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A well-preserved, priceless marble head of Octavius Augustus – part of a sculpture from the early Roman period – and a small torso were excavated Friday at Stobi archaeological site, which was visited by Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski together with Culture Minister Elizabeta Kanceska-Milevska and the director of the Department for Cultural Heritage Protection, Pasko Kuzman.

According to its features, the sculpture was intended to immortalize emperors and notable citizens from the first and second century A.D. It was housed in a temple, which was robbed soon after it was demolished in the classical era.

Minister Kanceska-Milevska said that this year’s activities at 20 archaeological sites were finances with 180 million denars (3 million euros).

- It is important that the site was turned into a national institution with employees, aiming to become a tourist attraction to promote cultural heritage, said the Minister.

From: macedoniaonline.eu

Greece should face the reality and recognize the existence of a Macedonian state and a Macedonian nation, said Tuesday President Gjorge Ivanov regarding Greek remarks on Macedonia’s decision to preside over the CoE Committee of Ministers under name “Macedonian Presidency 2010″.

“The Council of Europe has its principles as an international organization, whereas Macedonia as chair-country will contribute to the Council reforms. Every member-state has the right to challenge something”, said Ivanov following the opening of the 13. Macedonian Students Games in Ohrid.

Asked if Greece’s remark clearly demonstrates the country’s stance of refusing to recognize Macedonian identity, President Ivanov stressed this is a problem that has burdened bilateral relations for two decades, adding Athens should finally accept reality.

He expects UN envoy Matthew Nimetz to schedule a new round of talks by the month-end.

“We expect Nimetz to brief countries’ negotiators Jolevski and Vassilakis. Now is a sensitive period and we expect to see what is offered on the table”, said Ivanov.

Macedonian Canadian Steven Stamkos joined an elite group of NHL goal scorers and his biggest fan was in the stands to see it.

The No. 1 overall pick in the 2008 draft became the third-youngest player to score 50 goals in a season, and he scored the only goal in the shootout to lead Tampa Bay to a 4-3 victory over the Florida Panthers in the Lightning’s home finale Saturday night.

Stamkos’ father was in attendance, adding to the excitement of the night for the forward.

Though Ed Jovanovski is a great player, it is rather unlikely another Macedonian Canadian/American can achieve what Steve has done in the NHL.

I would like everyone to see Macedonia through my eyes, because my vision is cosmopolitan. Let this small, but beautiful country live for all times, said singer Esma Redzepova-Teodosievska, who was decorated Tuesday by President Gjorge Ivanov with Order of Merit for Macedonia, an award long overdue.

“Through her authenticity and perfect vocal performance, Esma has promoted Macedonian and Roma music worldwide, becoming a striking international name in music”, said President Ivanov.

According to him, the order is presented to Redzepova-Teodosievska for the affirmation of Macedonia, her musical grandeur and charity work.

“Today’s ceremony is held only two days prior to April 8-World Roma Day. The Roma community is an integral part of Macedonian society. Esma is one of the leading individuals in the efforts for improvement of the social and economic situation of Roma. Esma is an example of toppling barriers when it comes to talent, will and perseverance”, stressed Ivanov.

Dubbed by many as ‘Roma Queen’, Esma Redzepova-Teodosievska said the order belonged to the people, because she would not have achieved the success if it hadn’t been for them.

“This is a recognition for all citizens, all nationalities living in the Republic of Macedonia”, she added.

Esma Redzepova-Teodosievska (1943) was born in Skopje. She won the first award at a Radio Skopje singing contest at the age of 11. Afterwards, she began to work with the orchestra of Stevo Teodosievski, performing for nearly 30 years.

Following their marriage, Esma and Stevo raised 47 children and held more than 2,000 humanitarian concerts. Esma and Teodosievski ensemble released 108 singles, 20 albums, 15 CDs etc. At the 1976 inaugural edition of “Festival of Roma Music and Song” in Chandigarh, India, she was officially proclaimed queen of Roma music. She is a laureate of a number of other awards and recognitions.