's ability to identify or re-create a given musical note without the benefit of a reference tone. With this ability she drew the attention of the Moscow State Conservatory musicians. She continued her education at the

Tashkent division of the same school (Uspkensky State Music School- offering 11 yeareducation for gifted children). The unique trait of the school for gifted children was that lessons were taught by the most brilliant professors of the conservatory. She studied her 11-year-long piano and composition

education in classes with professors of the St. Petersburg State Conservatory. Then she entered Tashkent State Conservatory where she studied for 5 years. Akbar completed her education, studying composition, orchestration, the piano, and the organ. Russian (formerly USSR) Union of Composers has recognized Akbar as the “Best Young Composer.”

Akbar comes to Türkiye

She came to Türkiye as a member of UNESCO and continued her studies at Hacettepe Universities State Conservatory where she obtained a “Proficiency in Art” degree, which is the equivalent of doctorate for composers, in composition and orchestral conducting. She then decided to permanently stay in Türkiye and acquired Turkish citizenship.

Later on in the book she has published, İçimdeki Türkiyem (The Türkiye Inside Me) Akbar states: “The day I came to Türkiye was December 4th. For me this is a holiday! Whatever I

do, wherever I am; at home, with friends, on tour, in the studio, or on the concert stage, I celebrate that day as a holiday! I love celebrating the moment I set foot in Türkiye; and it makes me very happy to see that the new spiritual family I have found here is expanding by each passing year. Natural beauties and historical values exist in many parts of the world, but sincerity in the hearts I found in Türkiye is very valuable to me. USSR was the place where I was born and raised, but Türkiye is a place where I came later and fell in love as my new home. Even the people of Türkiye often do not know or see their true value. That's why I said at the beginning of my book The Türkiye inside Me: 'I am trying to make Turks love Turks.'"

When they understand their own value, they will also realize the value of the country and the country will fully recover. She concludes by saying: ”Deficiencies can occur anywhere in the world. But by approaching with self-respect and love, deficiencies will be diminished and mistakes will be corrected. I sincerely hope that Türkiye would come to the real place it deserves.”

Akbar recorded her first album “Su” (water), featuring her preludes in 1999. Altogether she released 15 albums, including the world's first solo piano adaptation of Vivaldi's "Four Seasons" violin concertos, released by Sony Music International, in 2002. This album happened to be the first Turkish Classical Music album, entering the Sony Classical Catalogue. "Youth Album" (Anjelika Akbar- Rosenbaum Album Pour La Jeunesse), consisting of 12 pieces composed for piano, was published as a notes-booklet by EMR Paris in France in 2006. Akbar was also granted many national and international awards; has given countless concerts in various countries of the world; and has implemented projects such as "Ayvazovsky's Istanbul" and "Picturesque Istanbul."

She prepared and presented the program "SESLER with Anjelika Akbar" on TRT-2 national TV channel for 3 years. Akbar, who has been invited in numerous TV and radio programs, also has books published by İş Bankası Kültür Yayınları, Kara Kedi Yayınları, İnkılap Kitabevi, and Destek Yayınları.

Recently, Akbar signed the album "Ahenk

432," which includes 11 pieces that she created after the February 6th, 2023, earthquake in Türkiye, which devastated the whole country and the world. She recorded this album with a frequency of 432 Hertz (Hz), which is the first work in this style in Türkiye. The album “Ahenk 432," published on September 29, 2023, was recorded with a vibration rate of 432 Hertz, which gives people more opportunities for their harmonious development and keeps the body closer to nature. In the middle of the 20th century though, the vibration rate of musical instruments was changed globally and increased to 440 Hz, and this "healing" frequency of 432 Hz was abandoned. Akbar hoped to help people, with the pieces she composed and the other pieces she selected specifically for this album, find harmonious emotions; feel the completeness in the music harmony; and finally find the strength to stand up for a brighter life on Earth, even if her contribution was in tiny pieces in these difficult times.

Akbar recently released her new single titled "BAŞLANGIÇ/BEGINNING 432" on December 29, 2023. The single titled "Başlangıç" (The Beginning), recorded with a piano tuned to 432 Hz, as in the Ahenk 432 album, is the continuation of the album in this sense. As we enter the New Year with Beginning 432, she wishes her listeners good feelings, healing, and happiness.

Akbar says. “I don’t believe in coincidences. Life brought me to Türkiye, I loved this country very much and I continue to serve here with my music and my books.”

I would like to thank Akbar, for holding a mirror to the Turks with her music, books, and intelligence, to help us see and improve ourselves. ■

Erol Guler, PhD, is the co-owner of GT Consultants LLC in Virginia. Previously, he was the co-owner of the ELC Group in Istanbul, Türkiye, for 20 years, which was acquired later by the global consulting engineering firm Royal HaskoningDHV. He has served as the principal geotechnical engineer to more than 200 projects in Türkiye and many different countries. He is also a retired professor from Bogazici University where he dedicated 37 years. Since 2017, he has served as an affiliate professor at George Mason University.

■ İçimdeki Türkiyem published by Türkiye İş Bankası Kültür Yayınları

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PRODUCT MARKET FIT

At the Founder Institute Accelerator in the DMV region, we empower pre-seed tech startups to scale and sustain. Our focus: building global connections, mastering market expansion, and securing product/market fit for success across diverse landscapes.

By Guclu Ozenci

Leading the Founder Institute Accelerator in the DMV region, my primary focus is on nurturing pre-seed-stage tech startups. We meticulously recruit high-potential founders, inviting them to join our intensive 14-week program, where we assist in building sustainable and scalable ventures. In the December issue, I delved into customer development, ensuring founders address real problems with paying clients. Now, I want to spotlight another key aspect: product market fit. Our monthly in-person tech meetups often connect international founders with mentors seeking advice on expanding into the US or other new geographies. While it might seem like their solutions could seamlessly fit into a different market, the reality is often different. Market conditions, culture, regulations, and client expectations can dramatically shift, emphasizing the importance of achieving "product/market fit." Andreessen Horowitz, a prominent player in venture capital, defines this fit as when "customers are buying the product just as fast as you can make it." For each market iteration, the product/market fit must be reevaluated. Over time, evolving needs may necessitate new functionalities or even a completely new solution, which is evident through sales metrics. As always,

I firmly believe that "sales solve everything." It proves that the right problem is addressed with the right solution, pricing, team, marketing, and support. International founders eyeing growth in the US face unique challenges due to the distinct market landscape, varying regulations, and diverse cultures, even within regions like the West Coast and East Coast. Navigating these challenges requires a tailored approach, as there is no universal recipe for growth and success. Soft-landing programs, acceleration initiatives, and coaching offerings abound to guide founders through this highly competitive market. Our focus is on helping international ventures land and grow in the dynamic East Coast US environment. Reach out for any techspecific questions, accelerator opportunities with the Founder Institute Accelerator (www.fi.co), or interest in attending our monthly founder meetup events. ■

Guclu Ozenci, a renowned technology entrepreneur, boasts a career marked by blending business needs with tech innovations. With roles at Cisco, HP, and Vodafone, he honed his adeptness in operations and relationship building. In 2013, he cofounded a B2B SaaS startup, leading it to a 2020 acquisition. Currently, as the managing director at the Founder Institute in Washington, DC, Ozenci focuses on aiding pre-seed startups. He is launching Axent Ventures, specifically supporting immigrant founders, by providing capital, networks, and expertise, reflecting his commitment to fostering entrepreneurial success. Learn more about Ozenci here.

IMAGE BY HISPANOLISTIC

DREAMS AS A TOOL FOR SELF-CONSCIOUSNESS

Dreaming, as William C. Dement observed, allows us a safe form of nightly insanity, revealing the deepest corners of our subconscious and guiding us through our innermost fears and desires.

By Melisa Gulsun Ozmen

William C. Dement, a pioneering sleep researcher, said in 1959, “Dreaming permits each and every one of us to be quietly and safely insane every night of our lives.” Dreams have always been an interest of mine because of their seeming insanity. I often write down as many of my dreams as I can remember and ponder their connections to my life experiences, challenges, wishes, feelings, and desires, if there are any. Psychology textbooks define a dream as an altered state of consciousness, a form of experience that departs significantly from the normal subjective experience of the world and the mind. Despite the existence of several psychological

theories developed to explain dreams, the most accurate understanding of a dream might be the one developed by self-conscious dreamers themselves since dreaming is one of the most intimate and private sides of human life.

Out of five stages of sleep in a night, we often dream during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage, which is characterized by rapid eye movements and a high level of brain activity. REM is the final stage of sleep just before awakening, and the mind is as active as it is when awake. At this stage, the pulse quickens, blood pressure rises, and there are signs of sexual arousal, but the body is very still except for rapid side-to-side eye movements. This is the only stage where we can remember our dreams after we wake up. Although many

people believe that they do not dream, 80% of people awakened during REM sleep report dreams. People believe they do not dream simply because they do not remember them.

The first theory to explain dreams was developed by the neurologist and the inventor of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud. To Freud, dreams represent wishes, and some of these wishes are so unacceptable, taboo, and anxiety-inducing that the subconscious mind can only express them in disguised form. Freud believed that many of these unacceptable wishes are sexual. He famously could interpret a dream of a train going into a tunnel as symbolic of sexual intercourse. However, this approach of interpreting most dreams as sexual desires was a bit narrow minded because any dream can have infinite potential

interpretations. Freud’s friend, colleague and intellectual heir, psychoanalyst Carl Gustav Jung brought a broader perspective to Freud’s approach on dreams and proposed that dreams are reflections of subconscious mind, but they are not necessarily caused by sexual desires. A late 20th century theory is Hobson and McCarley’s activation-synthesis model developed in 1977, which proposes that dreams are produced when the mind attempts to make sense of random neural activity that occurs during sleep. A more modern-day understanding of dreams can be found in social psychologist Daniel M. Wagner’s 2004 finding that dreams may not represent hidden wishes or reflections of the subconscious mind, but instead reflect suppressed and unwanted thoughts. That is why students often dream of missing tests and professors of forgetting their lectures. Suppose you dream of a bus driven through the living room window of your house the night before you are expecting a visit from an overbearing relative. Different approaches might have interpreted this same dream in many different ways. In the end, however, the most accurate interpretation might be your own interpretation of the dream if you have sufficient self-consciousness and awareness of the ongoing experiences in your life.

Dreams can be a guide presented in visual forms for you if you have enough self-consciousness and do not constrain your dreams to only one of the academic approaches. Dreams might reflect wishes, desires (sexual or not), as well as suppressed feelings and unexpressed thoughts in visual forms. In order to make sense of dreams, firstly, it is crucial to acknowledge their infinity and insanity. This does not mean they have no logic. They have their own language composed of symbols. Dreams can be understood logically if the meanings of the symbols in them are sought out by the dreamer and the scenes in a dream are divided and analyzed in pieces. The first step to analyzing a dream is writing it down in detail immediately after awakening before forgetting the details. Because colors, shapes, sounds, and smells may give a lot of clues about the meaning of a dream, they should all be noted.

The second step is to search for the meaning of the symbols for the dreamer, not the dictionary meaning of them. For example, for some people, the blue color might symbolize freedom, for some others, it may symbolize incarceration because, many years ago, they had to stay for a long time in a hospital that's walls were blue. For the train example above, some people may define a train ride as adventure and fun because they like traveling by train, but for some others it may be boring and feel like an obligation because they take the train to work every morning. The blue color and the train are symbols in the dream defining the feelings of the dreamer in relation to those symbols.

The third step is to split the scenes in a dream because they have no limits of time and space. You can teleport from one space and time to another immediately in your dreams. You may see yourself swimming in the sea in a city where there is no sea, or you may see your adult self in a house where your childhood passed but that does not exist anymore. Splitting time and places and searching for the meanings of those places and times for you is also crucial in rationalizing a dream.

The final step is to rewrite the dream after finding out the reciprocated meanings of the symbols, places, and times in your conscious mind. This last step connects the conscious meanings of your dreams with the events, feelings, thoughts, and challenges in your daily agenda. If you have recurrent dreams, they might be showing you a fear that is blocking you and should be overcome or something you need to change in your life. When you change the thing related to the recurrent dream, you will notice that you do not have that dream anymore. When dreams are interpreted and connected to real life situations, self-consciousness is developed

LIFE COACHING

about the situation, and after making a logical connection between the dream and that situation, the overwhelming feeling caused by that situation fades away.

The subconscious mind may try to give you a message about what you are experiencing or what you should do or change about something in your life. On the other hand, it might simply be trying to show your fears, feelings, desires, and wishes to become self-conscious of them through dreams. As a self-conscious person, what I have experienced in my personal life as I analyzed my dreams over the years is that Freud’s theory was right to some extent. But Jung, who claimed that dreams are reflections of the subconscious mind that are not necessarily caused by sexual desires, was right too. It is important to note that not every dream we have may be a product of the subconscious mind. The modern-day approaches proposing that dreams may reflect suppressed and unwanted thoughts or the brain trying to make sense of neural activity during sleep may also be valid to some extent as well as Freud’s and Jung’s theories. Some dreams have no functionality and are simply ordinary reflections of challenges or activities we face and perform during our daily lives. Strangely, we do not often remember those dreams that make no sense and have no significance in our lives. We only remember the ones that may help us to develop a consciousness about something significant for us. I believe that more than the message they give, remembrance of them is both the purpose and the magic of dreams in our lives. If they had no functionality on our life journey, we would never remember any of our dreams. ■

Melisa Gulsun Ozmen is an economics graduate with two decades in Turkish business. She relocated to the US in 2018, seeking personal growth. Immersed in a distinct culture, she discovered inner transformation’s paramountcy, inspired by Osho’s wisdom. This revelation led her to the Transformational Life Coaching Program, graduating in 2020 and cementing her life's purpose. Melisa is a lifelong learner and coach, continuously exploring political science, psychology, and astrology, while also illuminating her journey of self-discovery and enlightenment through perpetual learning. Learn more about Melisa and visit her blog.

ADVENTUROUS AT WORK IN AMERICA: MED SCHOOL, MATCH DAY, AND THE REAL WORLD

“Students graduate from the Med School with many talents unleashed, but they rarely graduate merely as just doctors." ― Anonymous

By Kitty Waldorf

Growing up, one of the few TV shows I was allowed to watch portrayed the lives of American physicians fitting, given my family of successful doctors. Though restrictions on my viewing habits sometimes felt frustrating, I now understand my parents' desire to carefully curate my connection to the outside world. I am particularly inspired by my mother who is the first woman in Türkiye to be appointed to medical leadership of any clinic yet alone a specialized law enforcement clinic. Her service to humanity in the same position for over 35 years shaped my own path of strategic communications in health, security, and defense. Despite being a female physician and a European immigrant in Türkiye, she overcame the challenges of a male-dominated field in a male-dominated organization. Her unwavering dedication paved the way for countless women in medicine who continue to shatter glass ceilings today.

March is a significant month for medical communities in the US and Türkiye. In Türkiye, March 14th commemorates the Medicine

Holiday, honoring the dedication of healthcare professionals nationwide. Meanwhile, medical school graduates in the US eagerly await Match Day, falling on the third Friday of March.

Match day marks the culmination of the residency application process, with students discovering where they will continue their medical training. Importantly, March also holds International Women's Day on the 8th, offering a chance to celebrate the achievements and ongoing contributions of women within medicine in both countries.

This month, I am taking a deep dive into the world of physicians in the US. I will share my findings about the steps, costs, and timeline involved in becoming a MD. We will explore the significance of Match Day and amortization of a Med School degree. By the end, you can decide if the reality of medicine in the nation lives up to those TV shows!

STEP 1: EDUCATION

To pursue medical school in the US, you will first need a bachelor's degree. While any major is acceptable, science-related fields like biology, chemistry, and physics provide

excellent preparation. Though not mandatory, pre-med coursework will help you excel on the challenging Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), typically in your junior or senior year of college. Then, medical school lasts four years and is divided into two phases: the first two years focus on classroom and laboratory work, covering core subjects like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, microbiology, and medical ethics. The final two years of medical school involve clinical rotations. Students gain hands-on patient experience across various medical specialties, working under the supervision of attending physicians. During this time, they also take the first part of the challenging United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). After graduation, prospective physicians enter a residency program lasting 3 to 7 years, specializing in their chosen field.

Average Medical School Tuition (per year) in 2022:

◗ Public Medical Schools (In-State Residents): Around $52,611

◗ Public Medical Schools (Out-of-State Residents): Around $65,325

PHOTO BY GOLUBOVY

◗ Private Medical Schools: Around $65,453 International students usually need to show proof of funding for four years of average medical school tuition, plus living expenses, books, equipment, fees, and exam costs. This can easily exceed a total of $350,000 that you have to show in your bank account. For this reason and especially because of the high currency exchange rate, many students from Türkiye are deciding to pursue their studies in Europe or in countries such as Jamaica.

[AAMC]

AVERAGE DEBT AFTER GRADUATING FROM MEDICAL SCHOOL

The median debt for medical school graduates in 2022 was around $200,000. This includes both pre-medical school debt and the debt accrued during medical school itself.

◗ The average disguises a broad range of debt burdens. Some graduates have far less debt, while others can have debt exceeding $300,000 or more.

◗ Debt levels can vary depending on the student's chosen specialty—those entering lower-paying fields might have higher debt because of longer residencies and later earning potential.

◗ Graduates of private medical schools tend to have higher average debt than those from public institutions.

[AAMC and Education Data Initiative]

WHAT IS MATCH DAY?

After medical school, US graduates seek residency programs for specialized training in fields like surgery, pediatrics, internal medicine, and more. The culmination of this process is Match Day when the results of the complex residency matching process are revealed. Through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), a sophisticated algorithm matches medical students with residency programs nationwide by considering the ranked preferences submitted by both students and programs, aiming to find the best possible fit for everyone involved.

On Match Day, medical schools thrum with a mix of nervous energy and anticipation.

The moment students tear open their results envelopes, the room erupts in a symphony of cheers, gasps, and perhaps a few quiet tears. Many prospective physicians got into the tradition of making Match Day videos and publishing on YouTube to demonstrate how rigorous and competitive the match and overall residency period is in the US before their Match Day,

By watching these videos, you can get all the feels about the state of the profession in the Nation and also see how talented and witty the prospective MDs in this country are.

What does the future hold for you in your medical journey?

Getting inspired with these three must-watch Match Day videos will fuel your determination!

1. A parody of Taylor Swift’s Blank Space created by Yale University Medical School Class of 2015

2. A parody of Bruno Mars Uptown Funk created by Upstate COM Class of 2015

3. A parody of Matchmaker from the Musical Fiddler on the Roof created by University of Chicago Pritzker SOM Class of 2016

The average salary for a medical intern (also known as a first-year resident) in the US is around $50,000–$60,000 per year. Important factors that influence salary are location, institution, and specialty.

[Medscape Resident Salary & Debt Report, Glassdoor, Indeed] There is no easy answer to how soon you can pay off medical school debt as a doctor in the US since medical school debt depends on many factors, including debt amount, income,

CAREERS

repayment strategy, and lifestyle choices. Although this seems like a complex calculation, possible timelines vary from 5 years to 25 years. There are loan forgiveness programs occasionally, but it is useful to note that the future interest will continue to accrue, extending the total timeline to pay off.

The median annual wage for physicians and surgeons across all specialties was $208,000 in 2022. Primary care physicians (family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics) generally have lower average salaries, often $200,000 –$270,000 annually. Specialists in areas like surgery, cardiology, radiology, or dermatology generally earn higher salaries, often $350,000 –$500,000+ annually.

[US Bureau of Labor Statistics]

Unfortunately, a significant gender pay gap exists in medicine, with women doctors earning less than their male counterparts across most specialties and settings.

On average, female physicians earn roughly 74 cents for every dollar earned by male physicians.

Despite the challenges inherent in the healthcare industry, becoming a physician remains among the most rewarding career paths. You will collaborate with brilliant, innovative colleagues from across the globe, earn widespread respect for your life-saving work, and have the potential to build a fulfilling life for yourself and your loved ones—especially with timely debt management.

From one medical family to another, I extend my warmest wishes for a joyous Match Day to all aspiring MDs and a heartfelt Medicine Holiday to our tireless healthcare heroes in Türkiye! The future looks bright with your dedication to serving humanity. ■

Kitty Waldorf is a self-excellence professional with more than 14 years of experience in MENA and US markets, focused on education, healthcare, and security and defense. She has been voted as the Best Life Coach of the Nation’s Capital since 2019. In 2023, she was named the Winner of the Best Life Coaching Category in Washington City Paper readers’ poll. Connect with Waldorf.

PHOTO BY UNSPLASH

DIVING INTO THE FUTURE:

THE WONDERS OF APPLE VISION PRO

Virtual reality is redefining the professional landscape, offering innovative solutions for learning, design, and therapy, and transforming how we engage with the world around us.

By Hürriyet Aydin Ok

Apple has always been at the forefront of revolutionizing how we interact with technology. The tech community has been buzzing with anticipation since it was rumored that Apple was building an Augmented Reality (AR) or Virtual Reality (VR) headset around 2016. Apple CEO Tim Cook hinted at the company's aspirations not just to enter the AR space but to dominate it by being the best, not necessarily the first. Well, the wait is officially over! Apple Vision Pro (AVP) is here, and it is not just another headset it is a gateway to a whole new dimension of computing.

WHAT IS APPLE VISION PRO (AVP)?

With the release of AVP in February 2024, the spatial computing era has truly dawned, ushering in a new wave of immersive experiences and possibilities.

What sets AVP apart from its predecessors and contemporaries, such as Meta Quest 3 and Varjo, is its seamless integration of AR and VR technologies, showing Apple's commitment to innovation. As a "Spatial Computing" device, AVP represents a paradigm shift in how we interact with digital content and our surroundings.

First time wearing an AVP, one can have the impression that it looks more like a Mac on thin air than a mere headset. However, its capabilities extend far beyond a computer or a mobile device such as iPhone or iPad. With intuitive hand, finger, and eye gaze interactions, users are transported into a world where the boundaries between the physical and digital realms blur.

THE AVP EXPERIENCE: A NEW WAY TO PLAY, LEARN, AND RELAX

Imagine throwing a video of the Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show against your wall and watching it transform into a 140” TV screen right before your eyes. Or perhaps you are in the mood for a quick mindfulness exercise; AVP has you covered with immersive experiences that transport you away from the chaos of daily life.

But that is just the beginning. With AVP, you can:

● Dive into your favorite books and magazines

in a whole new way.

● Browse the internet with a flick of your finger.

● Answer text messages and catch up on the news.

● Listen to music in surround sound and watch videos on a scale you have never imagined.

● Capture and relive memories with "spatial" 3D videos.

And for the cinephiles? Transform your living room into an IMAX theater with the AVP and the IMAX app, bringing cinematic grandeur right to your doorstep.

TRY BEFORE YOU BUY:

THE JOY OF A TEST DRIVE

Curious minds should seek out a demo at Apple Stores. They should also try Meta Quest 3 or Varjo, or any other similar headworn devices in the market. There is something magical about experiencing the blend of AR and VR firsthand, and it might convince you of these technologies' potential for personal use.

TECHNOLOGY

THE ROAD AHEAD: A CANVAS FOR CREATIVITY

The future of devices like the Apple Vision Pro is as boundless as the imagination of the creators who developed it. As spatial computing evolves, we will see a surge in applications designed for intuitive 3D interactions. From entertainment to education, the possibilities are endless. Consulting firms such as Virtual Reality Technology Universe (VRT-U) are ready to illuminate the path with their expertise for businesses looking to dive into spatial computing.

WRAPPING UP: A GLIMPSE INTO TOMORROW

The Apple Vision Pro is not just a product; it is a promise of what is to come. As we venture into the age of spatial computing, devices like AVP will become staples in our digital lives, transforming how we work, play, and explore the world around us. The future is here, and it is looking inspiring.

DISCLAIMER

AVP and similar headsets come with some disadvantages. They are heavy, can cause discomfort on your head and face, have a short battery life, and are expensive. They can induce motion sickness in some people. And they can invade the privacy of the users and the people around them.

Reference:

https://www.zdnet.com/article/7-reasons-why-people-are-returning-apple-vision-pro-according-to-reddit/ https://www.theverge.com/21077484/ apple-tim-cook-ar-augmented-reality

Hürriyet Aydin Ok is the Founder of VRT-U, LLC, a startup technology venture focusing on XR technologies. He is also a senior research fellow at GWU Cyber Security & Privacy Research Institute (CSPRI) and teaches courses in ecommerce security and augmented and virtual reality. Hürriyet was a member of the IT leadership team for over 24 years at the World Bank Group, and contributed in the areas of new technology infrastructure strategy and cybersecurity. Ok holds a PhD in computer science from the GWU, and MS and BS degrees from Hacettepe University, Ankara, Türkiye.

THE POWER OF PUBLIC RELATIONS IN THE US IN CRAFTING AN EFFECTIVE DIASPORA

PR is key in shaping diaspora communities' influence, fostering shared identities, and navigating socio-political challenges. In the US, it helps diverse groups like the Turkish diaspora to preserve their heritage while contributing significantly to society, showcasing the importance of strategic communication for impactful participation.

By Suheyla Tayla

In an increasingly interconnected world, the role of public relations (PR) in shaping the narrative, identity, and influence of diaspora communities has become more significant and essential than ever. Diasporas—the networks of people who live outside their native countries—are not just groups maintaining cultural ties; they are also dynamic bodies that can wield substantial social, economic, and political influence. Diasporas are unique in their composition and objectives. They often consist of individuals who, despite sharing a common origin, have diverse experiences and perspectives shaped by their host countries. This diversity

necessitates a nuanced PR approach in tapping the potential of the diasporas, enabling them to project their voices, safeguard their interests, and contribute meaningfully to their host and home countries.

The United States stands out as a vibrant mosaic of diaspora communities. It is home to many diaspora communities, each with its unique heritage and story. The power of PR in shaping these communities' narratives, identities, and influence in the US—where diverse diasporas contribute to the cultural, economic, and political landscape—has been instrumental in enhancing their visibility, cohesion, and impact. PR has primary roles in the context of US diasporas. In brief bullets, they are:

● It is a must for diaspora communities to have a sense of shared, collective identity. This is not about creating a monolithic image, but about highlighting common values and experiences that resonate across the diaspora. Effective PR campaigns can help articulate a collective vision, celebrate cultural heritage, and promote unity. This cohesive identity is crucial for diasporas to engage with their home countries and the US effectively.

● Diaspora communities in the US often face challenges related to representation, civil rights, and immigration policies. PR has been a critical tool in amplifying their voices, enabling them to articulate their concerns and aspirations. Through media

engagement, social and digital media campaigns, and collaboration with influencers and community leaders, PR professionals help these groups navigate the American political landscape, advocate for their rights, and influence policy decisions.

● The economic impact of diasporas in the US is immense, playing significant roles in sectors like technology, healthcare, entrepreneurship, the labor force, and international trade. PR strategies have highlighted these economic contributions and enhanced communities' reputations and influence.

● Regarding US politics, diasporas have used PR to mobilize voters, engage in advocacy, and influence elections and policymaking. The growing political clout of these communities is a testament to the effective use of PR in elevating their political voice.

● In times of international crises, such as conflicts or natural disasters in their countries of origin, diaspora communities in the US turn to PR for advocacy and support. These groups launch effective PR campaigns to garner international support, raise funds, and influence US foreign policy. The role of PR in these situations extends beyond crisis management; it involves shaping narratives and mobilizing resources for humanitarian causes.

● PR plays a vital role in promoting cultural exchange and fostering the integration of

diaspora communities in the US. By highlighting the cultural richness and contributions of these communities, PR initiatives not only help in building bridges of understanding and appreciation across diverse American demographics, thereby enriching the American cultural landscape but also combats stereotypes and prejudices.

Of course, the use of PR in diaspora communities faces challenges. Maintaining cultural identity with the pressures of assimilation, addressing internal diversity, and ensuring ethical communication are ongoing concerns. Effective and successful PR professionals navigate these complexities sensitively, ensuring their strategies do not inadvertently perpetuate stereotypes or create divisions within or outside the community.

In the intertwined and complex mosaic of diaspora communities in the United States, the Turkish diaspora stands out as a vibrant and dynamic group. With a lengthy historical background, Turkish Americans have established themselves as an integral part of the American cultural and socio-economic landscape. The Turkish diaspora in the US is a diverse community, encompassing a range of experiences, professions, and cultural backgrounds. Turkish Americans contribute to various facets of American life, from

academics and students to entrepreneurs and artists. For all diaspora communities, the primary role of PR, with the highlights listed above, is also valid for the Turkish diaspora in the US. It includes fostering a shared identity, amplifying voices, highlighting economic contributions, crisis management, cultural exchange, and integration. PR is crucial in bridging the Turkish diaspora and the broader American society.

In conclusion, the power of public relations in crafting an influential diaspora in the US is a multifaceted phenomenon and dynamic process. America's demographic landscape continues to evolve. Through strategic communication, PR helps diaspora communities maintain their cultural heritage and enables them to become an influential actor in the socio-economic and political arenas. PR remains crucial for the diaspora in this vibrant and diverse country. ■

For 30 years, Suheyla Tayla was a senior political strategist at the US Embassy in Ankara, advising 10 ambassadors through significant regional events, including wars and political upheavals. She held roles at the Anatolia News Agency and led the Embassy's Local Employees Association. Honored with multiple awards for her exemplary service, Tayla now serves as Vice President at Mercury Public Relations. An Ankara University alumna with advanced studies in International Law of the Seas, she is a revered figure in international relations.

BORDER CITY EDIRNE: A HUB OF CULTURE, ARCHITECTURE, AND MEDICAL INNOVATION IN THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE

Edirne embodies the rich Ottoman legacy through its stunning architecture and historical medical centers, showcasing a unique blend of cultural heritage and innovation.

By Nil Güler

Many years ago, we embarked on a beautiful trip to Edirne, a city rich in history and culture, located just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Istanbul. Our overnight stay allowed us to fully appreciate this bustling city, home to Türkiye's border gate Kapıkule. Positioned 7 km (4.3 mi) from the Greek and 20 km (12 mi) from the Bulgarian borders, Edirne served as the second capital of the Ottoman Empire. The city is adorned with elegant arched bridges over the Meriç and Tunca rivers, dating back to early Ottoman times.

Importance of Edirne in History

Founded by the Roman Emperor Hadrian,

Edirne, formerly known as Hadrianopolis or Adrianople, was the Ottoman capital from 1361 to 1453. It hosts numerous significant Ottoman monuments, highlighting its historical importance. The city experienced occupations by Russian troops in 1829 during the Greek War of Independence and in 1878 during the Russo-Turkish War. It also suffered a devastating fire in 1905 when it was home to about 80,000 people.

Genius Architect Sinan: Selimiye Mosque and Its Social Complex

The 16th-century Ottoman architect Sinan considered the Selimiye Mosque and its accompanying social complex, including madrasas, a covered market, and a library, as his masterpiece. The complex, recognized

for its architectural value and harmony, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2011. This innovative combination of public buildings around a mosque highlights a unique Ottoman tradition.

Health Museum Sultan Bayezid II Complex: A Center of Medical Treatment

The Sultan Bayezid II Complex, a 15th-century medical center, specialized in treating psychiatric patients and played a pivotal role in health services. It was known for its comprehensive care, including house visits by doctors and free medication for outpatients. The complex's innovative treatments included therapy with water sounds, music, aromatherapy, and handcraft therapy. The

■ The city is founded at the intersection of Tunca , Arda and Meric rivers. There is the Selimiye Mosque seen behind.

■ The third largest Synagogue in Europe.

PHOTO BY FGORGUN

smallpox vaccine administered here was introduced to England by Lady Mary Wortley Montagu.

Synagogue: A Testament to Tolerance

The third-largest synagogue in Europe, it serves as a symbol of the Ottoman Empire's tolerance, offering refuge to the Sephardi community in 1492. Rebuilt in 1907 after a fire in 1905, the synagogue stands as a testament to the empire's inclusivity.

Festivals

Edirne is celebrated for its festivals, including the 662-year-old Kırkpınar oil wrestling, the Kakava festival celebrated by the Romani people, the Bocuk Night, a festival of Balkan origin, and the Liver Festival, showcasing Edirne's culinary heritage with its famous liver fries.

Trakya University: A Beacon of Education

With a long tradition of education, especially in medicine, Trakya University leads expansion projects in the Balkans, making Edirne an attractive city for students.

Edirne's blend of cultural heritage,

■ 15th Century Health Museum. Healing with music.

architectural marvels, and medical advancements underline its significant role in the Ottoman Empire, making it a fascinating destination for history and culture enthusiasts. ■

Nil Guler, PhD, is a graduate of Robert College and Middle East Technical University in Türkiye where she got her BSc in civil engineering (METU) and her PhD in management from Istanbul University. She carried out extensive academic and administrative work in national and international fields together with her social work for students and women. She has over 100 scientific articles and papers. She took part in many international and national conferences as a speaker. In 2003, she became full professor. Between 2008 and 2015, she served as the Dean of Maritime Faculty of Istanbul Technical University. She retired as a professor from Istanbul Technical University Currently she is a partner in GT Consultants LLC.

■ Historic Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Competition for 662 years

PHOTO BY KENAN TALAS

■ Selimiye Mosque and Mimar Sinan

CAMPING IN HOT SPRINGS, NORTH CAROLINA

In unseasonably cold weather, after four years on the Bosphorous.

By Tara Alisbah

Several years ago, my son, Eden, and I sold our preschool in Yenikoy and returned to America to live near my parents in South Carolina. We moved from the crowds and concrete to a much less urban place, and we went on a camping adventure to connect to the land of our new home. We were amateurs, and this is our story.

As we darted across the footbridge with socks on our hands, I knew we were in trouble. I had spent the better part of the night either rubbing my limbs vigorously to create friction heat, hoping to be warm enough to sleep, or touching my son’s head and nose to make sure they were always a few degrees above the ice cube. I remembered Ibrahim's explanation of

tent construction from our summiting of the Kackar mountain range and the crucial layer of warmth that stuck between the tent and its outer cover to keep the tent warm, even when it was cold outside. As I rubbed my frozen limbs, waiting for sleep, I was sure my tent raising with Eden was somehow tragically faulty and that the inside and outside layers were touching each other in all kinds of naughty places, making the warmth bubble an impossibility and hastening our descent into fever and coughing.

Thankfully, with the cold preventing any sleep, I could hear the parade of animals passing outside our tent throughout the night. First, there was the animal that slowly made its way from the water's edge (next to which we had camped) to the bowl of broth I had spoon-fed

Eden and stuck outside the tent flap, knowing that what I did invited trouble but too cold to care about it. Then came the dog that panted its hot breath right near where my head lay next to the tent wall so that I imagined I could feel it is moving my hair and got shivers down my neck. I could only imagine he was after human meat since there was no food on his side of the tent. Then, minutes after the dog trotted off, two cats screeched at each other, presumably fighting over something we must have dropped during dinner or because the man-eating dog settled on them for dessert. Finally, and most frighteningly, came the lowmoaning growler. I do not know what it was. I do not know what it wanted. I only know that it was the stuff of nightmares, or maybe it was, in fact, a nightmare of my own creation. I had

REFLECTIONS FROM TÜRKİYE: A PERSONAL ODYSSEY

almost convinced myself that I had brought Eden to this remote area only to be torn apart, like so many bits of snow-cone, by the lowmoaning growler, a creature so hideous and so soulless that it defied naming. Wow, I felt like a bad parent!

Let me back up a bit. That soup, the one I spoon-fed Eden as he sat up in his sleeping bag? It took 3 hours to cook. When I placed the pot of freezing water on the camping grill, our friends had loaned us and noticed that the water temperature had not changed 10 minutes later, or 20, or 30, I realized that we were in a big adventure. We decided to light a fire instead, a campfire, and cook over that. So, I left the hot dogs and corn cooking on the grill I assumed was not working correctly, against Eden's warnings to turn it off, and went by car to the camp store half a mile away. That was the last time we drove the car for what might have been a long time. Since the car headlights served as our only means of light at our campsite (our 3 flashlights having mysteriously given up their lives just around dinner time), I abused them. I also really really wanted to listen to the radio and create the illusion that we were with other humans and going to be

okay. And that is the story of how I also killed the car battery. It somehow revived itself the next morning, thankfully, which was sadly not the case for the hotdogs left cooking on the grill against Eden’s better judgment. They were on fire, and the corn was almost entirely black, and I understood that a) Eden is more careful than I am, and b) that I was probably unconsciously tempting fate so we could go stay in a hotel for the night. Back at the store, they did not have charcoal, so they sent us to the Dollar General, a store we began to spend quite a bit of time at, partially because it was heated and partially because we were not equipped with anything required for camping. We bought lighter fluid and charcoal and matches. Two hours and lots of car magazines and lighter fluid later, Eden's mad fanning of the flame with our plastic plates successfully brought the coals to cooking temperature and I was able to boil water for soup at 10 pm. When I left Eden alone in the tent so I could look after the soup, he pleaded with me not to go and leave him, so I told him I would talk to him through the nylon walls and he would know I was right there. He was reading his book by flashlight, the only flashlight that worked of the

three we brought, and that one was fading fast and dollar stores were long since closed, and night was long since dark. Fifteen minutes later, after I had heard the first stirrings of the water creature feet from our tent flap, I was asking him to talk to me. "But I'm reading," he'd said. "Well, I just want to hear your voice," I pleaded in a non-pleasing tone. "Then how about if I read to you?" Perfect. My little genius boy read to me from the Magic Tree House series while I boiled his noodles, inches from the water creature and the great unknown.

(The next day, or 2 days later, I do not remember the exact timing, he turned to me and said he now knew why I had wanted him to talk to me: because I was scared. Yes, my boy is smart.)

The car thermometer showed 39 degrees a couple of hours after the sun came up the following day. We put all our clothes on, layer by layer, socks on our hands, and walked to the outdoor outfitters, the most expensive store in town. Lots of money later, we had a pocket-size camp stove that boiled water enough for two bowls of ramen noodles in 8 minutes, winter hats, long underwear, glove liners, and sweaters for me; Eden bought

REFLECTIONS FROM TÜRKİYE: A PERSONAL ODYSSEY

himself a hiking backpack with built-in CamelBak and warm socks we would never take off again. By then, it was noon, and we had not hiked anywhere yet. Wait, it gets better! We took a rudimentary trail map, dropped our loot off at camp, made Zeytin ezmesi sandwiches (olive paste), and set off on our adventure. But we could not find the Appalachian Trail. I know it crosses seven states, but we could not find it. I know the sidewalk through town is part of it, but we could not find the rest. So we hiked down by the river for a while, took a wrong turn up a forest path that led to someone's house and two big barking dogs that Eden fended off with a fat walking stick, and back down under a bridge to the trail we had known was there but had not wanted to take until the next day.

Wait, it gets better. We had met two older couples with the serious walking ski poles I saw everywhere in the Kackar mountains, so we asked them where they were coming from. They told us about a steep trail that had to switch back on itself constantly, so when the river trail we started on seemed too tame and thus wrong, we backed up and picked a blue diamond trail and crawled up it on our hands and knees. Eden panicked. I panicked quietly.

We threw our walking sticks to the winds and used both hands, feet, and knees. It was sheetrock with those little bits that break off as you touch them and tumble down onto the person below, called scree.

Somehow, we got off it onto a dirt trail, still steep but not so scary, that led to the correct one: Lover’s Leap Loop.

The hot springs brought us to Hot Springs, so we spent time each day in a rented hot tub. Eden called it our spa time—he loved it. He told me to return when I have a boyfriend because it is a romantic place! Right after we set up camp the first night, we had a “Spa” from 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm. The second night, from 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm, in the dark—they lent us wood for a real fire, and we became quite expert. On the third night, we skipped the spa and drove back to Hilton Head with pizza in our laps!

On the last day, we went to a new hiking area, a national park, and spent about 10 minutes discussing the merits of hiking in an area with pictures of big bears embroidered with the word “Danger” hanging everywhere. Eden’s trepidation won out, and we decided to hike Lover’s Leap again. This time, it was the right way, and he said it was the best hike he had

ever had. His fears were strangely confirmed when we overheard a large girl in camouflage discussing the size of the paw print of the bear she had felled just hours before. “You could lay your hat in it,” she had boasted. She was holding an adorable puppy then, which shows that you can not judge a bear killer by her choice of pets.

On that last, safe hike, Eden also found a new friend, a little praying mantus who stayed on his hand for most of the hike and then on his backpack for the ride home. He must be somewhere in the car now. Eden named him Peanut George Bob. We are already planning our next trip and have not been able to have a meal inside since we got back. Even Chinese takeout was consumed in the backyard. ■

Tara Alisbah

www.taraalisbah.com Mother of Eden, Turkish Language and Culture Expert, Eden’s Garden International Pre-School Founder and Director, Linguist, Medicine Woman, Writer, Author, Priestess and Guardian of Sacred Lands, Mermaid, Dragon Master, Sacred Disruptor, MA from Johns Hopkins SAIS, Middle East Expert, World Bank Faith and Development Dialogue consultant, Magnetizer.

GALLIPOLI BOOKS

Gallipoli: Ottoman Campaign, published in 2020, and Gallipoli: Command Under Fire, published in 2015, both by

Edward J. Erickson

By Oya Bain

Erickson's works stand as a testament to the oft-overlooked valor of the Turkish soldiers and the strategic acumen of Mustafa Kemal, offering a rare glimpse into the Gallipoli campaign from the perspective of the victors.

The Gallipoli War (February 19, 1915, to January 9, 1916) ended with an Ottoman-Turkish victory. Many books on the Gallipoli War have examined the causes of the Allies' defeat. Rarely is credit given to the Turkish army and the leadership of the young Mustafa Kemal. The two books mentioned below are the first to describe the Gallipoli War from the perspective of the winning side. Please review Gallipoli: Command Under Fire. It is a "What if" lamentation of the Allies' defeat in the Gallipoli War and the Turkish victory. This lamentation is reflected in many books written

Gallipoli: Command Under Fire

by Edward J. Erickson

Mar 20, 2015

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The Gallipoli campaign, unique in World War I for its modern amphibious assault and multinational operations, unfolded near the ruins of Homer's Troy, blending history with the art of war. This strategic endeavor, full of "what ifs," aimed to end the war early under Allied terms, potentially saving millions of lives, preventing the Russian Revolution, and avoiding the Treaty of Versailles' repercussions. However, its failure left it as a monumental "what if" scenario. This study shifts focus from personal narratives to the operational and strategic decisions that shaped this critical episode, providing a comprehensive view of the military strategies at play in Gallipoli.

on Gallipoli by either omitting or providing scant coverage of the heroism and sacrifices of the Turkish soldiers and their leaders, specifically Mustafa Kemal. For the Turkish reader, the "What if" review almost hints at a covert regret at the repudiation of the Treaty of Sèvres. What is also uniformly and deliberately left out in Western media and literature is that during the time the Allies landed in Gallipoli on April 25, 1915, Russian armies were invading the eastern Ottoman provinces, with the help of local Armenians sabotaging the Ottoman army. On May 23, 1915, well-organized Armenian insurgents seized the city of Van and assisted the Russian military in its capture. One must remember that before entering World War I 1914–1918), the Ottoman armies had been fighting the Balkan Wars 1912–1913). The Turkish victory in Gallipoli must be considered within the context of the ongoing attacks on the Ottomans on multiple fronts, especially during 1915. ■

Gallipoli: The Ottoman Campaign

by Edward J. Erickson

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Edward Erickson's book offers a unique Ottoman perspective on the Gallipoli campaign, spotlighting the historic victory of the Ottoman Army over Allied forces in 1915. This indepth study delves into the Ottoman Army's structure, tactics, and the strategic conduct of its commanders, providing a critical counterpoint to the predominantly Alliedfocused narratives of Gallipoli. Erickson's work, celebrated for its engaging analysis and contribution to Great War scholarship, is a must-read for those interested in the Middle Eastern theater of World War I and offers an essential reevaluation of one of the war's most pivotal battles.

A TASTE OF TURKISH CUISINE

CABBAGE LEAVES STUFFED WITH RICE

ZEYTİNYAĞLI

LAHANA SARMASI

By Sheilah Kaufman

Ingredients

● 1 cup uncooked medium-grain white rice

● 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

● 1 pound onions, finely chopped

● 4 tablespoons pine nuts

● 4 tablespoons currants, washed

● 2 teaspoons sugar

● 3 tablespoons salt

● 1/2 teaspoon pepper

● 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

● 1/2 bunch Italian parsley, washed and finely chopped with stems

● 1/2 bunch dill, washed and finely chopped with stems

● 2 teaspoons dried mint

● 3 small cabbages (1 1/2 pounds each)

● 1 onion, sliced

● 1 lemon, peeled and sliced crosswise

minutes, stirring. Then add currants, sugar, 2 teaspoons of the salt, pepper, allspice, parsley, dill, and mint, mixing well. Add 1 cup of water, cover, and simmer until all the water is absorbed. Set aside to cool.

● With a sharp knife cut out the cores of cabbages.

● In a large 6- to 8-quart pot, boil 4 quarts of water with 6 teaspoons salt, and drop in a cabbage. Turn it periodically and push it down with a spoon. Cook the cabbage 10 minutes, stirring and separating the leaves. Remove the leaves and place them in a large pot of cold water. Repeat with the other cabbages. Drain the cabbages. Trim 1 inch from the bottom of each leaf and carefully slice off pieces from the thick ribs without cutting the leaf.

● Place the ribs facing down on the work surface and place a tablespoon of rice filling along the bottom edge of every leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll up the leaf. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling. If the leaves are large cut them vertically. Save any torn or unused leaves. Place some of the extra leaves on the bottom of a large sauté pan, add sliced onions, and place the rolled cabbage on the onions. When the first layer is done you can make a second layer and a third layer if necessary. Place lemon slices on the last cabbage layer. Cover the stuffed cabbage with any remaining leaves. Pour on 2 cups of water, 1 teaspoon salt, and oil. Place a plate upside down on the rolled leaves to weigh them down.

● Bring water to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 45 to 50 minutes. Set aside. When cool enough, refrigerate. Serve cold the next day with lemon quarters.

● Makes 50 to 60 pieces

● Serves 8 to10

If you're ready, let us see together how to make cabbage rolls, one of the most delicious recipes with olive oil.

● 1 teaspoon salt

● 1/4 cup olive oil

Garnish

● Lemon quarters

● Soak the rice in water for about 10 minutes then drain well and set aside.

● In a saucepan heat the oil, add the onions, and sauté about 10 minutes on medium heat, constantly stirring. Add the rice and pine nuts and sauté another 5 to 6

Sheilah Kaufman is the author of 28 cookbooks and is a popular lecturer for organizations and clubs around the country (including the Library of Congress, The National Book Festival, Epcot, the Textile Museum, the Turkish Embassy, diplomatic groups, and senior residential centers). Cookbook topics include culinary histories, some with tastings (like her popular History of Chocolate), and other histories (such as the history of words, phrases, and nursery rhymes). Kaufman and Paula Jacobs edit and proofread cookbooks, novels, and websites; they test recipes; and more.

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DID YOU KNOW?

CAPITAL

OF TÜRKIYE. IT WAS DECLARED THE CAPITAL IN 1923 WHEN THE REPUBLIC OF TÜRKIYE WAS FOUNDED.

ISTANBUL TUNNEL:

THE WORLD'S SECONDOLDEST UNDERGROUND RAILWAY, THE TUNNEL, OPENED IN 1875 IN ISTANBUL, IS A SHORT BUT HISTORIC SUBWAY LINE CONNECTING THE QUARTERS OF KARAKÖY AND BEYOĞLU.

TULIPS ORIGIN: CONTRARY TO POPULAR BELIEF, TULIPS ORIGINATED FROM TÜRKIYE, NOT THE NETHERLANDS.

CULINARY DIVERSITY: TURKISH CUISINE IS RENOWNED WORLDWIDE, OFFERING A RICH VARIETY OF DISHES, INCLUDING KEBABS, BAKLAVA, AND TURKISH DELIGHT. TURKISH COFFEE, RECOGNIZED FOR ITS UNIQUE PREPARATION, SERVING, AND CULTURAL IMPORTANCE, WAS ADDED TO UNESCO'S INTANGIBLE CULTURAL HERITAGE LIST IN 2013.

BOSPHORUS BRIDGE: THE BOSPHORUS BRIDGE IN ISTANBUL IS ONE OF THE WORLD'S LARGEST SUSPENSION BRIDGES AND SYMBOLIZES THE CONNECTION BETWEEN EUROPE AND ASIA.

TURKISH LANGUAGE: THE TURKISH LANGUAGE UNDERWENT A SIGNIFICANT TRANSFORMATION IN 1928, WHEN ATATÜRK INTRODUCED THE LATIN ALPHABET, REPLACING THE ARABIC SCRIPT, AS PART OF HIS MODERNIZATION EFFORTS.

ANCIENT CITY OF TROY: THE LEGENDARY CITY OF TROY, IMMORTALIZED BY HOMER IN THE ILIAD, IS LOCATED IN THE NORTHWEST OF TÜRKIYE. EXCAVATIONS HAVE REVEALED NINE DIFFERENT CITIES BUILT ON TOP OF EACH OTHER OVER THE YEARS.

MOUNT ARARAT: THE LEGENDARY RESTING PLACE OF NOAH'S ARK, MOUNT ARARAT, IS TÜRKIYE'S HIGHEST PEAK, STANDING AT 5,137 METERS (16,854 FEET).

CITY: CONTRARY TO COMMON BELIEF, ANKARA, NOT ISTANBUL, IS THE CAPITAL

PHOTO BY GOGOSVM

IMAGE BY ORNA FROM PIXABAY

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