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ïêàëíéë ÇéëäêÖë! CHRIST IS RISEN! HE KRAINIAN EEKLY T PublishedU by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal non-profitW association Vol. LXXVI No. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 $1/$2 in Bush to visit Three convicted in 2000 murder of Gongadze by Illya M. Labunka department. His whereabouts are Popovych and Kostenko, claimed they Ukraine on eve Press Bureau unknown, although recent reports have were following the orders of their , surfaced that suggest he may be in hiding namely Gen. Pukach. Messrs. Popovych KYIV – The Kyiv Court of Appeals on in Israel. and Kostenko both claimed that they had of NATO summit March 15 convicted three former police All three convicted officers admitted no intention of actually killing Gongadze, officers of Ukraine’s Ministry of Internal involvement in the Gongadze slaying but but aimed only to frighten him. PARSIPPANY, N.J. – President George Affairs of carrying out the 2000 murder of W. Bush will visit Ukraine on March 31- claimed that Gongadze was actually stran- Furthermore, the two admitted they were 31-year-old investigative journalist not aware of Gongadze’s true identity until April 1, it was announced in both Heorhii Gongadze. gled to death by Gen. Pukach. Washington and Brussels on March 13. During the trial Mr. Protasov denied the after they were both exposed to media The long-anticipated verdict ended a reports identifying the slain journalist. President Viktor Yushchenko of trial, plagued by continuous delays and allegation that the murder of Gongadze Ukraine told reporters in Brussels on adjournments, that had begun only on was premeditated. He, as well as Messrs. (Continued on page 9) March 13 that President Bush will visit January 9, 2006. Mykola Protasov was Ukraine just before the NATO summit in sentenced to 13 years in prison, while his Bucharest. co-defendants, Oleksander Popovych and According to RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Valerii Kostenko, both received sentences Service, President Yushchenko said he Rada approves draft law on Cabinet of 12 years. intends to discuss with President Bush According to the presiding judge, Iryna Ukraine’s possible membership in NATO Hryhorieva, the sentences of Mr. Protasov and bill on pre-term elections in Kyiv and bilateral relations. and Mr. Kostenko actually date back to “There is still a lot of work to be done February 2005, while Mr. Popovych’s sen- by Illya M. Labunka (PRU) and the Communist Party of about negotiations with different coun- tence began on the day of his conviction. Kyiv Press Bureau Ukraine (CPU) abstained from voting. tries” regarding Ukraine’s NATO bid, Following the conviction, the panel of President Yushchenko submitted the Reuters quoted Mr. Yushchenko as saying. KYIV – Ukraine’s Parliament voted on judges requested that Internal Affairs bill on the Cabinet of Ministers to “We are not speaking about joining Minister Yurii Lutsenko strip Mr. March 18 to approve the first draft of a Parliament in an effort to roll back the NATO today. ...There were cases of coun- Protasov of his police colonel’s rank, Mr. bill aimed at strengthening President changes to the existing law on the tries that were part of the Membership Popovych of his major’s rank and Mr. Viktor Yushchenko’s authority at the Cabinet that had been adopted on Action Plan for three, five, eight years,” Kostenko of his colonel’s rank. The con- expense of the government. The draft December 21, 2006, when Yulia the Ukrainian president added. victed officers also will not be able to law on the Cabinet of Ministers received Meanwhile, in Washington, the Office Tymoshenko and then-Prime Minister seek government employment once they 246 favorable votes out of a possible 449 had joined forces to of the White House Press Secretary registered lawmakers who were present announced on March 13 that “The presi- serve their sentences and are released. override President Yushchenko’s veto The three convicted former officers and eligible to cast their ballots in the power. dent and Mrs. [Laura] Bush will travel to Verkhovna Rada. Ukraine, Romania and Croatia in April were members of the Internal Affairs The changes, originally tailored for the The bill was supported by the Our 2008 to support the advance of freedom Ministry’s Department of External Yanukovych government, allowed the Ukraine People’s Self Defense (OU-PSD) and democracy and to strengthen the Surveillance and Criminal Intelligence. coalition to appoint the ministers of NATO alliance to confront 21st century An international arrest warrant is still bloc, the Yulia Tymoshenko Bloc (YTB) defense and foreign affairs if the presi- outstanding for another suspect, Gen. and the Volodymyr Lytvyn Bloc. The (Continued on page 14) Oleksii Pukach, the former head of the deputies of the Party of the Regions (Continued on page 9)

Ukrainian Canadian University Students’ Union convenes 50th congress by Adriana Luhovy anniversary of the Famine-Genocide. He then thanked his hard-working exec- – The 50th anniversary utive members, particularly Andrij Popiel of Ukrainian Canadian University Students’ the University, of and Adriana Union congress was held in Montreal on Luhovy of for all February 2-4, with delegates representing their efforts in helping to organize the 50th 10 Ukrainian student clubs from across congress. . The delegates attending were very He continued by emphasizing the impor- pleased with the program and the overall tance of SUSK as a national coordinating organization of the congress. A range of student body across Canada with its poten- topics was discussed and workshops were tial for contributing to and influencing conducted helping to form a program for change within existing Ukrainian Canadian the future of SUSK (the union’s Ukrainian- organizations, and the need to be active based acronym) regarding issues of importance to Ukrainian The three-day 50th congress was offi- Canadians and to become involved with cially opened by SUSK President Artem projects in Ukraine. Luhovy, who welcomed all the student-del- Among the invited speakers at the con- egates to McGill University. He thanked gress were Evhen Czolij, first vice-president Pavlo Horbal and Pavlo Grod, both past of the Ukrainian World Congress, who out- Delegates at the 50th Congress of the Ukrainian Canadian University Students’ presidents of SUSK, for helping to revive lined the work of the UWC and noted how Union (SUSK). SUSK in October 2007 at the 22nd triennial SUSK relates to this world body; Michael congress of the Ukrainian Canadian Bociurkiw, former president of SUSK, now Congress, which had a record number of working for UNICEF in New York, who tural activism. 40th anniversary of the SUSK publication youth delegates. spoke about the growing AIDS epidemic in Ms. Hrycenko gave an overview of past called Student. A 10-panel exhibit of past During the official SUSK Congress Ukraine and made suggestions as to what SUSK activities and stated, “Where there is issues of Student was organized in the main opening, the president asked the students to can be done to try and stop it; and Zorianna a will and a willingness to become active, session hall of McGill’s SSMU Building. stand for one minute of silence in memory Hrycenko, a former SUSK board member much can be accomplished and lifelong Guest speaker Prof. Roman Serbyn, the of the over 7 million deliberately starved to and activist, who focused on the history of friendships can be made.” first editor of Student, outlined its origins death in 1932-1933 to mark the 75th SUSK and its political, community and cul- The SUSK congress also celebrated the (Continued on page 8) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 No. 12 ANALYSIS NEWSBRIEFSNEWSBRIEFS

Future Russian Prime Minister Putin Ukraine sends second request to NATO into corruption allegations, RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service reported. Mr. insists on still being heard on NATO KYIV – President Viktor Yushchenko Yushchenko also approved the appoint- and Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko ments of members of a committee that will have sent another request to NATO by Pavel Felgenhauer Mr. Putin plans to be present at the assess whether Mr. Chernovetskyi has Secretary-General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer Eurasia Daily Monitor NATO summit next month in Bucharest, failed to fulfill his duties or directives from for Ukraine to be given a Membership the president or the Cabinet of Ministers, or Romania. In the run-up to the summit, the Action Plan at the NATO summit in During a March 8 press conference with Kremlin is moving from anti-NATO rheto- violated the Constitution or the law. The visiting German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Bucharest in April, RFE/RL’s Ukrainian president ordered the head of the commit- ric to possible anti-NATO action. At the Service reported on March 17. Mr. Russia’s outgoing President Vladimir Putin March 8 press conference, Mr. Putin stated, tee, Vice Prime Minister Ivan Vasiunyk, to expressed his acute annoyance with Yushchenko and Ms. Tymoshenko also report on the committee’s findings by “The overwhelming majority of Ukrainians have asked German Chancellor Angela Western policies over Kosovar independ- do not want their country to join NATO, but March 28. Mr. Chernovetskyi asked the ence, NATO expansion, Afghanistan and Merkel and French President Nicolas president to conduct an independent inves- their country is being pulled in nonethe- Sarkozy to support Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic Western criticism of internal Russian poli- less,” a trend the Kremlin considers “unde- tigation into the activities of the Kyiv city cies. Chancellor Merkel sounded a positive aspirations. Germany and France recently administration and to remove him from the mocratic.” Mr. Putin insisted that the expressed skepticism that there is sufficient note, emphasizing cooperation and dia- Ukrainian and Georgian peoples – not their post for the period of the probe. (RFE/RL logue. She “assumed” that Russian support in Ukraine for NATO membership. Newsline) ruling elite – must decide to be part of The first request to Mr. de Hoop Scheffer President-Elect Dmitry Medvedev will rep- NATO. resent Russia (“be physically present”) at was sent in mid-January by President PM demands early Kyiv elections Mr. Putin stated that the endless expan- Yushchenko, Prime Minister Tymoshenko the next G-8 summit in Japan in June, while sion of NATO is “not only unnecessary, but KYIV – Prime Minister Yulia Mr. Putin, by then prime minister, “will be and Verkhovna Rada Chairman Arseniy harmful and counterproductive.” Mr. Putin Yatsenyuk, and triggered a crisis in the Tymoshenko said on March 16 that her thinking about us.” Ms. Merkel undoubted- accused the West of attempting to replace party will not participate in meetings of the ly wants to have a good working relation- Ukrainian Parliament that lasted for over a the United Nations with NATO. As a result, month. (RFE/RL Newsline) Verkhovna Rada until the Parliament ship with Mr. Putin in his new capacity. according to Mr. Putin, “The potential for adopts a resolution on early elections for Mr. Putin responded angrily, “Dmitry conflict will only grow.” Cabinet seeks mayor’s dismissal Kyiv’s mayor and city council, RFE/RL’s Anatolyevich Medvedev is freed from the He admitted, “These are arguments of a Ukrainian Service reported. Ms. KYIV – Ukraine’s Cabinet of Ministers task of having to prove his liberal views, but philosophical nature. You can agree or dis- Tymoshenko said that her bloc will not on March 12 asked President Viktor I can tell you that he is just as much a agree.” Then came the punch line. Mr. Putin attend the parliamentary session on March Yushchenko to dismiss Kyiv Mayor Leonid Russian nationalist in the good sense as I announced, “NATO is already overstepping 18 unless a resolution on early elections in Chernovetskyi, RFE/RL’s Ukrainian am. I don’t think our partners will find him its limits today. We have no objection to the capital is the “first issue on the agenda.” Service reported. Prime Minister Yulia any easier to deal with” (www.kremlin.ru, helping Afghanistan, but it is another matter Anna Herman of the opposition Party of Tymoshenko accused the leadership of the March 8; Kommersant, March 11). when it is NATO that is providing the assis- the Regions suggested that Ms. city administration of corruption. “The situ- In the official English translation of tance. This is a matter beyond the bounds of Tymoshenko is threatening to block ation that has been emerging for a long Putin’s statement, the phrase “Russian the North Atlantic, as you are well aware.” Parliament because the coalition “is not nationalist” was replaced by “Russian patri- time in Kyiv is perceived by average Kyiv sure whether it will gather the required In late 2001, during the U.S.-led offen- residents as corruption and absolute neglect ot.” Mr. Putin is fluent in German and sive in Afghanistan to overthrow the votes for the approval of the government’s speaks good English. He used the term of Kyiv’s interests,” Ms. Tymoshenko said. program” that was scheduled for considera- Taliban regime, Moscow approved the An interdepartmental working group, creat- “Russian nationalist” apparently knowing deployment of Western forces and use of tion on March 18. (RFE/RL Newsline) what it means in foreign languages as well ed by the Cabinet of Ministers to investi- bases in Central Asia, provided military gate the Kyiv city administration, has Baloha warns of new Rada crisis as in Russian. Thus, he was sending a clear hardware to the anti-Taliban Northern message to the Russian public and the West revealed large-scale violations of regula- Alliance in Afghanistan and allowed over- tions in the granting of plots of land. Mr. KYIV – Presidential Secretariat Chief that the election of Mr. Medvedev will not Viktor Baloha said on March 17 that the begin any pro-Western liberalization. (Continued on page 14) Chernovetskyi, who was expected to attend the Cabinet meeting, did not appear. In a demand by the Yulia Tymoshenko Bloc letter sent to Prime Minister Tymoshenko, (YTB) for the dismissal of Kyiv Mayor he described the Cabinet’s discussion of Leonid Chernovetskyi poses “a real risk of Kyiv local issues as “a farce” staged for a repetition of the recent paralysis in Germany torpedoes Ukrainian, Georgian political purposes rather than an attempt to Parliament’s work,” RFE/RL’s Ukrainian uncover the truth. (RFE/RL Newsline) Service reported. Prime Minister Tymoshenko recently announced that her goals for NATO Membership Action Plans President suspends Kyiv mayor bloc will boycott the Verkhovna Rada until it adopts a resolution on early elections for by Vladimir Socor “Countries that are involved in regional KYIV – President Viktor Yushchenko on Kyiv’s mayor and city council. Mr. Baloha March 13 issued a decree suspending Kyiv Eurasia Daily Monitor or internal conflicts cannot become suggested that the issue of Kyiv’s local members [of the alliance],” she stipulat- Mayor Leonid Chernovetskyi for 15 days With only three weeks remaining for ed, in a chilling “no” to Georgia. in connection with an official investigation (Continued on page 20) necessary damage repair to the Moreover, “qualitatively significant” NATO summit, the German government internal public support would be required perhaps irreparably damaged the for countries’ accession to NATO. It is FOUNDED 1933 Membership Action Plan (MAP) goals of not enough for countries’ membership THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY Ukraine and Georgia. Chancellor Angela aspirations to be only supported by the Merkel has turned down those two coun- incumbent leaderships, Ms. Merkel An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. tries’ MAP candidacies, thereby follow- noted. Nor could the alliance risk admit- Yearly subscription rate: $55; for UNA members — $45. ing the lead of her No. 2 in the govern- ting countries on the basis of their voter ment, Minister of Foreign Affairs Frank- preferences, she contended (DPA, March Periodicals postage paid at Parsippany, NJ 07054 and additional mailing offices. Walter Steinmeier. 10). (ISSN — 0273-9348) While that ministry had resisted the The unusual demand for “qualitative- Ukrainian and, especially, Georgian The Weekly: UNA: ly” strong public support seems an Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 MAPs quietly and by applying inertia oblique dismissal of Georgia’s more than within NATO councils, Ms. Merkel has 70 percent support as merely quantita- Postmaster, send address changes to: now gone public and with a tone of final- tive, thus insufficient in Berlin’s view. ity ahead of the NATO summit. The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz This seems also the gist of the allusion to 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas The chancellor was addressing a land- voter preferences, which in Georgia’s P.O. Box 280 mark forum of the German armed forces’ case found expression in the January 5 Parsippany, NJ 07054 top brass (Kommandeurtagung) on plebiscite on NATO aspirations. On the March 10 in Berlin, in the presence of other hand, the reference to support nar- The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com; e-mail: [email protected] NATO Secretary-General Jaap de Hoop rowly based in the leadership group Scheffer. In her speech, which dealt pri- The Ukrainian Weekly, March 23, 2008 No. 12, Vol. LXXVI clearly seeks to devalue the MAP appli- marily with Afghanistan’s challenges, Copyright © 2008 The Ukrainian Weekly Ms. Merkel also cautioned against open- cation submitted by Ukraine’s three top ing the door to Ukraine and Georgia. leaders. Those remarks utilize two misconcep- tions. The first misconception confuses a ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA MAP with actual membership in the alliance and mixes up MAP applications Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3041 Correction from aspirant countries with accession e-mail: [email protected] The story about Lev Dobriansky’s invitations from the alliance. Berlin is Maria Oscislawski, advertising manager (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 funeral (March 9) was incorrectly date- setting strictures and raising bars to e-mail: [email protected] lined Alexandria, Va. The dateline should Georgian and Ukrainian membership, Mariyka Pendzola, subscriptions (973) 292-9800, ext. 3042 e-mail: [email protected] have been given as Arlington, Va. (Continued on page 22) No. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 3 Rice and Gates travel to Moscow for talks with Russian leaders RFE/RL Newsline state and defense had a second day of run Vneshtorgbank (VTB) and former The daily argued that President Bush talks with Russian officials. Prior to meet- head of Microsoft Russia; and Newsweek wants to secure broad international agree- WASHINGTON – President George ing with Defense Minister Anatoly Russia columnist Mikhail Fishman. ment on missile defense before he leaves W. Bush sent Secretary of State Serdyukov and Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Rice asked the civil-society leaders office because Republican presidential Condoleezza Rice and Secretary of Sergei Lavrov, Dr. Rice spoke of a “posi- how Washington could help promote “a “candidate John McCain seems to be the Defense Robert Gates to Moscow on tive spirit” surrounding the talks. For his more open and participatory political sys- only politician firmly confident of the March 17-18 to discuss missile defense, part, Mr. Lavrov said Russia is “satisfied tem” in Russia. necessity of ... missile defense in Europe. non-proliferation and counterterrorism, with the way relations are developing,” Yabloko later said in a statement that His trigger-happy political team would news agencies reported. and that there is a “will” to minimize dis- Mr. Yavlinsky urged Washington to dearly like to strike at Iran.” White House spokeswoman Dana cord. switch from what he called its current Kommersant wrote that it believes the Perino said on March 12 that President Afterwards Mr. Lavrov told a news “half partnership, half confrontation” Bush administration “is one of the lamest Bush and Russian President Putin had conference that Russia still sees the U.S. approach to a “strategic partnership” with ducks in history,” adding that “the whole agreed in a telephone conversation that project as a “risk” for his country. He Moscow. world is waiting for it to step down.” sending the two to Russia would be a added that the two sides “discussed con- Mr. Ryzhkov said afterward that he The paper noted that Russia’s transition “good idea.” tentious issues where we have not reached spoke of the “firm link” between Russia’s will be complex and delicate. “The On March 17 Secretaries Rice and agreement.” He stressed that the best way domestic development and its foreign pol- Kremlin’s foreign political actions will be Gates discussed missile defense and other to deal with the controversy “is to not set cautious because a balance between conti- strategic issues with President Vladimir icy. “The more authoritarian, closed and up these... sites [in Poland and the Czech chauvinistic our state becomes, the more nuity and innovations is needed. Both Putin and President-Elect Dmitry Republic] at all.” Russian leaders will be aware of each Medvedev, as reported by Russian and confrontation we will see in foreign poli- Mr. Lavrov noted nonetheless that “in cy, and the larger will be the cost the other and many other factors, domestic international media. response to our concerns, while it still and foreign alike. This state of affairs President Putin said he received a Russian people will have to bear,” he plans to complete the deployment [of the argued. does not facilitate any revolutionary steps. “very serious” letter from President Bush, missile-defense system in Europe], the Suspicions are what it does facilitate.” which he said will help resolve some Not included in the breakfast meeting United States has made important and were several prominent Kremlin critics, The daily stressed that “avoiding an out- problems in U.S.-Russian relations. Mr. useful proposals to us, which we will right conflict in the next several months is Putin added that “we believe that we can including former Prime Minister Mikhail examine, and which are made by the Kasyanov, former chess champion Garry what the Kremlin will have to make sure probably dot the i’s and reach final agree- United States based on its desire to of.” ment on some of these issues.” He did not Kasparov, and Union of Rightist Forces resolve our concerns.” leader Nikita Belykh. An unnamed Yevgeny Volk, director of the Moscow elaborate, and neither side released the He added that “as for a future strategic office of the Washington-based Heritage “Embassy official” said that the meeting text of the letter. offensive arms treaty, we have agreed that Foundation, told RFE/RL on March 18 was with “civil-society leaders” and not Mr. Gates said he hopes for an agree- it should be a legally binding document, that “the main purpose of this visit [by with the opposition. ment on missile defense before President although there is still a lot of work to be Secretary of State Rice and Defense Tatyana Lokshina, a researcher with Bush leaves office in January 2009. The done to fill this document with concrete Secretary Gates] was just to demonstrate Human Rights Watch who attended a defense secretary noted that “the environ- content. We will continue working on it.” to the international community, to the ment in our meetings was positive” but Secretary of State Rice told reporters meeting with Dr. Rice in October 2007, national leaders in both countries, that the that “I wouldn’t say I’m optimistic on any that “we have agreed that there should be said that she was neither informed about dialogue is continuing, that both sides are of this stuff. ... The Russians hate the idea a joint strategic framework document for the latest meeting nor invited to it. Ms. interested in maintaining the negotiating of missile defense. We are trying to figure the [U.S. and Russian] presidents to be Lokshina added that “I can’t say why she process to prevent the [deterioration] of out a way to make them partners in it.” able to record all of the elements of the didn’t meet us this time, but, frankly, it’s their mutual relationship, and to provide Referring to Mr. Bush’s letter, Dr. Rice U.S.-Russia relationship as we go forward very disappointing. It sends a signal to the certain prospects for the improvement of suggested that the president “wanted to into the future. We’ve agreed on the ele- Russian government.” Russian-American relations in the future.” see... whether... Putin is really interested ments that will be included in that docu- Mr. Kasparov told the Associated Press On March 19 the daily Moskovsky in pursuing progress on a number of ment and made some considerable that he and others in his Other Russia Komsomolets noted that “the tone” of the fronts, [including] missile defense.” progress on a number of them.” She added coalition were not invited. He charged latest high-level talks was “far more wel- Mr. Medvedev noted that “we still nonetheless that “we have work to do.” that Dr. Rice did not meet with people coming” than was the case in October. have differences in our positions on mis- Earlier that morning Dr. Rice met with who are actively working to unite The daily quoted State Duma Foreign sile defense and strategic offensive arms several civil-society leaders and Kremlin Russia’s opposition, and he called on Affairs Committee Chairman Konstantin [in the START treaty]. However, there is a opponents, as she generally does during Washington to be more critical of Mr. Kosachyov as saying that “this meeting’s will to move forward. We must create a her visits to Russia. Mr. Gates also attend- Putin’s rule. significance lies not so much in the... visit basis for continuity in relations between ed the March 18 breakfast. Reaction to the visit itself as in the use of a new format for the Russian Federation and the United The guests were liberal Yabloko party bilateral relations,” which enables top- States in the future.” leader Grigory Yavlinsky; former State The Russian daily Kommersant wrote level officials to discuss vital issues other- A Pentagon press spokesman said that Duma Deputy Vladimir Ryzhkov; on March 18 that Secretary of State Rice wise dealt with by specialist negotiators. the Bush letter provided the impetus and Vladimir Milovidov, a former deputy went to Moscow to see whether He argued that this format, which agenda for the trip and is aimed at making energy minister-turned-Kremlin critic; President-Elect Medvedev intends to con- involves people with significant authority good use of time as both countries under- Dmitry Trenin, deputy head of the tinue the confrontational course that but without directly bringing in the heads go political transitions. Carnegie Moscow Center; Olga President Putin embarked on with his of state, proved effective in the 1990s and On March 18 the U.S. secretaries of Dergunova, a board member of the state- February 10, 2007, speech in Munich. may well do so again.

NEWS ANALYSIS: Convictions in the abduction and murder of Gongadze Committee to Protect Journalists stretch in February. The Kyiv Appeals critical Internet newspaper Ukrayinska ing former Internal Affairs Minister Yuri Court partially closed the proceedings to Pravda (Ukrainian Truth), Gongadze had Kravchenko to “drive out” Gongadze and NEW YORK – An appeals court in the the public, due to sensitive witness testi- long angered authorities with his highly “give him to the Chechens,” according to Ukrainian capital on Saturday, March 15, mony, according to news reports. critical reports detailing corruption in the transcripts obtained by news agencies. convicted three suspects in the 2000 “We welcome the long-sought convic- Kuchma administration. The Internal Affairs Ministry acknowl- abduction and murder of Internet journal- tions in our colleague Heorhii In December 2000 Kuchma’s former edged that its officers conducted surveil- ist Heorhii Gongadze. Gongadze’s slaying as a much-needed security officer Mykola Melnychenko lance of Gongadze shortly before he was The court sentenced a former police claimed he had secretly recorded conver- abducted. officer, Mykola Protasov, to 13 years in first step toward reversing the impunity in this brutal crime,” said CPJ Executive sations between President Kuchma and In April 2005 the Procurator General’s prison; his fellow officers, Valerii senior government officials who alleged- Office announced that it had arrested two Kostenko and Oleksander Popovych, were Director Joel Simon. “We now call on Ukrainian authorities to build on this sig- ly discussed ways of silencing Gongadze. suspects in Gongadze’s murder, Messrs. given 12-year terms. A fourth suspect – Mr. Melnychenko never provided the Kostenko and Protasov, and a third sus- the head of the Internal Affairs Ministry’s nificant momentum to seek out the mas- terminds behind the killing.” original tapes to Ukrainian prosecutors. pect, Mr. Popovych, was identified later criminal investigation department under However, while the tapes were authenti- that year. A fourth suspect – Gen. Pukach former President Leonid Kuchma, Gen. Gongadze’s widow, Washington-based journalist Myroslava Gongadze, told CPJ cated abroad, they were not allowed to be – is being sought as the organizer of the Oleksii Pukach – is still being sought on submitted into evidence. On the tapes, murder who was directed by its master- an international arrest warrant. she is relieved by the court ruling. “But Mr. Kuchma is allegedly heard instruct- minds. The masterminds of the crime are still until the masterminds and the organizers at large, according to international press of Heorhii’s murder are brought to jus- reports and sources in touch with the tice, the case is not over,” she said. New York-based Committee to Protect “Saturday’s verdict is an important step Quotable notes Journalists (CPJ). in the investigation, yet it is not the final The trial, which started in January one.” “Organizers of the killing and those who ordered it should also sit on the 2006, was adjourned multiple times Gongadze, an investigative journalist dock.” before finally reopening for its final critical of then-President Leonid Kuchma, went missing in Kyiv on – Myroslava Gongadze, widow of Heorhii Gongadze, speaking with RFE/RL CPJ is a New York-based, independ- September 16, 2000; two months later his about the March 15 sentencing of three police officers in connection with her ent, non-profit organization that works to decapitated body was found in a forest husband’s abduction and murder in 2000. safeguard press freedom worldwide. outside the city. The pioneer editor of 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 No. 12 Central and East European Coalition meets with McCain’s advisors WASHINGTON – On Thursday, March 13, the Central and East European Coalition (CEEC), com- posed of 19 national organizations representing more than 22 million Americans, discussed a range of policy issues with presidential candidate Sen. John McCain’s advisors, Randy Scheunemann, director of foreign poli- cy and national security, and Stephen Biegun. Sen. McCain’s National Coalitions Director Aaron Manaigo also participated in the meeting. The meeting began with remarks from both advi- sors, focusing on Sen. McCain’s more than 20 years of foreign policy experience and his support for the new democracies in Europe. Of the 13 ancestral countries of CEEC members, Sen. McCain has visited all but one. Sen. McCain’s representatives said he regrets in par- ticular the slowing of initiatives in that region due to fears of distressing the Russian government. Sen. McCain believes the West needs to do more to stand up to Moscow and hold it accountable for both internal and external actions, while at the same time continuing to work with Russia in areas of mutual interest. He also supports enhancing trans-Atlantic relationships in order to put a sounder Russia policy into place, and is visiting London and Paris next week to further those relation- ships. Sen. McCain is also considering the formation of a new “League of Democracies” to unite countries with During the Central and East European Coalition’s meeting with advisors to the presidential campaign of Sen. shared values that may be able to act in areas where the John Mc Cain are: (front row, from left) Marju Rink-Abel (Estonian American National Council/Joint Baltic United Nations has been unable to act, due in part to the American National Committee), Michael Sawkiw (Ukrainian Congress Committee of America), Randy positions of undemocratic countries. Scheunemann (McCain campaign), Stephen Biegun (McCain campaign), Dorin Gabriel Ivanescu (Congress The discussion focused on key areas of concern for of Romanian Americans), (back row) Aaron Manaigo (McCain campaign), Radi Slavoff and Georgina the CEEC, including Russia’s actions in the region, Slavoff (Bulgarian Institute for Research and Analysis), Stephanie Urban (Lithuanian American energy security and diversification, NATO enlargement, Community), Barbara Andersen (Polish American Congress), Ramunas Kondratas (Lithuanian American the missile shield and the visa-waiver program. Council/ Joint Baltic American National Committee), Bianka Dodov (Armenian Assembly of America), Maka Sen. McCain’s advisors noted that he supports con- Gabelia (Georgian Association in the U.S.A.), Karl Altau (Joint Baltic American National Committee) and tinued NATO enlargement and is concerned that a pause Armand Scala (Congress of Romanian Americans). in progress could be detrimental to continued expan- sion. Mr. Scheunemann voiced Sen. McCain’s concern and, understanding the security concerns of the coun- members have such waivers, to broker all such agree- over Russia’s use of energy for political leverage, and tries involved, would be responsive to their needs. A ments (other countries, including Slovakia and Hungary his support for the development of a common energy retreat from the building of the missile defense in are also expected to sign similar agreements shortly). policy with Europe to avoid Russian monopolization of Europe, which is a common U.S.-Europe defense, Commenting on the meeting, Armand Scala, presi- energy provisions to Europe. He added that Sen. would encourage Russia and discourage U.S. allies. dent of the Congress of Romanian Americans, stated McCain believes this important issue is a matter of Mr. Scheunemann voiced support for just-signed that “the two responders were very thorough in their national security for the United States. bilateral agreements between the U.S. and the Czech replies,” adding that “the CEEC is looking forward to As president, Sen. McCain would continue the Republic, Estonia and Latvia regarding visa waivers, further meetings and discussions with Sen. McCain and deployment of the missile shield in Eastern Europe, despite the desire of the European Union, whose older his team.”

Helsinki Commission leaders welcome Resolution introduced in House of Representatives appointment of State Department official supports NATO MAPs for Ukraine and Georgia WASHINGTON – Rep. Alcee L. and the State Department arising from by Serhiy Zhykharev Georgia, that will strengthen this critical Hastings (D-Fla.), chairman of the our common concerns over violations of Ukrainian National Information Service trans-atlantic security institution,” stated Commission on Security and Cooperation fundamental freedoms, democratic prin- Chairman Wexler in remarks as he intro- in Europe (U.S. Helsinki Commission), ciples, and the rule of law. WASHINGTON – Rep. Robert Wexler duced H. Res. 997. “The leaders of Ukraine and Sen. Benjamin L. Cardin (D-Md.), “This year promises to be extremely (D-Fla.), chairman of the Subcommittee on and Georgia “have clearly expressed their commission co-chairman, welcomed the busy for the commission with a plethora Europe of the Foreign Relations desire to join NATO and have made signifi- appointment of David J. Kramer to be of issues from unfolding events in Committee, and Rep. Elton Gallegly (R- cant progress towards meeting the require- assistant secretary of state for democracy, Kosovo and the Balkans to the transfer of Calif.), ranking member of the Europe ments of NATO membership. By granting human rights and labor, and his appoint- power to a new president in the Russian Subcommittee, on February 25 introduced Ukraine and Georgia MAPs, NATO can ment to the commission. Federation and ongoing repression in House Resolution 997 urging the North send an unequivocal message globally Assistant Secretary of State Kramer Belarus. These and many other develop- Atlantic Treaty Organization to enter into a about the importance of promoting demo- was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on ments provide new opportunities and Membership Action Plan (MAP) with cratic values shared by its members – while Friday, March 14. challenges for our work at the Helsinki Ukraine and Georgia at the NATO summit at the same time enhancing Euro-Atlantic The Helsinki Commission leaders Commission. We look forward to in Bucharest in April 2008. security.” issued the following statement welcom- Secretary Kramer playing an active role Reps. Alcee Hastings (D-Fla.), co-chair- On February 28, while in Washington, ing Mr. Kramer’s confirmation. as a fellow Commissioner.” man of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, for the funeral of former Ukrainian “We warmly welcome the confirma- The Commission on Security and Allyson Schwartz (D-Pa.), Gus Bilirakis (R- Congress Committee of America president tion of David Kramer as assistant secre- Cooperation in Europe, also known as Fla.), Luis Fortuno (R-PR), Steve Chabot Lev Dobriansky, Askold Lozynskyj, presi- tary of state for democracy, human rights the Helsinki Commission, is a U.S. gov- (R-Ohio), Chris Shays (R-Conn.), Maurice dent of the Ukrainian World Congress and and labor, and his appointment to serve ernment agency that monitors progress in Hinchey (D-N.Y.), John Shimkus (R-Ill.), Michael Sawkiw Jr., president of the on the Helsinki Commission. Secretary the implementation of the provisions of Bill Shuster (R-Pa.), Thaddeus McCotter UCCA, met with Rep. Wexler and his staff Kramer’s extensive knowledge and expe- the 1975 Helsinki Accords. The commis- (R-Mich.) and Eliot Engel (D-N.Y.) have director on the Subcommittee on Europe of rience in the OSCE region will no doubt sion consists of nine members from the joined as co-sponsors of H. Res. 997. the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, be of great benefit to our work here at the United States Senate, nine from the A similar measure, Senate Resolution Jonathan Katz. Rep. Wexler spoke briefly of commission. We appreciate the close House of Representatives, and one mem- 439, introduced by Sens. Richard Lugar (R- his recent trip to Ukraine, where he met sev- working relationship that has developed ber each from the departments of State, Ind.) and Joseph Biden (D-Del.) was passed eral Ukrainian government officials. over the years between the commission Defense and Commerce. by unanimous consent in the Senate on The two Ukrainian community leaders February 14. thanked the chairman for his support for “As the security challenges facing the Ukraine in introducing the resolution and United States and our European allies con- expressed their willingness to advocate pas- Tired of searching and surfing? tinue to grow, NATO must embrace emerg- sage of this resolution in the House of ing democracies, such as Ukraine and Representatives. The Ukrainian Weekly: your one reliable source for all the news THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY about Ukraine and Ukrainians. Visit our archive on the Internet at: http://www.ukrweekly.com/ No. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 5

THE UKRAINIAN NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FORUM

Foundations announce establishment at Soyuzivka Young UNA’ers of Roma Pryma Bohachevsky Dance Academy by Matthew Dubas new dance floor, upgrades to the bath- room facilities in the rehearsal hall, and PARSIPPANY, N.J. – The Roma replacement of the air conditioning sys- Pryma Bohachevsky Foundation and the tem for the Veselka hall. Ukrainian National Association, through The Roma Pryma Bohachevsky Dance the Soyuzivka Heritage Foundation, on Workshop was founded in 1979 at March 12 announced their partnership in Verkhovyna Mountain View Resort in forming the Roma Pryma Bohachevsky Glen Spey, N.Y., along with the dance Dance Academy at Soyuzivka. camps. To mark the event, Soyuzivka will Speaking of the continuing legacy of host a reception that will include a cultur- the workshop, Ania Bohachevsky- al program and ribbon-cutting ceremony Lonkevych said, “The footprint left by during Memorial Day weekend. As part of the official ceremonies, a plaque, Roma Pryma Bohachevsky, coupled with which will be blessed by local clergy, a talented and diverse staff who pass on will be located on the grounds to inform their love of Ukrainian dance and her- guests of the creation of the academy. itage to Syzokryli, fosters a family In addition, the Ukrainian National atmosphere at Soyuzivka.” Association, and Soyuzivka, have The camps at Soyuzivka are enjoyed pledged their support in establishing by all generations, as parents of campers Mykola Quinn Staruch, son of Adrian One-year-old Oliver Thomas Molls, Soyuzivka as the permanent summer vacation on the same grounds as their T. Staruch and Erin E. Carlin of son of Thomas and Trini Molls of home of the Syzokryli Ukrainian Dance children. Alexandria, Va., is a member of UNA Sacramento, Calif., is a member of Ensemble of New York and welcoming This year’s staff for the dance camps Branch 172. He was enrolled by his UNA Branch 358. He was enrolled by members of the dance ensemble as offi- and workshop includes camp director grandparents Theophil T. and his grandparents Vera Hrabec cial members of the Soyuzivka Heritage Ms. Bohachevsky-Lonkevych, artistic Aristida Staruch. Molls and Frank Molls. Foundation. A sign will be erected at the director Kristine Izak, instructor/chore- entrance to Soyuzivka informing guests ographer Orlando Pagan, along with of the dance ensemble’s new summer Nina Kobryn, head counselor, and Do you have a young UNA’er, or potential young home. Larissa Pagan, wardrobe mistress. UNA’er in your family? This year the Syzokryli ensemble, Additional guest instructors are to be founded by Roma Pryma Bohachevsky, announced. Call the UNA Home Office, 973-292-9800, is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Donations are encouraged for the to find out how to enroll. To ensure the success of the dance future expansion of the facilities at academy, the Ukrainian National Soyuzivka, including new barracks and a Foundation, the UNA’s charitable arm, sheltered activity center. THE UKRAINIAN NATIONAL ASSOCIATION made a generous donation for the mod- For more information on the dance ernization of the facilities used by the camps and dance workshop at Sponsors an Awards and Scholarship Program to UNA student dancers, which last year numbered over Soyuzivka, readers may visit members attending college in academic year 2008-2009 www.soyuzivka.com. 300. These include the installation of a The UNA Scholarship program for UNA student members offers 2 programs: An Awards Program and a Scholarship Program.

UNA Awards Program: these awards are assigned by the Scholarship Committee, designating a set amount to each year depending on the total amount assigned for the awards. The applicant must comply with all rules and qualifications. UNA Scholarship Program: offers scholarship to active UNA members completing Freshman, Sophomore and Junior years in college. Specific Scholarships: Dr. Susan Galandiuk, In momeory of Drs. Maria & Demetrius Jarosewycz, Vera Stangl, Joseph Wolk and the Ukrainian National Home Corp. of Blackstone. Each Scholarship has special requirements that the student applicant must comply with.

• Scholarships and awards will be granted to UNDERGRADUATE students attending accredited colleges or universities, studying towards their first bachelor’s degree, and to High School graduates entering colleges.

• Applications for UNA SPECIAL SCHOLARSHIPS or UNA AWARDS will be accepted from students who have been ACTIVE UNA MEMBERS for at least TWO YEARS by June 1st of the filing year.

• Applications and required enclosures must be sent to the UNA in ONE MAILING and be postmarked not later than June 1, 2008.

Russ Chelak • Incomplete and/or late entries will automatically be disqualified. Dancers perform a Hutsul number at Soyuzivka. UKRAINIAN NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, INC., SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE Mission Statement 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054 Please send me a scholarship application for the 2008/2009 academic year.

The Ukrainian National Association exists: (please print or type) ■ to promote the principles of fraternalism; Name (in English) ______

■ to preserve the Ukrainian, Ukrainian American and Ukrainian Name (in Ukrainian) ______Canadian heritage and culture; and Address ______■ to provide quality financial services and products to its members. City ______State ______Zip Code ______

As a fraternal insurance society, the Ukrainian National Association reinvests Tel. ______E-mail ______

its earnings for the benefit of its members and the Ukrainian community. Web: ______I am a member of UNA BRANCH # ______

THE UNA: 114 YEARS OF SERVICE TO OUR COMMUNITY 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 No. 12

LETTER TO THE EDITOR THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY Association for Ukrainian Studies list; cf: Remembering William F. Buckley Jr. Demagogic argument http://www.brama.com/mailman/listinfo/a aus-list), at this time no exact figure is Much has been written about the passing on February 27, at the age of 82, of against Prof. Motyl available – the crime in question precludes William F. Buckley, Jr., “the intellectual father of the modern American conservative Dear Editor: this kind of accuracy, although with more movement” (The Washington Post), “who marshaled polysyllabic exuberance… and a research we should know more – and refined, perspicacious mind to elevate conservatism to the center of American political I was dismayed to read in your letters well-informed researchers, many of them discourse” (The New York Times). to the editor column (March 2) “A subver- Ukrainians, place the number of victims Mr. Buckley was a writer and journalist, magazine founder and editor, syndicated sion of ” by Peter Borisow precisely in the range that Prof. Motyl columnist and public speaker, and host of television and radio talk shows, whose lega- which attacks Prof. Alexander Motyl in spoke of. Politicians may, of course, raise cy includes more than 50 books, 5,600 installments of his column “On the Right.” and terms which I would have thought are no the ante to achieve a certain effect, but by 1,504 programs of his long-lived TV program “Firing Line.” National Review – the longer acceptable in our community or doing so they do not necessarily help the magazine he founded in 1955 when he was all of 29 years old – wrote of the late Mr. indeed any civil society. Ukrainian cause. Buckley: “He inspired and incited three generations of conservatives, and counting.” Prof. Motyl’s “crime” (this, incredibly, A central issue in this cause is to make To the Ukrainian community William F. Buckley Jr. was well-known as a steadfast is precisely the term Mr. Borisow uses; he sure that the Holodomor is perceived for anti-Communist who did not mince words. also refers to Prof. Motyl’s “disinforma- what it was – a genocide perpetrated In a September 1986 syndicated column he wrote about the Holodomor: “Not tion”) is that he spoke of the Holodomor against the Ukrainian people by a genoci- many people know that between 1932 and 1933, Josef Stalin decided to crush the peo- as having somewhere between 3 million dal Stalinist regime. Inflating the number ple of the Ukraine. The neatest way to effect this was to starve them to death. This was and 6 million victims. According to Mr. of victims does not help – the crime is done by going in and removing the wheat – not an easy project. It’s something like Borisow that number should be a hard- horrific enough – and may only serve to going into Iowa and removing all the wheat, and then moving in a division or two and-fast 10 million – the figure that has make the universal acceptance of this as a whose responsibility is to keep the borders, in this case the borders of the Ukraine… been used by President Viktor genocide harder to achieve. A number of locked tight in order to prevent people from moving out or food from getting in. A Yushchenko in Ukraine. Anything under scholars (myself included) have written good year for old Joe. He managed in that one episode to kill more people than Hitler that is unacceptable and, absent an apolo- on this subject, and Prof. Motyl has also killed in his slaughterhouses. In fact, he killed more people than were killed on all the gy, subject to the reprisals Mr. Borisow played a prominent role here, for exam- battlefronts of World War I.” proposes – being “drummed out of ple, by helping organize an upcoming Mr. Buckley went on in that column to note how CBS, NBC and ABC all declined Ukrainian organizations and … rendered conference on the Holodomor at Rutgers to broadcast the award-winning documentary “Harvest of Despair” (1985, the work of unwelcome in the Ukrainian community.” University. Slavko Nowytski and Yurij Luhovy), which was about “one of the most spectacular As anyone acquainted with this subject To accuse him now of some kind of acts of human cruelty in history. Moreover, not something entirely irrelevant to a con- knows (there was recently a very informa- “crime” against the Ukrainian community tinuing understanding of the Soviet Union and its policies” since “official Soviet histo- tive discussion on this on the American for voicing what is generally accepted in ry simply denies that the famine ever took place.” The film was shown on September the scholarly field is not just patently 24, 1986, in a special two-hour edition of Mr. Buckley’s “Firing Line” on PBS. (To be We welcome your opinion absurd – it’s indecent. sure, PBS agreed to air it only if it was followed by a panel discussion to present “the What a low opinion one must have of other side.”) Introducing the film, the host informed viewers that “successful disinfor- The Ukrainian Weekly welcomes letters the Ukrainian community to make this mation” engineered by Stalin “kept the news and the extent of the famine, perhaps the to the editor and commentaries on a variety kind of demagogic argument. As if we greatest holocaust of the century, shielded from the attention of the majority of the of topics of concern to the Ukrainian were some kind of a sect where you can American and Ukrainian Canadian com- “drum out” heretics? Where instead of Western world.” At the conclusion of the film he opined: “Well that’s about as harrow- munities. Opinions expressed by colum- ing an hour this side of Dachau that I can imagine.” Furthermore, he succeeded in looking for common ground and recog- nists, commentators and letter-writers are nizing genuine contributions you try to concluding the post-film discussion by having his guests state that “Harvest” is an their own and do not necessarily reflect the accurate documentary that should indeed have been shown on network TV. opinions of either The Weekly editorial force everyone (and scholars above all) to “Harvest of Despair’s” nationwide broadcast and the ensuing discussion played a staff or its publisher, the Ukrainian think and speak “correctly” – or else risk great role in enlightening the American public about the genocidal Famine. And we National Association. ostracism? Ukrainians have the great William F. Buckley Jr. to thank for it. Vichnaya pamiat. Letters should be typed and signed This thinking is straight out of the (anonymous letters are not published). totalitarian past, and Mr. Borisow should Letters are accepted also via e-mail at be ashamed of himself. [email protected]. The daytime phone number and address of the letter-writer must George G. Grabowicz March be given for verification purposes. Please Milton, Mass. Turning the pages back... note that a daytime phone number is essen- tial in order for editors to contact letter-writ- The letter-writer is Dmytro Cyzevskyj ers regarding clarifications or questions. Professor of Ukrainian Literature at 30 Please note: THE LENGTH OF LETTERS Harvard University and editor-in-chief of Five years ago, on March 30, 2003, The Ukrainian Weekly CANNOT EXCEED 500 WORDS. Krytyka. 2003 reported on popular sentiments in Ukraine concerning the war in Iraq. A study conducted by the polling firm Talyor, Nelson, IN THE PRESS Sofrez-Ukraine and funded by the non-governmental organiza- tion Democratic Initiatives, showed that 82 percent of Ukrainians held the view that “the military operations in Iraq are not acceptable under any circumstances.” Another 10 percent said the operations would be acceptable only if weapons of mass The U.S. election and Ukraine destruction (WMD) were found on Iraqi territory. The poll was conducted prior to the “U.S. election to lift Ukraine’s role,” of Ukraine’s Western integration. onset of the Iraqi conflict, between February 27, 2003, and March 9, 2003, and included by Mark Rachkevych, assistant editor, “McCain has also been the staunchest 1,200 respondents from all the regions of Ukraine, with a margin of error of 3 percent. Kyiv Post, February 28: challenger to Russian Federation The Verkhovna Rada on March 20, 2003, approved the deployment to Kuwait of 531 President Vladimir Putin, avidly criticiz- members of the Ukrainian Army’s 19th Battalion, a support chemical and bacteriologi- “…Washington insiders believe no ing his authoritarian politics and even cal clean-up unit, if such WMD were used. matter who wins the November presiden- urging Russia’s exclusion from the Group Ukrainian government officials emphasized that the battalion’s mission was exclu- tial election, Kyiv will likely recover of Eight (G-8), the world’s greatest eco- sively and inviolately humanitarian and precluded any possibility that it could take part some of its status as a foreign policy pri- nomic powers. in combat or even that it could enter the area of conflict. ority. “All three presidential candidates visit- In a survey conducted by the Razumkov Center for Economic and Political Research, “ ‘The importance of Ukraine as a suc- ed Ukraine at least once. McCain visited 94 percent did not see any need for Ukrainian involvement in the conflict surrounding cessful former Soviet state is a high prior- numerous times, most notably in August Iraq, more than 77 percent of those surveyed said they did not support the deployment ity as the war in Iraq dies down, as it 2004 when he met with government and of the battalion, while 8.8 percent said that Ukraine should only provide humanitarian will,’ said William Green Miller, the U.S. opposition presidential candidates. assistance. This survey, which was conducted at the same time as the one by Democratic ambassador to Ukraine from 1993 to “Sen. Hillary Clinton, D–N.Y., visited Initiatives, polled 2,000 Ukrainians in 118 residential areas located in all of Ukraine’s 1998. in 1995, 1997 and a third time in 2005, regions, and had a margin of error of 2.3 percent. “ ‘Ukraine is more and more economi- and Sen. Barack Obama, D–Ill., paid a President George W. Bush on March 26, 2003, announced the members of the anti- cally successful, so it is critical to give it visit in 2005. …” Iraq coalition, including Ukraine. In response, Petro Symonenko, leader of the political support instead of more financial “The New York senator was also the Communist Party of Ukraine, said, “The speech by the American president only brought aid or technical assistance.’ honorary chair of the 1996 Chornobyl to light what we have been saying all along: that Ukrainian leaders had every intention “Of the three presidential contenders Challenge and received the Children of of being in partnership with the U.S. in Iraq.” remaining, observers said Sen. John Chornobyl Relief Fund’s Lifetime “We responded in support of a request from Kuwait to provide humanitarian aid,” McCain (R-Ariz.) would be Ukraine’s Humanitarian Achievement Award in said Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson Markian Lubkivskyi. “In this way biggest advocate, as his record demon- 1999. and only in this way are we part of the coalition.” strates. The likely Republican nominee “…both Clinton and Obama have Mr. Lubkivskyi also denied that the battalion would take pat in combat operations, an lent his support to Viktor Yushchenko and Ukraine–friendly foreign policy advisers. assertion that Steven Pifer, former ambassador to Ukraine, supported from Washington. the Orange Revolution from the very … Mr. Pifer explained that Ukraine’s agreement to perform decontamination operations start, before the smoke cleared and other “In fact, both the Republican and in Kuwait freed U.S. clean-up units to concentrate on Iraq. U.S. politicians felt safer to extend Democratic parties favor Ukraine’s inte- endorsements. gration into Euro-Atlantic structures, and Source: “Majority of Ukraine’s citizens against U.S.-led war in Iraq,” by Roman “He chairs the International all three candidates offer similar Woronowycz, The Ukrainian Weekly, March 30, 2003. Republican Institute, a leading advocate approaches, experts said. …” No. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 7 View Trembitafrom the Lounge by Andrew Sorokowski by Taras Szmagala Jr. “There will be no further discussion” Whither Rus’? A dialogue Last year in this column, I noted that Josaphat School was facing financial dif- The scene: a summer estate at Palus a Titan and a giant, they will exploit us if the both the Roman Diocese of ficulties, it was already too late. Despite Magna, near the great center of culture we prove compliant. Like Athens, they’re Cleveland and Ukrainian Catholic the valiant efforts of a number of talented and learning Komarno in the Rus’ com- both empire and democracy. They’ll fall of St. Josaphat in Parma, Ohio, parishioners – many experienced in mar- monwealth, around the year 7100 since like Athens, split by their hypocrisy. faced difficult choices in their near keting, finance and other business disci- the Creation. The provincial notable and Moscophilus: And how would they future. The Roman Catholic of plines – there simply wasn’t time to parliamentary delegate Comarnicus has protect us? They are locked in struggle Cleveland has elected to discuss these develop a business plan to stem the red invited three friends to dinner. with the Arab infidel, in which they choices openly, by creating clus- ink. Indeed, according to our eparchy Moscophilus, a soldier and diplomat, has would entangle us as well. The Arab ters, sharing financial information and leaders, keeping the school open would just returned from a delegation to fights for Allah, not for luxury, or ill- engaging the faithful in frank, if painful, possibly cause the bankruptcy of our Muscovy. The scholar and humanist spent liberty. These Calibans will never dialogue. The question I posed in my eparchy. Eurocrates has spent a year at the overcome his Taliban. article was simple: Would our Ukrainian At the recent banquet celebrating its Sorbonne. Columbina, a merchant’s Comarnicus: And what, Eurocrates, bishop do the same? 60th anniversary, it was clear that the daughter, dreams of sailing to the New do you advise? We now know the answer. A few clergy already knew St. Josaphat School World. After they have partaken of Eurocrates: Why, Europe is our home, weeks ago, through a letter signed by was out of time. Their prepared remarks refreshment, their host addresses them. and has been ever. It is for us a natural Bishop Robert Moskal, the Rev. Michael were surprisingly negative and even endeavour to trade with Germans, Rewtiuk and the Rev. Andrew accusatory. They went out of their way to Comarnicus: I’ve summoned you, my Frenchmen and Italians. Lisbon and Hanowsky, the Ukrainian faithful of assign blame for the school’s troubles – friends, to pose this question: Who is our London, Genoa and Venice, are all Cleveland were informed that St. and that blame lay squarely with us, the commonwealth’s most trusted friend? acquainted with our laden galleons. Josaphat Ukrainian was faithful. Our sins were many: enrollment Upon what star should Rus’ orient her They’re our defense against the northern to close. (In a subsequent interview with was too low, we valued material things course? menace. Their manuals of arms provide The Ukrainian Weekly, Bishop Moskal more than a Catholic education, we did Moscophilus: Why, surely it is the ability to organize our interoperability. denied signing the letter; if such is the not donate sufficient funds to support the Muscovy. For she’s our mightiest neigh- Our laws and customs, sciences and case, one wonders who forged his signa- school, etc. And perhaps they were right bor, chief partner in trade, our strongest arts, must bind us all to European parts. ture and seal, which clearly appear on the – it is quite possible that the school ally in both war and peace. Her people Our youth are taught in Paris and document.) The letter outlined the rea- would not have survived, regardless of speak a sister tongue and share our holy Bologna… sons necessitating the closure: low atten- its management. Declining enrollment Orthodox faith. Columbina: This is indeed Bologna. dance, financial challenges and the like. was a real challenge, and perhaps not Eurocrates: Alas, their piety has fall- Europe’s best will not admit us to their And, in case the reader was unsure who even the best efforts of skilled leaders en. Now it matches their sobriety. Yet markets. Lest you think they’ll send their was in charge, the letter closed with the could have changed the school’s for- Tsar Vladimir’s no Vanya-come-lately. armies to defend us, be certain they’ll admonition from our Church leaders that tunes. It’s certainly a shame, though, that Although we have the mills, he’s got the conclude a shameful truce. They will there would be “no further discussion” they were not given a chance to try. grist. He’s like John Money-Bag: bribes, impose their onerous laws and raise their on the matter. Period. I freely admit that my perspective on but won’t show it. He holds the threads of tariffs while we ape their foolish ways. This letter conveyed not only an the Ukrainian has been commerce in his fist. He’ll have us all Not all that sprouts in Brussels thrives in administrative decision – it revealed our influenced by my increasing participa- sewn up before we know it. Rus’. eparch’s attitude toward his eparchy. The tion in the Roman Catholic Church. My Moscophilus: But nonetheless, his Moscophilus: The West has lost the message is not lost on his flock: The wife and I split time between our respec- subjects love him greatly. will for its defense. The Arabs once took bishop is the one in charge, and we are tive rites, and we each enjoy aspects of Columbina: He is a tyrant, like the Spain; and now the Turks have sacked merely the parishioners. What he says both. But for me, the way in which the tsars before him. He sends forth murder- Byzantium. Europe’s senescent. Its goes, regardless of whether we agree. He Roman Church leaders adapt to the needs ous bands against his boyars, he terrifies churches, brimming with their sacred is the king, and we are the servants. The of their increasingly educated flock high- his merchants and his lawyers. How often treasure, have now been turned to dens of message, while admirable in its clarity, lights the managerial shortcomings of the have his troops pillaged our land! Today idle pleasure, or else surmounted with the shows the eparch’s detachment from the Ukrainian Church. In our Roman his armies stand across the Niester, Moslem crescent. It can produce no art, Catholic parish, the laity are extensively faithful is nearly complete. foment rebellion in , Georgia… no thought, no works. For Western youth, involved with the priests in a wide vari- This attitude seems rooted in the days He poisons enemies, like Madame once heretics and papists, now faithless, ety of programs. We are made to feel a where most church-goers did not have Borgia. (Swatting a mosquito) Be drug themselves – they’re mere escapists. part of the parish, with the priest not as the luxury of higher education. Many warned: bloodthirsty Vlad will suck our They cannot breed, they live in deca- our superior, but as our spiritual guide. found themselves laboring in fields and plasma as surely as the flies of Palus dence. The Arab, for all his cruel misogy- Laity take part in every substantive factories, and had little knowledge of, or Magna. ny, will populate the land with his rife aspect of church administration. And this interest in, administrative tasks such as Moscophilus: What is this? Does a progeny. If he can’t breach the ramparts approach seems to be working: last preparing budgets, raising funds or woman speak so freely? of Vienna, he’ll settle down in Paris, week, one Roman Catholic parish in a developing business plans. These hard- Eurocrates: We live in modern times. Rome, Sienna. The Moslem breeds and nearby suburb administered the sacra- working and devout Christians looked to Comarnicus: Early Modern, to be pre- peoples Europe’s continent. ment of confirmation to 240 young The European’s barren, though inconti- their bishop to make decisions for them – cise. But tell me, Columbina, what would adults. When properly nurtured, the nent. not only in matters of theology, but of you counsel to our Parliament? Catholic faith will grow. Comarnicus: I thank you for your administration, as well. Columbina: America’s our finest To be sure, there are bright spots with- words. The day is gone, the moon has Of course, times have changed. Higher friend. This nation is brave and free, both in the Ukrainian Catholic Church. My risen and you must be weary. Farewell, education is common among Ukrainian generous and kind. Her land is spacious parish of St. Andrew is particularly well- then, may you travel safely hence. (They Catholics in the United States, and many and the sun shines bright. Her armies run, with an active and talented laity, car- depart.) of us have post-graduate degrees. We are brandish missiles, bombs and rockets. ing clergy and solid management prac- (Soliloquy) These divers arguments leaders in government, medicine, law, They will protect us from the Muscovite. tices. But the bigger picture remains perplex my sense. Perhaps I have not engineering and business. We’ve been Her laws and Constitution, to my mind, cloudy. Many challenges lie ahead – not posed the proper query. For why must successful in our endeavors and, as our protect all men: both full and empty the least of which is to stem the continual Rus’ seek favor in foreign eyes? Some Church struggles to modernize and adapt pockets. Her women are the freest in decline in Church membership. We can- day a man of politics will state: “A com- to new challenges, we, the laity, are will- Creation. not accomplish this by merely wishing it Moscophilus: A wanton lot indeed. monwealth has no friends or allies, but ing and able to lend our professional sup- were not so, or by having Church leaders only interests that ever change.” port. But, as the St. Josaphat example And their plebeians, through sloth and admonish us for failing to be better gluttony, wax gross, ungainly. They wan- In this brave new world, Rus’ must demonstrates, we can’t force our Church parishioners. Rather, our Church leaders stand alone. For has she not the earth’s to accept our help. der the malls, chattering inanely. Their must adapt – not theologically, but merchants have formed companies to most fertile soil? Do not her people reap Unlike many Catholic schools in administratively – to accept the laity as what they have sown? Our sturdy peas- Cleveland, St. Josaphat School did not peddle vile victuals, raucous music, true partners in the faith. If the Ukrainian shameless raiment, impudent revels, vul- ant’s used to honest toil. Fair Princess have a board of trustees or other financial Catholic Church is to survive in the Julia’s subterranean gases will warm the oversight committee. No financial state- gar entertainments. They would corrupt United States, there must be further dis- our people, all the better to sell their huts and workshops of the masses. Let ments were ever made publicly available; cussion. And a lot of it. Rus’ be Rus’, and never tie her fate to in fact, very few non-clergy have ever shameful wares. Once he’s thus fettered, the man of vice will spend. Virtue and alien rulers. But it must be late. I’m off; seen the school’s accounting records. Taras Szmagala Jr. may be reached at I’ll reach Leopolis by dawn. There will I When the clergy revealed that St. [email protected]. mettle are merchants’ foes. What say your Europeans? rest, change horses and arrange to make Eurocrates: Agreed. This race of ped- my way to Kyiv-town apace, before the For a quick look at of the top news in each week’s issue of dlers renders aid so that they may outwit Council to present my case. The Ukrainian Weekly, us in their trade. They fear the Muscovite; check out our website: www.ukrweekly.com they’ll use us, hence, to serve them as a Andrew Sorokowski can be reached at wall for their defense. As pawns between [email protected]. 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 No. 12

Ukrainians, often not commonly known, in Ukrainian Canadian University... such fields as art, music, literature and film (Continued from page 1) – both in the past and present. and stressed the continuing need for such a Prof. Zuk, emeritus professor at McGill’s publication. A question-and-answer period School of Architecture, encouraged students followed his remarks. to re-familiarize themselves with the many The current editor of Student, Ms. noteworthy and often extraordinary Luhovy, a communication major at achievements of Ukrainians and inform oth- Concordia University, with the assistance of ers, since this fosters respect and recogni- Andrij Popiel of , worked on and tion. People and nations with their unique met the congress deadline for the publica- cultural contributions are remembered tion’s newest issue. The new issue was a throughout history. In turn, this also gives highlight at the congress as it featured greet- pride to students and a desire to perpetuate ings on the occasion of the 50th congress their identity and share it with others, he from many past SUSK presidents, activists noted. and long-time supporters; club news regard- The banquet was concluded with a dance ing activities of the various student organi- to a popular band from , Ukrainia. zations across Canada, and much more. The On Sunday Ukraine’s Ambassador to issue will soon be available on the SUSK Canada Ihor Ostash addressed SUSK con- site, www.susk.ca. gress delegates. He outlined a range of proj- The 50th congress banquet was held at ects that would interest SUSK members, the elegant McGill Thompson House, with including linking with the “Studentske guest speaker Prof. Radoslav Zuk who Bratsvo”, the comparable university student SUSK President Artem Luhovy (second from left) with several SUSK past presi- addressed the topic of culture, and stressed body in Ukraine. dents, (from left) Prof. Roman Serbyn, Paul Horbal and Michael Bociurkiw, at the need to emphasize and expose the many Due to hazardous weather, the president the congress banquet. exceptional accomplishments by of the U.S.-based Federation of Ukrainian Student Organizations in America (known Union Ltd., Pavlo Grod, Ukrainian National as SUSTA), who is from New Jersey, could Federation of Montreal. Also contributing not attend. Also, Dr. Roman Petryshyn of were the UCC Manitoba Provincial was unable to participate as pre- Council, North End Credit Union of viously scheduled. Winnipeg, the and Montreal As part of the 50th congress, a festival of branches of the Ukrainian Canadian contemporary Ukrainian films was present- Professional and Business Association, and ed by Dr. Yuri Shevchuk of Columbia Prosvita Lachine, as well as others. Print University. Before each of the films he materials were donated by Nestor Sanajko explained the circumstances under which of Concordia University, the Ukrainian the films were made; he answered questions National Association and Ukrainian News following each screening. Also shown to in Edmonton. SUSK delegates was the documentary film The newly elected SUSK executive “Bereza Kartuzka.” Present at this showing members for 2008-2009 are: President was a student delegate from , Tamara Mischena (University of Guelph), now studying at McGill, whose grandfather Vice-President Yarko Petryshyn (University was taken to the infamous Polish concentra- of Manitoba), VP Finance Roman tion camp (1934-1939). Soltykevych (University of ), Ambassador Ihor Ostash (second from right) with SUSK executive members On several occasions SUSK’s president, Secretary Nadia Kozubal (University of (from left) Paul Horbal, Artem Luhovy, Adriana Luhovy and Andrij Popiel. Mr. Luhovy, expressed his gratitude to the Manitoba), VP Regional (East) Andrew community for the financial support Wodoslawsky (University of Toronto), VP received by the student union to help organ- Regional (West) Andrew Popiel (University ize the 50th congress, to help subsidize stu- of Manitoba), Internal Relations Director, dent delegates from across Canada and to Daniel Fedorowycz (University of Toronto), help print the anniversary issue of Student. External Relations Director Nestor Sanajko He underscored that the work of SUSK (Concordia University), Media Director could not have been done without this sup- Adriana Luhovy (Concordia University), port. Projects Director Kalyna Sanajko Among the major sponsors were the (Concordia University), Alumni Recruiter Shevchenko Foundation, Caisse Populaire Jarko Holovka (McGill University) and Ukrainienne of Montreal, McGill Ukrainian Immediate Past President Artem Luhovy Students’ Union, Toronto Ukrainian Credit (McGill University).

THE DISTRICT COMMITTEE OF UNA BRANCHES OF NEW YORK, N.Y., announces that its ANNUAL SPRING DISTRICT MEETING will be held on Friday, April 4, 2008 at 6:00pm at UCCA National Office 203 Second Avenue (between 12th and 13th Streets), 2nd Floor The evening will feature a film showing of "The Helm of Destiny", a documentary about the UNA and its history. (Narrated by Jack Palance, Produced and Directed by Slavko Nowytski)

Light hors d'eouvres and refreshments will be served!

The following branch members and their guests are invited to attend: 5, 8, 16, 86, 130, 184, 194, 267, 325, 327, 450, 489

All members of the community are welcome!

Do you have any questions about the UNA? This is the perfect opportunity to learn more about UNA's rich history as well as what UNA can do for you.

Space is limited. Please RSVP to Maya Lew at (212) 689-8894 or may- [email protected]

Meeting will be attended by: Christina Kozak - UNA National Secretary Oksana Trytjak - UNA National Organizer Maya Lew - District Chairman Members of the General Assembly New York District Committee New York District Branch Secretaries No. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 9

intact in the capital,” underscored Ms. committee for a period of two weeks, dur- the first time the Verkhovna Rada had suc- Rada approves... Tymoshenko. ing which it will undergo additional dis- cessfully voted to remove an entire munic- (Continued from page 1) Ms. Tymoshenko has accused Mr. cussion before being reintroduced on the ipal administration from office. dent does not do so within a two-week Chernovetskyi of corruption linked to the floor for subsequent consideration and The mayoral elections in Kyiv are period. Under the amended version of controversial privatization of land plots voting in Parliament. scheduled to take place 70 days after the the law, these ministers would be in Kyiv over the last six months. Ms. Also on Tuesday, March 18, Prime resolution takes effect, which means the approved by the Verkhovna Rada only Tymoshenko has brought into question Minister Tymoshenko got her wish when elections could be held as early as the after the president announced his nomina- and hopes to reverse the privatization of Parliament approved a resolution ordering beginning of June. approximately 1,700 hectares of land tions. Similarly, any proposal by the pre-term mayoral and local elections in The prime minister’s bloc enjoys sig- within the Kyiv metropolitan area which, prime minister to dismiss the defense and Kyiv, setting an important precedent that nificant popularity in the city of Kyiv, according to some estimates, may be foreign affairs ministers would be permit- may decide, in the near future, the fate of but, according to political analysts, the worth more than $3 billion, but were ted for submission to Parliament only all municipal governments across YTB would need to align itself with other allegedly allotted and given away free of after the president’s initial consent. Ukraine. coalition forces, such as the OU-PSD and charge. In addition, the draft law on the The resolution, which in essence has the Vitali Klitchko Bloc, in order to gar- The prime minister’s pressure for Mr. Cabinet of Ministers would give ministers ousted Kyiv Mayor Chernovetskyi, can ner a major victory in the local elections. Chernovetskyi’s ouster and her calls for the right to nominate their deputies, but at be considered a major victory for Ms. The March 18 voting on the two bills pre-term mayoral elections in Kyiv are the same time would deprive the prime Tymoshenko, whose bloc is expected to was considered a test for the governing viewed not only as a tangible effort to do well in the Kyiv municipal elections. coalition of groups loyal to President minister of the power to coordinate the eradicate corruption, but also as a much activities of various ministries and other Approved by a 246-5 vote, the resolu- Yushchenko and those leaning toward broader plan in a political campaign to tion was supported by the coalition forces, Prime Minister Tymoshenko, which had executive institutions. According to capitalize on her party’s popularity in the President Yushchenko’s deputy chief of as well as by the Lytvyn Bloc. The vote been showing signs of strain for the last country’s capital city. took on historic proportions as this was two months. staff, Oleksander Shklapak, the draft law The opposition forces in Parliament also stipulates that the Cabinet must com- labeled the draft law on the Cabinet of ply with decisions adopted by the Ministers as unconstitutional. In National Security and Defense Council of response, Roman Zvarych (OU-PSD) Ukraine, which are confirmed by presi- verdict. responded by stating that it was in fact the Three convicted... Gongadze’s mother expressed shock at dential decrees. existing law on the Cabinet of Ministers Initially, Prime Minister Tymoshenko (Continued from page 1) what she considers a rather harsh verdict that could be considered unconstitutional. for the three convicted killers, as she is expressed dissatisfaction when President “The existing law was adopted not All three convicted men expressed their convinced the three police officers are Yushchenko in January announced his because you [the opposition] wished to sorrow and regret to the journalist’s moth- nothing but pawns who simply carried out intent to curb the authority of the Cabinet mend relations between the government er, Lesia Gongadze, who was also present of Ministers. However, as part of her and the president, but because you want- in the courtroom during the four-hour orders and are now being exposed to the ongoing crusade against corruption, Ms. ed to put the head of state in his place,” public reading of the verdict. public as scapegoats. She said she is con- Tymoshenko announced on March 16 retorted Mr. Zvarych. Heorhii Gongadze, who exposed high- vinced that the announced verdict will be that her bloc would vote in favor of On the day of the vote, individual level corruption in Ukraine during the era an attempt to close the book on the amending the law on the Cabinet of national deputies called for the draft law of President Leonid Kuchma by establish- unsolved murder of her son. Ministers, but only under the conditions to be adopted in its final version, with a ing and running the innovative website On the other hand, the widow of the that, firstly, Parliament would schedule majority of such proponents hailing from Ukrayinska Pravda, was kidnapped on slain journalist, Myroslava Gongadze, said for review a report of an ad-hoc commis- none other than the Yulia Tymoshenko September 16, 2000. The journalist’s she thinks the verdict in her husband’s sion on the activities of Leonid Bloc. Mykola Tomenko explained his headless body was later dumped in a forest murder is fair – even though the case has Chernovetskyi, Kyiv’s controversial faction’s broad support for the bill on the on the outskirts of Kyiv. Approximately not been fully solved. mayor, and, secondly, Mr. Yushchenko’s Cabinet of Ministers as a sign of the bloc’s six weeks later his corpse was discovered At the same time, Myroslava Gongadze party would support a bill calling for the wish to strengthen the coalition. “This is and eventually positively identified. stated that those who organized and dismissal of Mayor Chernovetskyi. our political position. Under the current The Gongadze murder eight years ago ordered the actual killing of her husband Otherwise, Ms. Tymoshenko had warned situation it is extremely important for us to fueled overwhelming discontent in must be put on trial in a court of law. Ukraine and prompted mass protests in that her political faction would consider demonstrate that we adhere to the coali- “Until all those who are accessories to this 2000 and 2001 against President Kuchma. blocking Parliament on the day of the tion’s principles, as well as our own strate- crime are punished for the murder of The public outcry intensified after one of scheduled vote regarding the draft law on gic line in support of the president of Heorhii, neither the president, nor any the president’s former security agents the Cabinet of Ministers. Ukraine,” Mr. Tomenko underscored. high-ranking officials have the right to tell Before casting her vote on both bills The coalition, however, was unsuc- released secret tapes of what he claimed was Mr. Kuchma ordering the murder of the public and the international communi- Prime Minister Tymoshenko admitted on cessful in having the Cabinet bill ty that the case of Gongadze is settled,” March 18 that her approval of the restric- approved. The bill failed to reach the final the investigative journalist. The outrage over Gongadze’s demise she underscored. tive and limiting changes to the Cabinet reading after opposition forces pledged to Offering his comments after hearing of Ministers law was a tough compromise draft several of their own amendments to fueled additional demonstrations that ulti- mately manifested themselves through the the verdict in the murder of his friend, for securing Parliament’s guaranteed vote the draft law following its first reading Lviv journalist Oles Pohranychnyi said on the bill calling for Mayor Orange Revolution and culminated with and the initial vote. As a result, that the verdict seemed strange to him. Chernovetskyi’s removal from office. At Verkhovna Rada Chairman Arseniy the end of President Kuchma’s two-term “It’s obvious this was a contract killing the same time, “no authority and power Yatsenyuk announced that the draft law presidency at the end of 2004. and that’s why it’s difficult to consider this have any value if we keep corruption on the Cabinet of Ministers will go into Mr. Kuchma has repeatedly denied involvement in the killing, and investiga- trial just. What were the motives? We tors have failed to identify who actually have not dotted the ‘i’s nor crossed the ‘t’s gave the order to kill Gongadze. yet, and yet someone is trying to have this “Mr. Gongadze’s wife, Myroslava, and case closed as soon as possible. Soon all mother, Lesia, have repeatedly said they of this will be forgotten, unfortunately, will insist on further investigations to and that’s what the government is count- identify those who ordered the murder,” ing on,” said Mr. Pohranychnyi, who stated Valentyna Telychenko, an attorney knew Gongadze since the early 1990s and for the family, speaking after the trial. co-organized the movement “Za Pravdu” “Judging from Kostenko’s words, he (For Truth) following the journalist’s expressed sincere remorse for his wrong- death. “This is complete disrespect to the doing,” added Ms. Telychenko. At this entire nation. This is all a PR sham and time it is imperative to establish a motive this verdict is simply a farce,” added Mr. for the crime, especially since neither Pohranychnyi. Myroslava Gongadze, nor Lesia Oleh Kuzan, a political consultant from Gongadze nor their lawyer have any doubt Lviv, as well as a friend of Gongadze, that this was a hired contractual killing, said Ms. Telychenko. expressed similar discontent. “I don’t see The attorney for the Gongadze family much progress in this case. Neither the also stated she is convinced the investiga- organizers nor the people who gave the Oleksander Synytsia /UNIAN tion to determine who actually ordered the actual orders in this killing have been Kyiv Mayor Leonid Chernovetskti speaking on March 11 at a press conference killing is being stymied by the Procurator established. There are too many gaps,” during which called demands for pre-term mayoral elections legally groundless General’s Office and that it would take at said Mr. Kuzan. “It seems to me that and sheer political provocations. least a year to come up with any concrete everyone knows exactly what happened in results. this case, but no one seems to be bringing Lesia Gongadze, the mother of the slain the evidence to the fore. Today’s govern- Got a group? journalist, has repeatedly expressed doubt ing bodies are not functioning in the inter- that the three individuals who were jailed est of its citizens and are not seeking out and subsequently convicted for the murder criminals,” Mr. Kuzan stated. Need The Weekly? of her son, are the ones responsible for her Yuri Hryhorenko, one of the defense son’s murder. “If they are the killers, let attorneys in the Gongadze murder case, Call our subscription department to find out how you may qualify them show where they kept the body and has declared that the verdict in the convic- for a group discount on your Weekly subscriptions. head of my son. Until I see his body, I tion of the three police officers is too cannot blame anyone for the murder,” said severe and warned that the sentence will (973) 292-9800 ext. 3042 Lesia Gongadze following the announced be appealed. 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 No. 12 Ukrainian Catholic of U.S.A. meet at St. Josaphat Eparchy in Parma Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia in Philadelphia. They also reflected on the experience of PARMA, Ohio – The Ukrainian Catholic hosting the Synod of Ukrainian Catholic Bishops of the United States met on Bishops in 2007 in the Philadelphia February 27-28 in the Eparchy of St. Archeparchy. Josaphat in Parma, Ohio. A snowstorm The U.S. Ukrainian Catholic bishops made it necessary for the bishops to meet in also reviewed the financial statements of St. Bishop Robert Moskal’s residence on the Josaphat Ukrainian Catholic Seminary in first day and then in the Chancery on the Washington, the major seminary serving all second day. four . The importance of the Participating were Metropolitan- preparation of candidates at St. Basil of the Ukrainian Catholic College in Stamford, Philadelphia Archeparchy, Bishop Moskal Conn., was also discussed. of the St. Josaphat Eparchy in Parma, The eparchs also shared information Bishop of the St. regarding the increasing costs to parishes of Nicholas Eparchy in Chicago, Bishop Paul clergy and staff medical plans, and the cost Chomnycky, OSBM, of the Stamford of administering the individual eparchies. Eparchy, and Vocation initiatives and the value of renew- of the Philadelphia Archeparchy. ing the offering of children’s bible camps The lengthy agenda provided for much were considered. discussion of common needs, including The continued importance and role of those that could benefit from increased col- eparchial newspapers was reviewed, and laborative initiatives. The bishops reflected ideas for observing the 50th anniversary of on the upcoming Synod’s core theme of the establishment of the Metropolitan See of evangelization, and its implication for iden- Philadelphia were discussed. During their meeting in Parma, Ohio (from left) are: Bishop Richard Seminack tity and ministry in the Ukrainian Catholic The bishops also received George (Eparchy of St. Nicholas, Chicago); Auxiliary Bishop John Bura (Archeparchy of Philadelphia); Metropolitan-Archbishop Stefan Soroka (Archeparchy of Church in the U.S.A. Haddad, liaison of the Supreme Council of Philadelphia); Bishop Robert Moskal (Eparchy of St. Josaphat, Parma); Bishop The bishops reflected on the 100th the Knights of Columbus to the Eastern , OSBM (Eparchy of Stamford, Conn.) anniversary celebrations of the arrival of the Churches. The value for the Ukrainian first Ukrainian Catholic bishop, the Most Catholic Church of the Knights of Rev. Stephen , OSBM, to the Columbus Council was reinforced, as was Such periodic gatherings of the eparchs collaboration on issues and needs common United States, which took place in the the role of Eastern Churches in the universal of the four Ukrainian Catholic eparchies in to the Ukrainian Catholic Church in this Ukrainian Catholic of the nature of the Knights of Columbus. the United States provide for discussion and country.

Advocate of Jewish-Ukrainian friendship visits Philadelphia by Nicholas Rudnytzky officers of the Ukrainian Federation of America and several members of the PHILADELPHIA – Yakiv Suslensky, Ukrainian community. the founder and president of the Jewish- Later that day, at a meeting sponsored Ukrainian Friendship Committee in by the St. Sophia Religious Association Jerusalem, visited the City of Brotherly of Ukrainian Catholics, U.S.A., and the Love on Monday, March 10. local chapter of the Shevchenko Mr. Suslensky, a former dissident and Scientific Society headed by Jaroslav prisoner of the Soviet gulag, is currently Zalipsky, Mr. Suslensky discussed the in the United States disseminating infor- upcoming conference and offered much mation on an upcoming conference on the information on the current status of topic “The Problems of Historical Jewish-Ukrainian relations. Memory and Negative Stereotypes in According to Mr. Suslensky, there is Jewish-Ukrainian Relations.” The confer- still much Ukrainophobia in Israel, but ence will be held in Kyiv in May. It has the situation is improving. When he and received the support of President Viktor his committee began their work 29 years Yushchenko, who met with Mr. Suslensky ago, there were but four Ukrainians rep- During their meeting in Philadelphia are: (seated, from left) Petro Kliuk, Yakiv during a recent visit to Israel and has resented in Yad Vashem, Israel’s memori- Suslensky, Vera Andrychyk, Leonid Rudnytzky, Bohdan Todoriv (standing) found a sponsor for the conference. al complex dedicated to the Holocaust. Zenia Chernyk, Ivan Danylenko, Vera Lashchyk, Marta Shyprykevych, Jaroslav During his stay in Philadelphia Mr. Today there are well over 2,000 and more Zalipsky, Marta Tarnawsky, Metodiy Boretsky and Oleksander Mykhayliuk. Suslensky attended a luncheon meeting will soon be accorded the title of held in his honor by the Philadelphia “Righteous.” New cases of Ukrainians being documented. nisced about his friendships with former Chapter of the Jewish-American who have saved Jews during the Nazi While discussing the activities of his Soviet Ukrainian dissidents, such as Committee that was attended also by occupation of Ukraine are constantly committee, Mr. Suslensky also remi- Yevhen Sverstiuk, Lev Lukianenko, the late Vyacheslav Chornovil and others, with whom he shared seven years of life in the prisons and concentration camps of the Soviet Union. Mr. Suslensky, who has been honored by all three Ukrainian presidents for his work, expects the upcoming Kyiv con- ference to contribute toward a better understanding of Ukrainian history. He said he hopes the conference will con- tribute toward a more objective view of such Ukrainian historical personages as Symon Petliura, Roman Shukhevych and others who have been unjustly maligned and vilified in the past. The almost two hour-long meeting was brought to a close by its chairman, Prof. Leonid Rudnytzky, who, in thank- ing the speaker for his presentation, referred to him as “an Israeli patriot with a Ukrainian heart.”

Insure and be sure. Join the UNA! No. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 11 Janice Kulyk Keefer wins 2008 Kobzar Literary Award by Oksana Zakydalsky identity, several members of Parliament and Ukraine’s ambassador to Canada, Ihor TORONTO – Janice Kulyk Keefer won Ostash, were among the attendees. Antanas the second biennial Kobzar Literary Award Sileika, artistic director of the Humber for her work of fiction, “The Ladies’ School for Writers, and Geoffrey Taylor, Lending Library.” The award was present- artistic director of the International ed at a ceremony and dinner held on Festival of Authors, represented the March 6 at the Palais Royale in Toronto. Canadian literary community. The event was attended by all four The four short-listed books for the short-listed authors – Ms. Kulyk Keefer of award – Ms. Kulyk Keefer’s “The Ladies Guelph, , Marusya Bociurkiw of Lending Library,” Ms. Bociurkiw’s Toronto, Roman Paul Fodchuk of “Comfort Food for Breakups,” Mr. Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Lisa Grekul of Fodchuk’s “Zhorna” and Ms. Grekul’s Kelowna/, , as “Leaving Shadows” – were chosen by a well as the board of directors of the panel of four adjudicators: writer Sharon Shevchenko Foundation and President Butala, historian Modris Eksteins, author Andriy Hladyshevsky. Laura Langston and editor John Metcalf. The Shevchenko Foundation, initiator The process of selecting the award win- of the Kobzar Literary Award, provides the ner, which ended with the Oscar-like sur- $25,000 award of which $20,000 is award- prise announcement on March 6 began ed to the author and $5,000 to the publish- two years ago, at which time a total of 18 Lu Taskey er for the promotion of the winning work. eligible works were submitted. Interest in Toasting the Kobzar Literary Award winner (from left) are: master of cere- Taking part in the ceremony were two of the Kobzar Award has accelerated since its monies Fred Keating, Shevchenko Foundation President Andriy Hladyshevsky, the Kobzar Literary Award’s honorary first announcement by the Shevchenko award-winner Janice Kulyk Keefer, and honorary patrons Sen. Raynell patrons, Sen. Raynell Andreychuk and Foundation in 2004 and the leadership of Andreychuk and Joy Kogawa. author Joy Kogawa. Dr. Christine Turkewych as its program Almost 300 guests attended the event, director. The Toronto Globe and Mail In presenting the award to Ms. Kulyk writers to explore Ukrainian Canadian which was organized by a volunteer com- highlighted the short list on the day of the Keefer, the president of the Shevchenko themes that are relevant to Canadians. The mittee co-chaired by Daria Diakowsky and event as well as informed its readers of Foundation, Mr. Hladyshevsky, underlined award raises the profiles of the works of all Alla Shklar. Jason Kenney, secretary of Ms. Kulyk Keefer’s win in its “Buzz” col- the vision of the foundation in establishing the finalists and encourages all Canadians state for multiculturalism and Canadian umn after the awards ceremony. it: to create opportunities for all Canadian to buy their books and read them.

Edmonton’s Kule Folklore Center celebrates book launch EDMONTON, Alberta – The Kule outside Ukraine. It is home to Folklorica, are now found. There are examples of early lore scholarship in the various parts of the Center for Ukrainian and Canadian Folklore the journal of the Slavic and East European lore, the stories and songs that are known Slavic world, including North America. The on March 9 celebrated the launch of “Slavic Folklore Association and a major interna- from manuscripts. This is followed by defi- books then offers examples of folklore used Folklore: A Handbook,” written by center tional publication in the field of folklore. nitions of the forms of folklore, verbal cul- in operas, paintings, written literature and member and Kule Chair of Ukrainian This journal is edited by Prof. Kononenko. ture such as songs, rhymes, tales; ritual cul- other elite culture. A lengthy bibliography, Ethnography Natalie Kononenko. The center produces a number of web- ture, such as weddings; and material culture including a list of Internet sources, con- Prof. Kononenko came to the University sites, including the new teaching materials such as houses and costume. Examples of cludes the volume. of Alberta in 2004 when the founder of the website aimed at students in the Ukrainian all these folklore forms appear in the next Prof. Kononenko said she hopes to fol- folklore center, Bohdan Medwidsky, bilingual program. This site is run by Peter chapter of the book. low this book with an English-language col- arranged for an endowed chair sponsored Holloway and Yanina Vihovska. Graduate This is followed by a discussion of folk- lection of Ukrainian epic poetry, or “dumy.” through the generosity of Peter and Doris students in the folklore program conduct Kule. interesting research in Ukrainian and Prof. Medwidsky, currently professor Ukrainian Canadian folklore and posters emeritus at the University of Alberta, began highlighting their work were on display at the formal proceedings of the book launch the book launch. by talking about promoting Ukrainian folk- Prof. Nahachewsky’s remarks were fol- lore scholarship and recruiting Prof. lowed by a short speech by Prof. A Ukrainian Summer Kononenko. Kononenko who showed how folklore is Appears May 4, 2008, in The Ukrainian Weekly His remarks were followed by a presen- important to the entire course of human life tation by Andriy Nahachewsky of the and how it helps adjusting to immigration to Huculak Chair of Ukrainian Folklore, who a new land. Her new book on Slavic folk- Travel to Ukraine and learn about your heritage... is director of the Kule Center. Prof. lore seeks to capture some of the magic of Nahachewsky spoke about the history of the this field and to provide examples from all Focus on Ukrainian studies, and earn college credit... program and its many accomplishments. areas of the Slavic world. Prof. Kononenko The center has grown rapidly, he said, and thanked the many people who helped her Or relax and enjoy the activities this growth is gaining momentum, both with the Slavic traditions with which she is through the work of its members and the less familiar. at the ever-popular Soyuzivka... generous support of its sponsors, like the The formal program was followed by a Kules. book signing. “Slavic Folklore: A How will you enjoy your Ukrainian summer? The center boasts the Bohdan Handbook” begins with a discussion of the Medwidsky Ukrainian Folklore Archive, Slavs: who they were, where they lived and Read our special section for information from those in the the largest repository of Ukrainian folklore how they migrated to the areas where they know on great destinations and unique activities!

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Andriy Chernevych Students Yanina Vihovska and Mariya Lesiv watch Prof. Natalie Kononenko sign copies of her book “Slavic Folklore: A Handbook” during a book launch on THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY March 9 at the Kule Center for Ukrainian and Canadian Folklore. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 No. 12 No. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 13 ‘Pysanka’ and ‘Rushnyk’ exhibition at The Ukrainian Museum heralds spring

Volodymyr Gritsik Pysanky with tree of life motifs from The Ukrainian Museum’s collection.

by Marta Baczynsky is at the forefront,” Ms. Wolynetz noted. Ms. Stachiw learned to embroider as a NEW YORK – The Ukrainian Museum young girl. She was fascinated with this is presenting its annual spring exhibition of art form and the pursuit of its mastery “pysanky,” or Ukrainian Easter eggs. This became the objective of her life. She stud- year the beautifully decorated eggs are ied all aspects of Ukrainian embroidery – shown in the company of “rushnyky,” or its tradition, significance, historical devel- ritual cloths, from the museum’s Folk Art opment and practical application. She con- Collection. Billed as “The Pysanka and the tributed greatly to the revival of interest in Rushnyk: Guardians of Life,” the exhibi- this art form and its popularization by tion is on view from March 21 through the teaching, lecturing and organizing exhibi- end of August. tions. “To this end – and simply for the Lubow Wolynetz, the curator of the Hanya Krill exhibition and of the Folk Art Collection, sheer love of embroidery – she produced A copy of an embroidered rushnyk from the eastern Podillia region, Vinnytsia explained that in the tradition of Ukrainian hundreds of embroidery items,” explained Oblast, central Ukraine features horizontal rows of sun and bird motifs. folk culture people practiced various cus- Ms. Wolynetz. Embroidered by Myroslava Stachiw and donated by her to The Ukrainian Museum. toms and rituals to ensure the blessings of The curator said that the examples of life and to ward off evil. Toward that end rushnyky in the exhibition “constitute an for herself are the magical, potent symbols Every spring the pysanka magic comes they created objects they believed held important part of Ms. Stachiw’s work,” of life and wishes for a productive future, alive at The Ukrainian Museum. magical powers of protection and which adding, “Most of their designs were metic- good fortune and happiness.” Hundreds of beautifully decorated eggs they used as talismans. “Among such arti- ulously copied from museum originals, Very much like the ritual cloth, the from the extensive Folk Art Collection cles, the pysanka and the rushnyk are of while others are her own compositions.” pysanka also is a talisman, and is associ- are displayed to show regional variations, greatest importance; to this day, they con- Rushnyky (ritual cloths) are inherent in ated with springtime and the renewal of styles, colors and decorative designs. A tinue to play a significant role in Ukrainian the traditional structure of Ukrainian folk life. The symbolic meanings of the comprehensive map of Ukraine shows the mores,” said Ms. Wolynetz. culture. They have always played a vital designs on the pysanky originated in pre- rich diversity in creativity in this art form The rushnyky on display in the exhibi- role in the lives of the people – in the ritu- Christian times as part of the celebration throughout the land. tion are from a splendid grouping of alistic decorations of the home and in var- of spring that welcomed the rebirth of In this year’s exhibition the rich bounty embroideries recently donated to the muse- ious ceremonies from birth to death. As nature. The symbols placed on the egg of Ukrainian folk culture is offered to the um’s Folk Art Collection by Myroslava Ms. Wolynetz explained: “A rushnyk tra- were also used as a means of controlling viewing public in the form of two exquisite Stachiw. These embroideries form the ditionally is made every time a child is forces in nature that were often incompre- art forms, both infused with rich traditions, major component of the exhibition. The born; additional rushnyky are created for hensible to ancient man. rituals and symbolic meanings. rushnyky are the handiwork of Ms. each auspicious occasion as the child In an attempt to understand their natu- The Ukrainian Museum was founded Stachiw and testify to her impeccable repu- matures and goes through life’s various ral environment, such as the appearance with the aim of preserving and sharing the tation as an expert in the field of Ukrainian rites of passage. The intricate designs and disappearance of the sun, the chang- Ukrainian experience. In its 32nd year of embroidery. “Among Ukrainian diaspora incorporated into the rushnyk by the ing seasons, birth and death, people select- operation – now in its newly built, spacious embroidery specialists, both theoretical and mother for her child, or by the young girl ed certain objects that through ritual and home – the museum continues to present practical, the name of Myroslava Stachiw for her beloved, for her future home, or the application of mysterious symbolic the wealth and beauty of the Ukrainian cul- signs were believed to have protective and ture in comprehensive exhibitions, through magical powers. education and via public programming. The pysanka and the rituals associated The Ukrainian Museum is located at with it were passed down from ancient 222 E. Sixth St., New York, NY 10003; times and cherished by each succeeding telephone, 212-228-0110; e-mail, generation. With the coming of Christianity [email protected]; webpage, to Ukraine, the pysanka tradition subse- www:ukrainianmuseum.org. Museum quently blended in with the Easter holiday hours are: 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday celebrating the Resurrection of Christ. through Sunday.

Hanya Krill Hanya Krill A view of a section of the exhibition “The Pysanka and the Rushnyk: Guardians An embroidered rushnyk designated for a wedding: two birds facing a centrally of Life.” The rushnyky (ritual cloths) were embroidered by Myroslava Stachiw placed cluster of grapes – a symbol of the newly married couple. and donated by her to The Ukrainian Museum; the pysanky are from The Embroidered by Myroslava Stachiw and donated by her to The Ukrainian Museum. Ukrainian Museum’s collection. 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 No. 12 CLACLASSSSIFIEDIFIEDSS Ukrainian Americans among top doctors TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL MARIA OSCISLAWSKI, (973) 292-9800 x 3040 or e-mail: [email protected] listed by New Jersey and Chicago magazines CHICAGO – Five Ukrainian obstetrics and gynecology in West American physicians were ranked as top Orange. 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He special- atrics in Wheaton and is affiliated with e-mail: [email protected] www.westarka.com Easter Hailky from Halychyna 7805 – VHS $20 + $5 shipping izes in diseases relating to human hor- Central Dupage Hospital. He is the mones. vice-president of the Illinois Branch of 16 Anniversary of Independence of Ukraine Daria Klachko, M.D., practices UMANA. FIRST QUALITY 2016 – DVD + VHS $25/$20 + $5 shipping UKRAINIAN TRADITIONAL- PROFESSIONALS power in his new post and reducing the MONUMENTS Future Russian PM... newly elected President Medvedev to the SERVING NY/NJ/CT REGION CEMETERIES (Continued from page 2) role of a ceremonial head of state. OBLAST flights of its territory by Western aircraft. Most of Mr. Putin’s cronies from the The Germans were later granted the right to KGB (siloviki) will, apparently, move with MEMORIALS him out of the Kremlin to the prime minis- transit military supplies to Afghanistan via P.O. BOX 746 ter’s office, which is known in Moscow as the Russian railroad system. Chester, NY 10918 the “White House.” With them will go real At present, NATO officials are negotiat- 845-469-4247 power and money. The number of deputy ing with Russian diplomats and generals BILINGUAL HOME APPOINTMENTS prime ministers in the Russian government about using Russian rail lines to send sup- will increase to accommodate Mr. Putin’s plies to troops deployed in Afghanistan comrades and to give him control over all under the NATO flag. There have been sections of executive power. This aggrega- reports of good progress in these negotia- tion of power may be accompanied by poli- tions (Kommersant, March 7; Financial cies that are more nationalistic. Mr. Putin’s Times, March 7). LAW OFFICES OF latest statements seem to exclude any seri- The NATO security operation in ous “liberalization” or “thaw” in Russian ZENON B. MASNYJ, ESQ. Afghanistan is already troubled by disagree- internal or foreign policies after Mr. ments within the alliance. Member-states Medvedev moves into the Kremlin (New are refusing to deploy their soldiers in com- Times, March 10). In the East Village since 1983 bat zones near the Pakistan border or pro- The only weak spot in the system of vide additional troops. If Moscow begins to power that Mr. Putin is building is the fact Serious personal injury, real estate actively undermine the “beyond the bounds that the Russian Constitution permits for personal and business use, rep- of the North Atlantic” operation by denying President Medvedev to dismiss him and his resentation of small and mid-size transit and overflight accesses, the troubled siloviki at any time. Certainly the new pres- businesses, securities arbitration, NATO operation may collapse. ident will not do anything of this sort any- divorce, wills and probate. This would be a major change in Russian time soon, say, this year, but further down foreign policy and Mr. Putin made the link the road no one can guarantee anything. Mr. (By Appointment Only) with enlargement blunt: leave Georgia and Medvedev may slowly be consolidating Ukraine alone, or lose in Afghanistan. A support within the bureaucracy. Army gen- MERCHANDISE 157 SECOND AVENUE number of Western European NATO states erals increasingly disgruntled by Mr. Putin seem to have gotten the message and are NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10003 and his siloviki may offer an important apparently ready to freeze moves to accept alternative power base. A possible future (212) 477-3002 Georgia and Ukraine. power fight may change a lot in Russia, It is increasingly clear to observers in though the contest will most likely be about Moscow that Mr. Putin is planning to be a who is the bigger nationalist – not who is GEORGE B. KORDUBA grand prime minister – consolidating all real more liberal. Counsellor at Law Emphasis on Real Estate, Wills, Trusts and Elder Law Ward Witty Drive, P.O. Box 249 MONTVILLE, NJ 07045 NATO secretary general. The president Hours by Appointment Tel.: (973) 335-4555 Bush to visit ... and Mrs. Bush will also travel to Croatia, (Continued from page 1) where he will meet with the president and OPPORTUNITIES challenges.” prime minister of Croatia and leaders of The White House press secretary’s those countries Allied leaders decide to statement also noted: invite to join NATO at the Bucharest sum- Seeking Ukrainian-speaking childcare “The president will have a bilateral pro- mit. provider for 9-month-old several days gram in Kyiv, Ukraine, on April 1, 2008, “NATO’s ongoing transformation and per week in Morris County, NJ. For including meetings with the president and enlargement has been a historic success in more information call 201-859-3296. prime minister of Ukraine. The president bolstering the alliance, promoting peace and Mrs. Bush will then travel to and security, and advancing freedom and Bucharest, Romania, to participate in the democracy in Central and Eastern Europe. Run your advertisement here, NATO Summit on April 2-4. In addition The president and Mrs. Bush’s visit to in The Ukrainian Weekly’s to summit events, President Bush will Ukraine, Romania and Croatia will under- CLASSIFIEDS section. have bilateral meetings with the president score the importance of fostering a Europe and prime minister of Romania and the whole, free and at peace.” No. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 15

It is with deep sorrow that we share with family and friends that on Sunday, March 16, 2008, by the will of the Lord, passed into eternity at the age of 84 our beloved mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, and sister Anna Jakowiw née Hrycenko Born on January 8, 1924, in Tatariv, Hutsulshchyna, Ukraine.

Anna took an active role in the community life in New York City and Hunter. She was friendly, sensitive to the needs of others, a caring mother and grandmother.

PARASTAS was held on Thursday, March 20, 2008 at Aston-Basagic Funeral Home in Hunter, NY.

REQUIEM SERVICES were held on Friday, March 21 at St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church in Hunter, NY, followed by interment at the Holy Spirit Cemetery in Hamptonburg, NY.

In profound sorrow:

Daughter Maria Jakowiw-Pendzola Sons Nicholas with wife Orysia Roman with wife Natalka Grandchildren Christina Pendzola-Vitovych with husband Oleh Switlana Breigle with husband Jeffrey Nicholas Jakowiw with wife Joann Laryssa Jakowiw Lesia Jakowiw Great-grandchildren Xenia Vitovych Liam (Kolya) Jakowiw Laura Breigle In-laws Michael Pendzola Maria Bolonnyj Michael Hayes with family Sister Maria Semion-Belfiore with family Other family members and relatives in Ukraine, Canada and US. Eternal memory!

The employees of the Ukrainian National Association, It is with deep sorrow that we share with relatives and friends that on Svoboda and The Ukrainian Weekly would like to extend March 10, 2008, passed into eternity our beloved husband, son, our most sincere sympathy to our colleague Mariyka brother, and uncle Pedzola, her brother Nicholas and Roman, and daughter Christina upon the passing on Sunday, March 6, 2008, Dr Alexander Sosiak of their mother and grandmother Born on December 10, 1958 in Manhattan, New York

Anna Jakowiw Visitation and parastas were held on March 14, 2008 at Krauss Funeral Home in Franklin Square, N.Y. Funeral services were held at St. Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church in Ozone Park on March 15, We truly hope that your memories of happier moments will help ease 2008. Burial at St. Charles Cemetery in East Farmingdale. your pain. He is survived by:

Wife Julie May she rest in peace. Father Wasyl Sister Marianne Woloszyn with husband Gregory and daughters Katya and Kalyna (his god daughter) DEATH ANNOUNCEMENTS Uncle Jaroslaw with wife Stella and family Michael with wife Anastasia and family to be published in The Ukrainian Weekly – in the Ukrainian or English language – are accepted by mail, courier, fax, phone or e-mail. Aunts Masrusia with family Anna with family Deadline: Tuesday noon before the newspaper’s date of issue. (The Weekly goes to press early Friday mornings.) In-Laws Frank and Julia Sommers with family

Rate: $7.50 per column-inch. As well as other family members and relatives in the United States, Ukraine and Germany. Information should be addressed to the attention of the Advertising Department and sent to: The Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280 (NB: please do not include post office box if sending via courier), Parsippany, N.J. 07054; Instead of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his fax, (973) 644-9510; telephone, (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040; memory to: e-mail, [email protected]. – Memorial Sloan Kettering Sarcoma Research Fund, PO Box 750, New York, NY 10131 Please include the daytime phone number of a contact person. – The Ukrainian Museum, 222 East 6th Street, New York, NY 10003 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 No. 12 Carpathian Ski Club hosts 54th annual races at Hunter Mountain by Roma Hadzewycz children and their older siblings to parents. The youngest competitor this year was 3- HUNTER, N.Y. – Seventy-seven skiers year-old Olena Kucher; the second of all ages, and a lone teenage snowboarder youngest was 4-year-old Marko Wojcickyj. braved soaking rain to compete on Present at the 2008 KLK ski races was Saturday, March 8, in the 54th annual ski Ukraine’s Ambassador to the United races organized by the Carpathian Ski Nations Yuriy Sergeyev and his wife, Club. Nataliya, who observed the competition Known by its Ukrainian-based acronym and later attended the awards dinner held at as KLK, the club this year held its races at the Hunter Mountain Ski Lodge. Hunter Mountain. Skiers competed in age Over 130 persons, including the racers groups ranging from under 4 to over 60; and their families plus longtime supporters this year the group of men age 45-59 drew of KLK, attended the dinner, during which the largest number of racers. trophies were awarded to the winners in The skiers and snowboarder raced on each age group. Second- and third-place two parallel NASTAR-sanctioned courses; finishers received medals; all other com- competitors had one run on each of the petitors received a KLK medal as a courses. (NASTAR stands for National memento. An unprecedented number of Standard Race; it is the world’s largest pub- skiers qualified for NASTAR recognition: lic recreational ski program.) nine platinum, 25 gold, 20 silver and 15 A popular family event, the ski races bronze pins were handed out to the KLK attract all generations, from the youngest racers.

Roma Hadzewycz Winners and competitors in the group of men age 35-44: (from left) Terence Filewych (second place), Taras Odulak, Jason Taylor (third place), Adrian Stasiuk, Eri Palydowycz (champion), Oleh Slupchynskyj and Roman Chwyl.

The dinner was opened by KLK what is planned to be an annual event), the President Erko Palydowycz, who wel- ambassador quipped: “We also saw that comed all and introduced the special guests apparently you can play golf on skis.” present. Mr. Sergeyev underscored that what Addressing the dinner participants, most impressed him was the number of Ambassador Sergeyev prefaced his children racing. “This is fantastic – this is remarks by observing: “Today we saw that the future,” he commented. He went on to KLK skiers race whether or not there is announce that, for the first time ever, tro- snow.” Referring to a poster for the KLK phies funded by Ukraine’s Permanent golf outing slated for May 2 (the first of Mission to the United Nations would be

Damian Kozak (left), champion among boys age 9-10 and the fastest male skier of 2008, with fellow competitors (from left) Peter Lenchur (second place), Andrew Stasiuk and Greg Lopatynsky (third place). KLK 2008 race results Girls age 4 and under Ariadna Bach Boys’ Snowboard 1. Olena Kucher Marybeth Palydowycz 1. Zdan Korduba Natalka Iwanczuk Girls age 7-8 Roksolana Kyzyk Men age 20-25 1. Diana Blyznak 1. Adrian Rybak 2. Christina Bach Boys age 4 and under 2. Bryce Edwards 1. Marko Wojcickyj 3. Adrian Kochan Girls age 9-10 Orest Horechyy 1. Natalie Blyznak Boys age 5-6 Darian Fedash 2. Taisa Sorobay 1. Mark Blyznak Markian Hadzewycz 3. Maya Lopatynsky 2. Stepan Sorobay Darian Chornodolski Ruta Odulak Ambassador Yuriy Sergeyev (left) and his wife, Nataliya (right) present trophies Boys age 7-8 Men age 35-44 funded by Ukaine’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations to the most promising Girls age 11-12 1. Stephan Stasiuk 1. Eri Palydowycz girl and boy skiers, Katrina Kozak and Severin Palydowycz. 1. Stephanie Bitcon 2. Danilo Kyzyk 2. Terence Filewych 2. Katherine Lenchur 3. Matthew Bach 3. Jason Taylor 3. Christine Lenchur Alexander Iwaskiw Oleh Slupchynskyj Larysa Iwaskiw Roman Chwyl Nadia Olesnycky Boys age 9-10 Adrian Stasiuk 1. Damian Kozak Taras Odulak 2. Peter Lenchur Girls age 13-14 3. Greg Lopatynsky Men age 45-59 1. Katrina Kozak Andrew Stasiuk 1. Andy Kozak 2. Natalia Hryhorowych 2. Peter Strutynsky 3. Katya Palydowycz Boys age 11-12 3. Andrij Kyzyk 1. Yevhen Dubyk Peter Lenchur Girls/women age 18-24 2. Denis Finn Andrey Sonevytsky 1. Tatiana Ripnick Yuriy Kucher 2. Roxanna Kobziar Boys are 13-14 Vlodko Temnycky 1. Adrian Iwaskiw Yuriy Horechyy Women age 33-44 2. Gregory Olesnycky Stefan Wojcickyj 1. Marta Dubyk Nestor Blyznak 2. Chrystyna Sorobay Boys age 15-19 Roman Sorobay 3. Mariana Liucha 1. Severin Palydowycz Mark Bach 2. Alex Hryhorowych Women age 45 and over 3. Paul Hadzewycz Men age 60 and over 1. Christa Kozak Mark Kochan 1. Zenon Stakhiv 2. Natalia Wojcickyj Vlad Finn 2. Orest Fedash 3. Ruth Lenchur 3. Theodor Kostiuk Skiers in the girls age 9-10 group: (from left) Natalie Blyznak (first place), Taisa Sorobay (second place), Maya Lopatynsky (third place) and Ruta Odulak. No. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 17 presented to the most promising boy and girl skiers. Also introduced to the dinner attendees was Volodymyr Dotsiak of Ivano- Frankivsk, Ukraine, who is organizing a KLK chapter in that western Ukrainian city. The Carpathian Ski Club, which was founded in 1924 in Ukraine, was reborn there in 1989. The program was then taken over by mistress of ceremonies Vira Popel, KLK vice-president, who was assisted by Orest Fedash, KLK’s skiing coordinator. Once the trophies and medals were pre- sented for each age group, the winners of the traveling trophies for the male and female skiers who posted the fasted race times were announced: 10-year-old Damian Kozak (whose time was 23.66) and 13-year-old Katya Palydowycz (26.19). The names of the winners are inscribed on the trophies; no repeat win- ners are allowed. The most promising skiers awards were then presented by Ambassador and Mrs. Three-year-old Olena Kucher is excit- Ambassador Yuriy Sergeyev and Nataliya Sergeyev with KLK President Erko Sergeyev to 15-year-old Severin ed about winning a skiing medal in the Palydowycz (right). Palydowycz and 13-year-old Katrina youngest age group. Kozak. At the conclusion of the dinner, KLK Also read to the audience was a letter of President Erko Palydowycz was honored greetings to KLK race participants from on the occasion of his 70th birthday for his Ukraine’s Minister of Family, Youth and many years of service as a Ukrainian com- Sports Yurii Pavlenko, who announced that munity and sports activist, teacher, sports a traveling trophy recognizing KLK’s best trainer and singer with an award and letter athletes will be funded by his ministry. from President Viktor Yushchenko of Minister Pavlenko also addressed Mr. Ukraine. Mr. Yushchenko underscored that Palydowycz in his letter, wishing the KLK the jubilarian had “dedicated his life to the president “good health, many years, vigor preservation by Ukrainians of their nation- and enthusiasm to produce new genera- al identity, unity and patriotic upbringing.” tions of Ukrainian champions.”

George Popel of KLK congratulates the winners in the group of women age 33- 44: (from left) Marta Dubyk (champion), Mariana Liucha (third place) and Chrystyna Sorobay (second place).

THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY Visit our archive on the Internet at: http://www.ukrweekly.com/

The fastest skier among females in 2007, Natalia Hryhorowycz (right), presents the traveling trophy to the fastest female skier of the 2008 races, Katya Palydowycz.

KLK officer Adia Fedash with the winners in the group of men over 60: (from left) Theodor Kostiuk (third place), Zenon Stakhiv (first place) and Orest Fedash (second place). 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 No. 12 No. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 19

Ukrainian pro hockey update by Ihor Stelmach

Tkachuk not blue December 11, 2007, home game against try. Instead, he does try to be an example $12.5 million contract this past summer. Edmonton. for those living in the projects of inner-city But without his deadly playmaking center, about 1,000th NHL game Toronto. Parise becomes just your average Joe on Metropolit knows “I guess there are a few people who are the wing. The St. Louis Blues hockey club has living vicariously through me,” said Coming off a spectacular 17G-25A- experienced no shortage of milestone route to stability Metropolit, the father of three children, in 42PTS rookie season, Zajac is locked into moments the past two seasons. In 2006- his chat with The Hockey News. “They his three-year entry level contract which 2007 both Bill Guerin and Doug Weight The center ice position should be well- don’t have too much going on in their pays him $984,000 this season and next. achieved the 1,000 games played plateau as manned for many years to come for the lives.” Though a year younger and that much less members of the Blues. On December 1, . Having selected Zach Fortunately, again, Metropolit does. He experienced as an NHLer, there is no doubt 2007, veteran joined his Hamill and Phil Kessel in the first round of survived a late-season trade from Atlanta to the young pivot greatly contributed to celebrated one-time teammates on the the past two entry drafts to go with fourth- St. Louis in the (Keith Tkachuk-to-Atlanta Parise’s breakout season and generous new 1,000 games list. (Ironically the three could year youngster Patrice Bergeron (only 22 deal), where the rebuilding Blues basically contract. not celebrate Tkachuk’s special moment years old) and 21-year-old rookie David took him as an add-on. After playing in 77 Coming into this, his sophomore season, together since Guerin left town as a free Krejci, the Bruins have four pivotmen other games and managing a very solid 14 goals Zajac has flip-flopped between the No. 1 agent-in-waiting, following a trade dead- organizations can only dream about. Future plus 19 assists for 33 points, it was enough and No. 2 center slots, usually skating on a line deal to San Jose.) potential? Limitless. Current drawback? for a training camp invite with the Boston line with Parise and right-winger Brian Originally drafted as the first selection Very inexperienced. Strategy for 2007- Bruins. Gionta. New Devils coach Brent Sutter of the Winnipeg Jets (19th overall) in the 2008? Find a proven veteran, preferably an Invited as a tryout, Metropolit beat the usually utilizes Zajac on the Devils’ first 1990 NHL entry draft, the 6-foot-2, 230- inexpensive one. odds once again, earning a one-year, power-play unit, another indication of his pound Ukrainian left-winger-turned-center Hello, Glen Metropolit. Meet a young $500,000 contract. A surprise addition as a superior passing skills. has spent seven seasons as a member of the man who admittedly counts his blessings number centerman, he’s made his way up The 6-foot-2, 205-pound Winnipeg Blues. That’s seven of a total 15 years in on a daily basis. After three years in Europe the forward lines’ depth chart to as high as native has a long reach and can absorb pun- the league. he fought his way (through effort, not No. 2, including duty in even-strength and ishment from opposing checkers and “I would say it’s pretty special. It’s hard fisticuffs) back into the National Hockey power-play roles. Now 33, he kills penal- defenders. Most of the time, though, he to get in the NHL, and it’s more difficult to League. Last season with the upstart ties and is counted on to take key defensive doesn’t have to take too much abuse due to stay for a long time. I’m pretty proud of he experienced a little and offensive zone face-offs. Having his deceptive skating ability and slick puck- that,” Tkachuk said in a quick interview hot streak, scoring a quick 10 points in a notched 11 goals and 16 assists with some handling artistry. New Devils coach Sutter with St. Louis Blues online writer Chris 10-or-so-day period. He found himself cen- 20 games left in the regular season, is slowly increasing Zajac’s workload, so a Pinkert. “I’m pretty excited, especially to tering two guys named Marian Hossa and Metropolit hoped to exceed his career-high 20+ season is a reasonable expecta- do it as a St. Louis Blue.” Slava Kozlov – not too shabby a pair of point totals set in 2006-2007. tion. Nevertheless, this young man’s As of December 1, 2007, Tkachuk was linemates. It was this streak that ultimately strongest asset is his playmaking ability, the 224th player in NHL history to reach convinced Metropolit he had what it took which translates into making his linemates 1,000-games-played milestone, and only to stay in the NHL this time around. Zajac a bargain better players. Zajac has outstanding chem- the 28th American-born player to hit the The fact that Metropolit succeeded in for N.J. Devils istry with Parise. This potent duo should be mark. working his way back into the league at the a top forward line in New Jersey for many His old centerman and fellow Blue for age of 32 was a major accomplishment. Ukrainian Travis Zajac ranks as the New years to come. many a year, Weight, who notched his But this was not his first case of overcom- Jersey Devils’ bargain of the year. After his Zajac’s next contract isn’s likely to be 1,000th game played last season, surmised ing a major obstacle in his life. Graduating breakout 31-goal season last year, left- such a bargain for the Devils. But, rest Tkachuk probably had butterflies in his from a youth of poverty and crime was an winger Zach Parise inked a four-year, assured, he’ll be worth every dollar. stomach before his special night. even bigger story. “Coming into this league, you don’t Young Metropolit was born and reared think you’re ever going to make that in one of inner-city Toronto’s most poverty- amount of games. You just want to make stricken, drug-riddled areas. How bad was the team to start with,” Weight told Pinkert. it growing up there? Well, younger brother, “To have longevity and a great career, as Troy, is currently serving a 16-year prison much as it’s just another game, it’s pretty term for kidnapping, assaulting and rob- exciting.” bing a well-known Toronto attorney and his After a rookie season of only 17 games wife in 1999. And Glen has never met his with Winnipeg when he tallied a mere three biological father. He actually hasn’t seen goals and eight assists for 11 points, his brother in several years because Tkachuk has gone on to record over 960 Canadian penal institutions keep transfer- more points. Indeed, heading into March ring him around. and this season’s final quarter, Tkachuk had “I don’t really know where he is or how the distinct possibility of achieving the much time he has left until parole,” even more feted 500-goal club. If he pro- Metropolit said in a conversation with Ken duced at slightly more than a point-per- Campbell of The Hockey News. “I ask my game clip through his final 20 games, he mom and she doesn’t know either. I know also had an outside shot of hitting 1,000 they had him in maximum security in total points. Three such major milestones and he was in St. John’s for a would make it a year to remember. while. And I don’t know what kind of trou- Up to now in his storied career, ble he has been in there. You could get Tkachuk’s prior claim to personal fame was parole in eight years, but not if you’ve been the 1996-1997 campaign, when he became causing trouble.” the only U.S.-born player in league history The only trouble older brother Glen to lead the league in goal scoring with 52 causes is to the opposition on the ice. goals. This is a record that still stands. Metropolit played 103 games for the Late in the memorable December 1, and Tampa Bay 2007, game, a Blues’ victory, assistant cap- Lightning in the first part of his NHL tain Tkachuk found himself staring at a par- career. He was never drafted, working his tially empty net. Instead of pulling the trig- way up all the way from the ECHL. He has ger for an easy marker and making the survived the NHL waiver wire on three night even more memorable, he very separate occasions. His return to part two unselfishly dished the puck over to Weight. of his NHL career came after two years “We were hoping that Keith would get playing with in Finland and one one there at the end, too,” Blues coach with Lugano of the Swiss League, where Andy Murray told Pinkert. “What a he led all scorers with 63 points. In the description of a team player. He tried to summer of 2006 he signed with Atlanta as give Doug a pass, and that’s a statement for a free agent. the player and the person.” His scoring championship in The Blues first acquired Tkachuk in a Switzerland earned him a spot with the March 2001 trade with Phoenix (once Canadian team at the 2006 World Winnipeg), sending the trio of Michael Championship. Skating on the larger Handzus, Ladislav Nagy and Jeff Taffe, European ice surface allowed him to focus plus a 2002 draft choice, to the Coyotes for on improving his speed. Reports were he the Ukrainian superstar. returned to the NHL a faster skater. As fast The Blues organization honored as he may be now on skates, he’ll never be Tkachuk with a special ceremony before its able to outskate his past. He doesn’t even 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 No. 12

sure of two intermediary companies, NEWSBRIEFS RosUkrEnergo and UkrHazEnergo, that (Continued from page 2) have been the exclusive deliverers of gas to government should “be settled exclusively Ukraine since January 2006. In the absence on the legal level,” and not through an arbi- of the intermediaries, Ukraine agreed to trary political decision. (RFE/RL allow Gazprom to directly deliver at least Newsline) 7.5 billion cubic meters of gas – about 10 percent of its annual needs – to Ukrainian Rada resolution on Kyiv elections enterprises. (RFE/RL Newsline) KYIV – The Verkhovna Rada on March NATO official signals open door 18 passed a resolution on early elections for Kyiv mayor, RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service BRUSSELS – NATO Secretary-General reported. The resolution was approved Jaap de Hoop Scheffer on March 13 said immediately after a government investiga- that the possibility of granting Ukraine and tive commission reported on the activities Georgia NATO Membership Action Plans of the Kyiv authorities. The election must at the alliance’s summit in Bucharest on be held within 70 days of the publication of April 2-4 is still under consideration, the resolution. Prime Minister Yulia RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service reported. “I Tymoshenko had threatened that her bloc believe our Bucharest summit should also would boycott meetings of the Rada until it send a clear signal to Ukraine and Georgia approved the pre-term election. (RFE/RL that NATO’s door remains open for them Newsline) too,” Mr. de Hoop Scheffer said. In mid- January Ukrainian President Viktor Rada passes bill on Cabinet Yushchenko, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko and Verkhovna Rada KYIV – The Verkhovna Rada on March Chairman Arseniy Yatsenyuk formally 18 passed a bill on the Cabinet of Ministers asked Mr. de Hoop Scheffer to grant in the first reading, RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Ukraine a Membership Action Plan. The Service reported. The bill was supported by request triggered a lengthy crisis in the the coalition of the Yulia Tymoshenko Bloc Ukrainian Parliament and a sharp reaction (YTB) and the Our Ukraine – People’s from Russia, which said it will target Self-Defense bloc (OU-PSD) as well as the Ukraine with its missiles if Ukraine moves Volodymyr Lytvyn bloc. The bill on the closer to NATO. Mr. de Hoop Scheffer said Cabinet of Ministers was submitted to that Russian President Vladimir Putin “has Parliament by President Viktor Yushchenko said that he will attend the [Bucharest] and provides for the strengthening of the summit. No one expects, of course, that he president’s authority at the cost of the gov- will stay silent on issues such as Kosovo, ernment. In particular, it gives ministers the the [Conventional Forces in Europe] treaty right to nominate their deputies, but it or NATO enlargement. But we must not let deprives the prime minister of the right to our differences on those and other issues, coordinate the activities of ministries and like missile defense, disguise the very real other executive institutions. The bill subor- progress that NATO and Russia have made dinates the government to decisions adopt- in a number of other areas.” Some NATO ed by the National Security and Defense members, including Germany, oppose Council and approved by the president. Ms. granting Ukraine a NATO Membership Tymoshenko finally agreed to consider the Action Plan at the April summit. (RFE/RL bill on the Cabinet of Ministers provided Newsline) that a resolution on the mayoral election was also included on the agenda. (RFE/RL NATO chief on Putin’s stance Newsline) WARSAW – Secretary-General Jaap de Contract signed on direct gas supplies Hoop Scheffer said in Warsaw on March 13 that he hopes to repair relations with KYIV – Ukrainian gas operator Russia at the April 2-4 NATO summit in Naftohaz Ukrayiny and Russian gas Bucharest, Reuters reported. He added that monopoly Gazprom on March 13 signed a “we want to deepen our cooperation and contract on direct gas supplies to Ukraine continue our dialogue. As far as NATO is since the beginning of March and resolved concerned, there are really no red lines and a dispute surrounding Russian gas that was no limits on how far our relationship with delivered to Ukraine in January and Russia can go.” Alluding to Russian sensi- February, RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service tivities about NATO expansion and the pro- reported. “Naftohaz Ukrayiny and posed U.S. missile-defense program, he Gazprom signed a contract defining the said: “I hope that President [Vladimir] terms of interaction between our two com- Putin would come to Bucharest with a sim- panies for this year. In particular, it stipu- ilarly open mind and... be prepared together lates the terms of payment for gas that was with his NATO colleagues to give the already delivered in January and February; cooperation a political push again and that applies both to Central Asian gas, much-needed strategic quality.” Mr. de which will be paid for according to the Hoop Scheffer noted that NATO will scheme that existed at the beginning of the “reach out” to Bosnia-Herzegovina and year, and Russian gas,” Gazprom Montenegro at the summit, but he declined spokesman Sergei Kupriyanov said. “As to comment on the possibility of Ukraine for gas supplies [to Ukraine] in March and and Georgia being offered Membership indeed until the end of this year, the direct Action Plans. Georgian commentators have buyer of gas at the Russian-Ukrainian bor- suggested that Mr. Putin would not have der will be Naftohaz Ukrayiny, while accepted an invitation to Bucharest unless Gazprom will be able to deliver no less he had received cast-iron assurances that than 7.5 billion cubic meters of gas directly Georgia and Ukraine would not be offered to industrial consumers in Ukraine,” Mr. Membership Action Plans. (RFE/RL Kupriyanov said. Gazprom supplies Newsline) Ukraine with a mix of cheap Central Asian gas and more expensive gas extracted in Tymoshenko attracts European investors Russia. Usually the share of Russian- BRUSSELS – Ukraine’s Prime Minister extracted gas is less than one-fourth, and Yulia Tymoshenko said on March 10 in Ukraine currently pays $179.5 per 1,000 Brussels that her government will ensure cubic meters. In January and February, the transparency of privatization processes however, the percentage of Russia-extract- in Ukraine, as well as equal conditions for ed gas delivered to Ukraine was signifi- foreign investors’ access to the Ukrainian cantly higher, and Gazprom therefore market, RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service demanded a rate of $315 per 1,000 cubic reported. “We have pretty good macro-eco- meters. Naftohaz Ukrayiny agreed to the nomic indexes [allowing us to] become a demand, but the two sides agreed that trustworthy partner of the European Ukraine could pay part of its debt in kind Union,” Ms. Tymoshenko said. “Within with gas from its storage facilities. The signing of the contract also means the clo- (Continued on page 21) No. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 21

Deploying gas pipelines, banks and embar- NEWSBRIEFS goes instead of tanks and missiles, it has UNA SENIORS’ CONFERENCE (Continued from page 20) intimidated, or tried to intimidate, many of Sunday, June 8-13, 2008 three or four months, we will privatize its neighbors. A Swedish researcher has Ukrtelekom [Ukraine’s largest telecommu- identified 55 cases of energy cutoffs or SOYUZIVKA nications company], chemical plants and threatened cutoffs between 1992 and 2006. Save this date for the Seniors’ Week power industry enterprises,” she said. The While ‘technical’ reasons were usually government on February 6 approved a cited, most of the cutoffs just happened to Make your reservations for the UNA Seniors’ Conference which will be held at detailed plan for the allocation of occur when Moscow wished to obtain SOYUZIVKA cultural centre, beginning Sunday, June 8th, starting with wine and Ukrtelekom’s shares: 25 percent plus one some political or economic advantage, such cheese through Friday, June 13th, 2008 including brunch. Registration: Sunday & share will remain state property, while as influencing an election or letting state- Monday morning. All inclusive 5 nights, all meals, banquet, taxes and gratuities 67.79 percent will be sold at auction. controlled companies like Gazprom buy included, entertainment and special speakers. We encourage participants to wear (RFE/RL Newsline) into energy infrastructure.” Mr. Garton Ash Ukrainian embroidery during the banquet and to bring artifacts to be auctioned off also noted that Russia “calls itself a sover- during our evening auction for the benefit of the Seniors’ Club. Ukraine, Poland agree on border traffic eign democracy. But the difference between a democracy and a sovereign WARSAW – Ukrainian Foreign Affairs UNA members democracy is like that between a jacket and Minister Volodymyr Ohryzko and his Single occupancy $425 – double $355 pp a straitjacket.” (RFE/RL Newsline) Polish counterpart, Radoslaw Sikorski, on Per night – Single $100 – Double $82 pp March 4 in Warsaw initialed an agreement Poland on relations with Russia on the rules of local traffic within the Non UNA members Ukrainian-Polish border zone, RFE/RL’s WARSAW – Polish Prime Minister Single occupancy $475- double $373 pp Ukrainian Service reported. The agreement Donald Tusk said in Warsaw on March 6 Per night – Single $110 – Double $90 pp is a step toward easing tensions that that he hopes to work out a deal within the BANQUET & ENTERTAINMENT only $35 pp emerged after Poland in December 2007 European Union that will enable the bloc to joined the Schengen free-transit zone. launch talks with Russia on a new Call SOYUZIVKA Tel: 845-626-5641 – Register early. Ukrainian residents living in the 50-kilo- Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, Limited space available. which Poland earlier blocked because of meter border zone have blocked check- Contact local senior clubs and organize a bus from your area. Russian restrictions on Polish agricultural points several times, demanding greater For further information please call Oksana Trytjak exports, Reuters reported. “I see no big freedom of movement across the border. Tel: 973 292-9800 X 3071 The agreement on local border traffic must problems in working out a negotiating be signed at the intergovernmental level mandate within the EU, and Poland will Senior Citizens’ Week is: and approved by the parliaments of both certainly not be an obstacle to lifting the FUN, AFFORDABLE AND INTERESTING - countries. (RFE/RL Newsline) veto,” he said. Mr. Tusk stressed the impor- WE WELCOME GUESTS! COME ONE, COME ALL! tance of the EU speaking to Russia with Ukraine to help build Belarus plant “one voice.” He argued that “we must treat MIENSK – After meeting with his Russia with no fear and no fascination, and Ukrainian counterpart, Oleksander see it as a separate political entity which is Turchynov, in Miensk, Belarusian First not pushing for integration with the EU. Deputy Prime Minister Uladzimir [Russia is] an entity with its own aspira- Syamashka said on February 29 that tions and interests that are sometimes in Ukraine will assist Belarus in building its line with and sometimes in contradiction to first nuclear power plant, Belapan and the ones of the European community.” He RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service reported. Mr. again criticized the planned Russian- Syamashka said that the Kyiv-based German Nord Stream pipeline, saying that Energoproyekt research institute will help “we have little say on whether the pipeline Belarusian experts to select an appropriate is built or not. And to the Russians and site for the plant and that the Belarusian Germans, who want to build the most authorities also intend to buy some equip- expensive pipeline in history, we say they ment for the plant from Ukraine. The cannot count on our acceptance.” The Belarusian Security Council in mid- pipeline would transport Russian gas to January made “an ultimate political deci- Germany via the floor of the Baltic Sea. sion” regarding the construction of a Poland, Sweden, Finland and the Baltic nuclear power plant in the country and states all object to Nord Stream on political President Alyaksandr Lukashenka called or ecological grounds or both. Many Polish for speeding up the necessary preparations. critics believe that the pipeline will enable According to Belarusian authorities, the Gazprom to continue to supply Western plant will cost $4 billion and is expected to European customers if Russia cuts off start operating in 2018. (RFE/RL deliveries to Poland for political reasons. Newsline) (RFE/RL Newsline) Bush: Russia not a threat to peace Czech minister speaks on Russia WASHINGTON – President George W. PRAGUE – Czech Foreign Minister Bush and Czech Prime Minister Miroslav Karel Schwarzenberg said in an interview Topolanek came close on February 27 to with the German weekly Die Zeit of March concluding an agreement in Washington on 6 that he is “disturbed” by the course of Czech participation in the proposed U.S. Russia’s post-Communist political evolu- missile-defense project, international media tion. He argued that the West did not do reported. Mr. Topolanek said that “there are enough in the 1990s to help Russia evolve only three words remaining [to be into a democracy because many Westerners resolved]. Sometimes one word is so believed that “democracy would develop important it can ruin everything, but these by itself.” He said that Russia faces “enor- [remaining words] are not key issues, and mous problems” at home because of poor we will resolve them.” Mr. Bush noted that infrastructure, income inequality and a “there’s a will to get this done for the sake democracy deficit. He added that Russia of mutual security and for the sake of has not found adequate ways to make use peace.” He stressed that “Russia is not a of its income from oil and gas sales. He threat to peace. Regimes that adhere to noted that the West should seek to develop extremist ideologies, which may have the ties to Russia, “and not only to the people capability of launching weapons at those of at the top,” while also being ready to con- us who love freedom, they are the threats to front Moscow over differences, such as peace. And the missile-defense system is when individual Russian generals publicly aimed to deal with those threats.” (RFE/RL threaten foreign countries. Asked his opin- Newsline) ion of President Vladimir Putin, Mr. Scholar comments on ‘Russian wolf’ Schwarzenberg replied that Mr. Putin “is well-known to be proud that he is a MANCHESTER, England – British Chekist.” In response to a question about scholar Timothy Garton Ash warned in The Mr. Putin’s threat to target Warsaw and Guardian of February 28 that Europe must Prague with missiles, Mr. Schwarzenberg be united in its approach to Russia if it is to said that he wonders against whom those be taken seriously in the Kremlin. He missiles have been directed until now. “It is argued that “the Russian wolf has run rings very nice of the Russians to say now that around the free countries of the world in they are targeting us,” he said. (RFE/RL general, and European ones in particular. Newsline) 22 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 No. 12

aspirations can be blocked on considera- Germany torpedoes... tions other than merit and performance. PREVIEW OF EVENTS (Continued from page 2) And, given Berlin’s current policies even though membership is not on the toward Moscow, Germany’s position on (Continued from page 24) the Winsor Map Room of Pusey Library at upcoming summit’s agenda and will not this issue will be attributed to its relation- 5:30-7 p.m. The Barker Center is located ship with Russia. Building of the Center for Government at 12 Quincy St., Cambridge, MA 02138; be for several years yet to come. MAPs and International Studies (CGIS) is locat- and the Pusey Library is located in are tools to assist countries preparing for The chancellor had visited Russian ed at 1730 Cambridge St., Cambridge, Harvard Yard. For more information con- membership over several years’ cycles. President Vladimir Putin and President- MA 02138. For more information contact tact HURI at 617-495-4053 or log on to Thus, by claiming to oppose Georgian Elect Dmitry Medvedev (still double-hat- HURI at 617-495-4053 or log on to http://www.huri.harvard.edu/calendar.htm. ted as Gazprom chairman) in Moscow on http://www.huri.harvard.edu/calendar.htm. and Ukrainian membership at this time, Sunday, April 13 Berlin will be seen as actually opposing March 8, two days before her Berlin Monday, April 7 the paths toward membership of those speech. Ms. Merkel became the first ALEXANDRIA, Va.: The Washington Western leader to go to Moscow after the CAMBRIDGE, Mass.: The Harvard Group Cultural Fund Sunday Music countries and blocking their further Ukrainian Research Institute is pleased to progress along those paths. Blocking that presidential election. While the Series, under the patronage of the Medvedev meeting focused on “strategic announce a special lecture and exhibit Embassy of Ukraine, resumes its 2008 possibility early on is the declared goal opening, “The Bohdan and Neonila season with “Musical Themes and Dreams of Russia – not Germany. Thus, questions cooperation” on energy, Mr. Putin raised Krawciw Ucrainica Map Collection.” The from Eastern Europe.” Renowned violinist would inevitably arise as to why forcefully with Ms. Merkel the issue of lecture, “Cartography and Ukrainian Solomia Soroka will explore Eastern Germany finds it expedient to support the Georgian and Ukrainian MAPs in Geopolitics: The Krawciw Ucrainica Map European rhythms, traditions and sounds indirectly a goal that cannot be connection with the upcoming NATO Collection and the European Mapping of through works by Hubay, Bartok, Kreisler, summit (Interfax, March 8-9). Ukraine,” will be given by Steven Seegel, Germany’s own. Skoryk and her newest discovery, The other misconception would hold A policy-setting address by Mr. assistant professor, department of history, Hungarian American-born composer Worcester State College, and held in the Georgia liable for the two conflicts on its Steinmeier during that week to the Arthur Hartmann. The concert will be held German Society for Foreign Policy Thompson Room (Room 110) of Barker at The Lyceum, 201 South Washington St., territory, and terms those conflicts “inter- Center at 4-5:30 p.m. The lecture will be at 3 p.m., with a reception immediately nal.” While most Western governments sought to position Germany equidistantly followed by the official opening of the following the performance. There is a sug- are loath to publicly acknowledge the between the United States and Russia on exhibit, “Visualizing Ukraine: A Western gested donation of $20; free for students. actual nature of those conflicts, few global security affairs and as a strategic Cartographic Perspective,” with a cata- Seating is unreserved. For event informa- could doubt analytically that they are partner to Russia in European Union- logue presentation and reception, held in tion call 301-229-2615. inter-state conflicts conducted by Russia Russia relations (Frankfurter Allgemeine on Georgia’s territory, with de facto Zeitung, Die Welt, March 5, 6). ongoing annexations. Reluctance to Germany’s coalition government rests acknowledge Russia’s responsibility for on an increasingly precarious internal that situation has never led Western gov- balance and is headed for elections a year An open invitation to local community activists ernments to hold Georgia liable for the from now with unpredictable prospects ramifications. At this moment, however, amid a fragmenting political landscape. Would you like fellow Ukrainians to know about events in your Berlin seems to exploit a Russia-created In this situation, which puts a premium community? Would you like to become one of The Ukrainian situation as an argument against Georgia, on coalition stability, Chancellor Merkel Weekly’s correspondents? against a NATO MAP program, and for a seems to have renounced her earlier Russia-desired political outcome to intention to reclaim Russia policy-mak- Well, consider this an invitation to become involved. negate a MAP. ing authority at least partly from the Chancellor Merkel’s speech to the top Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Mr. The Ukrainian Weekly welcomes submissions from local commu- brass did not assess Georgia’s and Steinmeier seems fully in charge of that nity activists. You may reach The Weekly by phone, (973) 292- Ukraine’s respective national perform- policy – a second, barely revised edition 9800; fax, (973) 644-9510; e-mail, [email protected]; or mail, ances meeting NATO partnership goals of the Gerhard Schroeder policy – and 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. and on contributing to allied field opera- Chancellor Merkel appears content at tions. Thus, an impression is created that present to follow the minister’s lead in some MAP programs or “membership” that vein. No. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 23 OUT AND ABOUT

March 27 Lecture by Thomas Prymak, “Ilya Repin: A Washington 202-514-1822 or 202-349-2977 Toronto Painter From the Land of Shevchenko,” Shevchenko Scientific Society of Canada, April 5 Pub night, Ukrainian Sports Club Dnipro, Ukrainian Canadian Art Foundation, Baltimore, MD 410-598-4935 416-946-7326 April 6 Concert, Roma Pryma Bohachevsky New March 28 Concert, featuring pianist Valentina Lisitsa, New York York School of Ukrainian Dance, St. George Alexandria, VA The Washington Group Cultural Fund, Ukrainian Catholic Church, 718-435-0190 Northern Virginia Community College, 301-229-2615 April 6 Easter bazaar, Levada Choir, St. Nicholas Toronto Ukrainian Catholic Church, 905-212-9708 March 28 Lecture by Volodymyr Serhijchuk, Washington “Ukraine’s Contributions to World Culture,” April 7 Lecture by Steven Seegel, “Cartography and Embassy of Ukraine, 202-349-2977 or Cambridge, MA Ukrainian Geopolitics: The Krawciw [email protected] Ucrainica Map Collection and the European Mapping of Ukraine,” Harvard University, March 29 Concert, “The Unforgettable Kvitka – KC,” 617-495-4053 New York The Ukrainian Museum, 212-228-0110 April 8 Lecture by Taras Chubai, “Svitlo and March 29 Conference, Federation of Ukrainian Washington Spovid – Light and Confession,” Ronald Philadelphia Student Organizations in America, Reagan Building and International University of , Trade Center, 202-691-4000 [email protected] April 10 Holodomor Conference, “The Ukrainian March 30 Hahilky instruction/performance and Newark, NJ Famine-Genocide: Reflections after 75 Hillside, NJ Easter egg hunt, Immaculate Conception Years,” Rutgers University – Newark, Ukrainian Catholic Church, 908-289-0127 973-353-1260 or 973-353-5345 or or www.byzantines.net/immaculateconception http://cghr.newark.rutgers.edu/

March 30 Taras Shevchenko concert, Ukrainian April 10 Book reading by Askold Melnyczuk, “The Ottawa Canadian Congress, Assumption of the New York House of Widows,” KGB Bar, Blessed Mary Ukrainian Orthodox 212-505-3360 Auditorium, 613-728-0856 Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Items will be pub- March 31 Lecture by Dmitri Belkin, “Legality, lished at the discretion of the editors and as space allows. Please send e- Cambridge, MA Language and Administration: Jewish-Law mail to [email protected]. Courts in Ukraine during the 1920s,” Harvard University, 617-495-4053

March 31 Ukrainian Night, featuring readings by New York Ukrainian authors, Cornelia Street Café, 212-989-9319

April 3 Concert, “Borderland: Ancient Songs From Stanford, CA Ukraine,” featuring Marjana Sadowska, Stanford University, 650-723-9475

April 4 Monthly social, The Washington Group, Washington Leopold’s Café, 240-381-0993

April 4 Film screening, “Shadows of Forgotten New Brunswick, NJ Ancestors” by Sergei Paradjanov, Rutgers University, 732-932-8482

April 4-5 Spring Flea Market and Flower Sale, St. Baltimore, MD Michael Ukrainian Catholic Church, 410-687-3465

April 4-6, 2008 Art show and sale, St. Mary’s Ukrainian , ON Catholic Church Hall, 905-276-4815 or [email protected]

April 5 Volleyball Tournament, Ukrainian American Yonkers, NY Youth Association, Sacred Heart High School, 914-709-0435

April 5 Concert, “The Energy That Remains,” New York featuring the New York Bandura Ensemble, The Ukrainian Museum, 212-228-0110

April 5 Film screening, “The Orange Chronicles” by Asbury Park, NJ Damian Kolodiy and Peter Zielyk, Garden State Film Festival, Berkley Hotel, 877-908-7050

April 5 Holodomor conference, Embassy of Ukraine, 24 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2008 No. 12

PREVIEW OF EVENTS Saturday, March 29 donations are also welcome. All proceeds from the luncheon will go to support the NEW YORK: The Shevchenko Scientific Ukrainian Catholic University. To pur- Society invites all to a program of lectures chase tickets, please send a check to: on the literary works of Yuriy Tarnawsky. Philadelphia Friends of the Ukrainian Tetiana Ostapchuk, a candidate of philo- Catholic University, P. O. Box 19, logical sciences from the Petro Mohyla Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006. For more Mykolayiv State University of information call 773-235-8462. All friends Humanities, and a 2007-2008 Fulbright and supporters of the Ukrainian Catholic Fellow, will speak “On the Contexts and University and the Ukrainian Catholic Pretexts of the Prose of Yuriy Tarnawsky.” Education Foundation, along with all other Prof. Vitaliy Keis of Rutgers University interested persons are invited to this event. will lecture on “Something About the Organizations are also most welcome. ‘Short Tails and Other Pieces’: Yuriy Tarnawsky’s Short Stories in the Monday, March 31 Existential Context.” Mr. Tarnawsky will CAMBRIDGE, Mass.: The Harvard read his own works. The program will take Ukrainian Research Institute will host a place at the society’s building, 63 Fourth lecture given by Dmitrii Belkin, academic Ave. (between Ninth and 10th streets) at 5 researcher, Humboldt University, Berlin, p.m. For additional information call 212- and Max Planck Institute, Frankfurt; and 254-5130. Eugene and Daymel Shklar research fel- Sunday, March 30 low, Ukrainian Research Institute. His lec- ture, “Legality, Language and JENKINTOWN, Pa.: A presentation and Administration: Jewish Law-Courts in luncheon for the Ukrainian Catholic Ukraine during the 1920s,” will be held in University will be held at 4 p.m. at the Room S-050 (Concourse level) of CGIS Ukrainian Educational and Cultural Building South at 4-6 p.m. The South Center, 700 Cedar Road, Jenkintown, PA 19046. Tickets to the event cost $45; (Continued on page 22)

PREVIEW OF EVENTS GUIDELINES: Preview of Events is a listing of Ukrainian community events open to the public. It is a service provided at minimal cost ($20 per submission) by The Ukrainian Weekly to the Ukrainian community.

To have an event listed in Preview of Events please send information, in English, written in Preview format, i.e., in a brief paragraph that includes the date, place, type of event, sponsor, admission, full names of persons and/or organizations involved, and a phone number to be published for readers who may require addi- tional information. Items should be no more than 100 words long.

Information should be sent to: Preview of Events, The Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054; fax, 973-644-9510; e-mail, [email protected].