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INSIDE: • Yushchenko on why Ukraine needs constitutional reform – page 6. • Young missionaries head to orphanages in Ukraine – page 9. • Bandura Camps mark 30th anniversary – page 13.

THEPublished U byKRAINIAN the Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal non-profitW associationEEKLY Vol. LXXVII No.40 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 $1/$2 in Ukraine Yushchenko meets with Ukrainian community Auction of Odesa plant mired on the sidelines of his visit to United Nations in scandal as sale is overturned by Zenon Zawada order to raise desperately needed reve- Kyiv Press Bureau nues for the government, which faces mounting payments and debts. Yet she KYIV – The attempted sale of the invalidated the very auction she fought so Odesa Portside Plant on September 29 hard to execute. concluded in scandal after the State Minutes after the auction, commission- Property Fund’s Auction Commission ers met behind closed doors and after- overturned the results of the auction, wards cancelled the results because the which was won by Ukrainian oligarchs price was too low. Observers speculated Igor Kolomoisky and Oleksander Ms. Tymoshenko ordered the commis- Yaroslavskyi for 5 billion hrv (about $610 sioners to cancel the results during that million U.S.). meeting. She fueled the scandal with her Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko own accusations. ignored a presidential decree and two court decisions to auction the plant in (Continued on page 17)

Lev Khmelkovsky President Viktor Yushchenko speaks at The Ukrainian Museum.

by Roma Hadzewycz Ukraine at a crucial period in its history and noted that the Ukrainian language, history NEW YORK – While visiting New York and restored memory are essential for the to participate in the 64th session of the Ukrainian nation. He also thanked Ukrainian United Nations General Assembly, President Americans for helping Ukraine in its nation- Viktor Yushchenko of Ukraine addressed al development and for their strong support some 200 Ukrainian community representa- of Ukrainian statehood. tives gathered on September 22 at The The president, First Lady Kateryna Ukrainian Museum and presented state Yushchenko and diplomats from Ukraine’s awards to nine distinguished Ukrainian Embassy to the United States, its Mission to activists. the United Nations and its Consulate In his address to the gathering, the presi- General in New York were welcomed to the dent spoke of the challenges facing Ukraine, museum by Prof. Jaroslaw Leshko, presi- especially in view of the approaching presi- dent of the museum’s board of trustees. dential elections, and the need for constitu- Prof. Leshko noted that President and tional reform to set the country on the right Mrs. Yushchenko had first visited The track. (See page 6 for the president’s op-ed Ukrainian Museum in 2005, when they UNIAN Protesters outside the State Property Fund during the auction of the Odesa commentary, “Why does Ukraine need con- viewed the inaugural exhibit at the muse- stitutional reform?”) He commented on the Portside Plant underscore their concerns about environmental issues at the plant. um’s new building that presented the works Their placards read: “Beware: chemical danger.” current problems in the Verkhovna Rada, of renowned sculptor Alexander which is unable to function. The president laid out his vision for (Continued on page 4) Obama nominates Tefft as ambassador to Ukraine KYIV – John Tefft, who served as U.S. ambassador to Georgia at the time of the 2008 war between Russia and Georgia, was nominated by President Barack Obama on September 30 as the new U.S. ambassador to Ukraine. The White House Office of the Press Secretary reported that Ambassador Tefft has been a career Foreign Service officer for 37 years. He most recently served as U.S. envoy to the Republic of Georgia in 2005-2009. Prior to that assignment Mr. Tefft served as deputy assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs and was responsible for U.S. relations

with Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and U.S. State Department Official Website of Ukraine’s President (Continued on page 19) Ambassador John Tefft Dr. Myron B. Kuropas receives the Order for Merit from the president of Ukraine. 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 No. 40 ANALYSIS NEWSBRIEFS

Whom will Washington support Ukraine’s first astronaut dies at 79 ship in 2009. At the same time, 4,671 persons have renounced Ukrainian citi- KYIV – The first astronaut from zenship. (Ukrinform) in the Ukrainian election? Ukraine, Maj. Gen. Pavlo Popovych – who was awarded the title Hero of the Germany provides data on WWII prisoners Ukrainian party and presidential programs by Taras Kuzio Soviet Union, the highest honor of the Eurasia Daily Monitor will show that they include “populist” prom- USSR – has died of a stroke at the age of KYIV – German NGO Saxon ises, including Mr. Yushchenko’s 2004 pro- Memorials to the Victims of Political The Ukrainian media have started to 78, it was reported on September 30. gram. During the past few years he lived in Terror has delivered to the archive of the debate whom the United States might sup- Ms. Getmanchuk pointed to one area Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) elec- port in the January 17, 2010, presidential Hurzuf, Crimea. Popovych spent almost where Washington might consider Ms. 60 years of his life in Moscow, but never tronic databases for 60,000 Ukrainian pris- election. This issue is closely related to the Tymoshenko as positive: her role in reform- oners of war of World War II, the SBU question of which “political technologists” forgot Ukraine. For several years he head- ing and tackling corruption in the energy ed the Slavutych Society of Ukrainian press-service reported on September 30. the presidential candidates will employ: sector. Ms. Tymoshenko closed the corrupt The electronic database contains informa- American or Russian. On August 31 Alyona Culture, and made a great contribution to gas intermediary RosUkrEnergo, which the opening of the Ukrainian Cultural tion from individual records that were kept Getmanchuk, the editor of the weekly maga- resulted in 2009 becoming the first year that in POW camps. These records contain per- zine Glavred, discussed “Washingtonski Center on Staryi Arbat in Moscow. “I am Ukraine’s gas trade is not managed by a cor- proud that I am a Ukrainian. Addressing sonal data of prisoners, in most cases with Stavky” – how the U.S. administration looks rupt intermediary. Ms. Tymoshenko retains photos, as well as information about the upon the three main presidential candidates. an audience, I always say that I am the a larger number of skeptics versus support- first Ukrainian astronaut,” he used to tell camp and transfers to other camps. The Ms. Getmanchuk characterized Viktor ers in Washington, Ms. Getmanchuk information received will be given to citi- Yanukovych, who leads in the polls, as the press. Popovych was born in Uzyn, believes, because of her alleged “authoritari- Bila Tserkva district, Kyiv region, on zens upon their request. Many still do not someone about whom Washington still has an” tendencies, and her unwillingness to know anything about the fate of their rela- reservations, because of his background in October 5, 1930. His first time in orbit compromise. However, Washington’s views was in 1962 – a year after Yuri Gagarin tives, former Soviet prisoners of war that the regime of Leonid Kuchma, his low intel- of Ms. Tymoshenko (like its views about were imprisoned in German camps. The lectual capabilities, and his authoritarian and became the first man to travel into space Mr. Yanukovych), Ms. Getmanchuk sug- – when he was the pilot of the Vostok-4 SBU and Saxon Memorials to the Victims Soviet cultural attributes. Washington also gested, are also in the process of changing. of Political Terror signed a protocol of looks negatively at Mr. Yanukovych’s sup- spaceship; his second flight took place 12 Finally, she assessed Arseniy Yatsenyuk years later, when he headed the crew of cooperation that is in effect for five years. port for separatism in Georgia. (interestingly the analysis ignores President (Ukrinform) Similarly, Ms. Getmanchuk found that Soyuz-14. He was the Soviet Union’s Viktor Yushchenko, who received a raptur- fourth cosmonaut. He completed his ser- “in the U.S. they do not see in a President Ukraine confirms second case of H1N1 ous welcome during his April 2005 visit to vice as the deputy head of the astronaut- Yanukovych any threat to Ukrainian inde- Washington, where he was accorded the rare training center in charge of research work KYIV – The virology and AIDS labo- pendence” because no Ukrainian leader will privilege of speaking to both houses of (1982-1988). Before the collapse of the ratory of the Central Sanitary- willingly give up Ukrainian sovereignty. Congress). Ms. Getmanchuk wrote that few USSR Popovych was a member of the Epidemiological Station of Ukraine’s This is a reference to the fact that Mr. in Washington know much about Mr. USSR Supreme Soviet and the Supreme Health Ministry on September 30 con- Kuchma came to power with “pro-Russian” Yatsenyuk, a factor that is unlikely to change Soviet of the Ukrainian SSR. (Ukrinform, firmed the second case of the H1N1 influ- slogans in 1994, but quickly became a before the election. Washington’s interest in RFE/RL) enza virus. The virus was discovered in a Ukrainian derzhavnyk. Mr. Yatsenyuk is in decline, Ms. person born in 1970 who is temporarily However, what this comparison of Getmanchuk believes, in a comparable way 29,000 obtain citizenship, 4,671 renounce Messrs. Yanukovych and Kuchma ignores is to the plateauing of his support in Ukraine residing in Kyiv. From July 25 to August that Mr. Yanukovych was born in Belarus over the last four months after his meteoric KYIV – President Viktor Yushchenko 3 he was in Indonesia (Bali) on a holiday. and grew up in the highly Sovietized rise in the previous six. has signed a decree on the granting of He returned to Kyiv by plane via from Donetsk, where he was twice imprisoned Mr. Yatsenyuk’s support in Ukraine and Ukrainian citizenship to 289 persons, Istanbul. Indonesia was not on the list of and as the Donetsk governor in 1997-2002 in the West has grown as a consequence of including three teenagers, the Presidential countries with cases of H1N1. In June, oversaw the corrupt transition to a market domestic disillusionment with Mr. Secretariat’s Citizenship Service reported according to information from the economy that created oligarchs. In the Yushchenko, Ms. Tymoshenko and Mr. on September 29. Representatives of 39 Ukrainian Center of Influenza and Acute nationalities obtained citizenship: USSR, Mr. Kuchma was head of Yanukovych. One of his drawbacks, Ms. Respiratory Infections, confirmation Russians (29 percent), Armenians (23 Dnipropetrovsk’s Pivdenmash (Yuzhmash), Getmanchuk believes, is that Mr. Yatsenyuk came from the reference laboratory of the percent), Azerbaijani, Georgians, Koreans the world’s largest producer of nuclear has little charisma, appears arrogant and lit- World Health Organization in London (6 percent each) and Moldovans (4 per- weapons and, therefore, a member of tle is known about him or his policies (for that a 24-year-old a patient from Ukraine cent). As a result of the president’s deci- Ukraine’s Communist nomenklatura example, it is now understood that he is less had tested positive for H1N1. sions, a total of 2,561 aliens have been (Glavred, August 31). pro-Western than at first it was assumed). (Ukrinform). naturalized this year. Overall, based on Ms. Getmanchuk analyzed Yulia Another factor contributing to this declining the decisions of the president, internal Yanukovych, Tymoshenko hold lead Tymoshenko, who will most likely face Mr. interest is the widely held view that Mr. affairs agencies, diplomatic missions and Yanukovych in the second round of the elec- Yatsenyuk will fail to enter the second KYIV – If the presidential elections consular establishments, about 29,000 tion. Ms. Getmanchuk developed the famil- round. persons have obtained Ukrainian citizen- (Continued on page 14) iar canards about Ms. Tymoshenko’s “popu- Ms. Getmanchuk’s analysis is complicat- lism” that dominated Western coverage of ed by the fact that Mr. Yatsenyuk is the only her first government in 2005, but qualified main candidate using Russian “political this by saying that she is no longer seen in technologists.” The Ukrainian team of con- FOUNDED 1933 Washington as a “populist.” Any analysis of sultants, led by Prof. Rostyslav Pawlenko of THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY the National University of Kyiv Mohyla An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., Academy, was replaced by Russian consul- a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. tants in June (www.proua.com, July 3). Yearly subscription rate: $55; for UNA members — $45. Clarification These Russian consultants were involved in preparing the anti-Yushchenko and anti- Periodicals postage paid at Parsippany, NJ 07054 and additional mailing offices. Thank you for publishing the story and (ISSN — 0273-9348) the text of the letter from the Commission American propaganda in the 2004 elections on Human and Civil Rights of the for the Yanukovych campaign. They have The Weekly: UNA: Ukrainian World Congress to Chancellor also been blamed for the hugely unpopular Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 Angela Merkel of Germany regarding Yatsenyuk billboards and campaign tents in John Demjanjuk (September 6). However, the center of most Ukrainian cities that use Postmaster, send address changes to: the headline “Ukrainian World Congress military camouflage colors to portray an air The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz appeals for Demjanjuk” is misleading. of crisis (www.arseniy.org). 2200 Route 10 Editors: Matthew Dubas P.O. Box 280 Zenon Zawada (Kyiv) The letter was not from the Ukrainian Mr. Yanukovych, Ms. Tymoshenko, and Parsippany, NJ 07054 World Congress (in which case it would Mr. Yushchenko use American election con- have been signed by UWC President sultants (information about which is easy to The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com; e-mail: [email protected] Eugene Czolij and/or Secretary General find because U.S. companies working for Stefan Romaniw). The Commission on foreign governments have to register with Human and Civil Rights does not have the Department of Justice’s Foreign Agents The Ukrainian Weekly, October 4, 2009, No. 40, Vol. LXXVII the authority to write on behalf of the Registration Unit) (FARA). Mr. Yanukovych Copyright © 2009 The Ukrainian Weekly Ukrainian World Congress (and does not draws on political consultants linked to the wish to have such authorization). The Republican Party who, unlike others work- ing in Ukraine, have never registered with commission, though created by the ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA Ukrainian World Congress, is an “arm’s FARA. length” institution, which acts indepen- Mr. Yushchenko and Ms. Tymoshenko Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3041 dently. As far as I know the Ukrainian have drawn upon election consultants who e-mail: [email protected] World Congress has made no statements have worked for Democratic election cam- Maria Oscislawski, advertising manager (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 or appeals regarding Mr. Demjanjuk paigns, including those of Bill Clinton and fax: (973) 644-9510 recently. Barack Obama. The Tymoshenko team Mariyka Pendzola, subscriptions e-mail: [email protected] hired AKPD Message and Media, which (973) 292-9800, ext. 3042 – Jurij Darewych, chair of the e-mail: [email protected] Commission on Human and Civil Rights. (Continued on page 20) No. 40 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 3 NEWS ANALYLSIS: Russia’s new Ukrainian disinformation campaign by Roman Kupchinsky ing Ukrainian political parties, one of the Our Ukraine-People’s Self-Defense and belonged to the same Ukrainian Eurasia Daily Monitor which seemed to be aided by the Russian faction of the Ukrainian Parliament, who nationalist organization until moving in media. The campaign is centered on the has more than once denied Yushchenko’s the 1990s to Ukraine, where they eventu- Disinformation, or the planting of false poisoning of Viktor Yushchenko in 2004 poisoning] said, the victim had blood ally obtained Ukrainian citizenship. After information to deceive or smear an during the hotly contested presidential samples taken from him in September- Mr. Yushchenko’s election as president, enemy, is now being regularly used by election in Ukraine, which Mr. October 2004 with help from an Austrian his wife was often accused in the Russian both government and non-governmental Yushchenko eventually won. doctor. However, the samples were not media of being a CIA agent. players in Russia and Ukraine in the Members of the pro-Russian Party of studied in Ukraine or another European According to a report on the BBC on fierce battles for control of power and the Regions, led by Viktor Yanukovych, country. They were secretly taken to the January 28, 2005, “In 2001, the Russian assets in these countries. have long claimed that the poisoning of U.S., where they were enriched with television presenter Mikhail Leontiev, During the January 2009 “gas war” Mr. Yushchenko was concocted and that dioxin and were later taken to the U.K. known for his controversial pro-Kremlin between Ukraine and Russia, the Russian the United States played a key role in this with help from the U.S. special services.” sympathies, accused Kateryna leadership accused Ukraine of preventing “hoax,” meant to win sympathy votes for The scenario provided by Mr. Zhvaniya Yushchenko of being a ‘CIA agent’ sent Russian gas from reaching customers in the pro-Western Mr. Yushchenko and dis- was elaborated upon in the Russian news- to Ukraine to bring her husband to power. the European Union. The charges were credit Russian politicians who openly paper Kommersant Daily on September Kateryna Yushchenko subsequently won shown to be blatantly false, but were supported Mr. Yanukovych in 2004. 24. Kommersant quoted a report in its a libel case in a Ukrainian court against repeated by Russian spokesmen in order This conspiracy-disinformation attempt possession that Ms. Cherednichenko Leontiev and his ‘Odnako’ [However] to discredit Ukraine as a gas transit coun- did not gain a significant following at ordered a forensic test of a conversation program.” try, while building up support within first, and was apparently shelved. But recorded between two persons speaking Austrian doctors responsible for exam- Europe for the North Stream and South with new presidential elections scheduled primarily in English interspersed with ining Mr. Yushchenko several months Stream pipeline projects. to take place in Ukraine in January 2010, occasional Ukrainian. after the poison was reportedly adminis- In what might have been a possible the old charges surrounding the poisoning The conversation was about an unnamed tered said the Ukrainian politician had retaliation for this, Ukraine launched its were resurrected, and new lurid details American intelligence service whose agents ingested a concentrated dose of dioxin. own stealth campaign, claiming that the were added and set in motion. were due to take Mr. Yushchenko’s blood The powerful toxin caused bloating and Russian Consulate in Crimea was hand- On September 18 the Ukrainian news- sample to Austria. Furthermore, the investi- pockmarks on Mr. Yushchenko’s face, ing out Russian passports to Russians liv- paper Segodnya published a sensational gation claimed that one of the voices on the giving his skin a greenish hue and adding ing on the peninsula. Ukraine was never report stating that Larysa Cherednichenko, recording belonged to Kateryna a macabre note to a tumultuous political able to prove these charges, but the idea the former head of the department for Yushchenko, Mr. Yushchenko’s wife, and season culminating in the mass Orange took hold and many Ukrainians seemed supervision over investigations into crim- the other voice to Roman Zvarych, a former Revolution protests in December 2004. convinced that these “passports” were inal cases of the Ukrainian Procurator Ukrainian justice minister and close sup- For unexplained reasons, the current meant to stir up the Crimean population General’s Office, claimed that high-rank- porter of Mr. Yushchenko (Kommersant, disinformation campaign fails to name and were a prelude to the forcible separa- ing officials from the Presidential September 24). who poisoned Mr. Yushchenko and why. tion of Crimea from Ukraine by Russia’s Secretariat and family members of Mr. What the paper failed to mention was armed might. Yushchenko had falsified evidence in his how and where this alleged recording was The article above is reprinted from In September a new and apparently poisoning case (www.kyivpost.com, made and by whom. Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission more elaborate disinformation campaign September 19). Both Mrs. Yushchenko and Mr. from its publisher, the Jamestown began. This time it was between compet- “As [Davyd] Zhvaniya [a member of Zvarych were born in the United States Foundation, www.jamestown.org.

FOR THE RECORD: Yushchenko addresses the U.N. General Assembly Following is an excerpt from the state- concepts and approaches: cooperation, ment delivered on September 23 by openness and friendship among nations President Victor Yushchenko of Ukraine are being explicitly confronted by aggres- at the General Debate of the 64th session sive national egotism, ignoring the inter- of the United Nations General Assembly. ests of close partners, and by dictating the The English-language text was released right of the powerful. by the president’s press office. Unconcealed information wars, energy and economic blackmail, interference …We in Ukraine live in the atmo- with sovereign affaires fall outside the sphere of strengthening freedom. civilized framework. This process is both grand and com- And, most importantly, we strongly plex. Its difficulties discourage idealists, condemn and we shall not accept any vio- nurture authoritarian forces, yet they ren- lations of the fundamental international der another alpine peak for all enlight- principles, in particular territorial integri- ened minds and hands to move upwards. ty and inviolability of frontiers of all sov- The milestone of our nation today is ereign states. the basis for moving forward to live a It is an axiom for us that all the U.N. free and safe life, to revive our own mil- member-states and especially the perma- lennium-old tradition, its interrupted ties nent members of the Security Council and to be again an active part of global must be exemplary in abiding by the prin- civilization and its future. ciples of international law, equality of Our democratic choice is irreversible. nations and neighborliness. Official Website of Ukraine’s President As a free nation, we shall not accept For our Charter remains unshattered, President Viktor Yushchenko addresses the U.N. General Assembly. any forms of interference into internal entrusting the Security Council with the affairs of sovereign states, any pressure primary responsibility for maintaining At the same time, Ukraine persistently eye on it. on them or manifestations of authoritarian international peace and security. counts on the support by the Security Ukraine was among the co-sponsors of thinking in international relations. Ukraine acts in strict compliance with Council permanent members of our pro- the IMO Resolution “Piracy and armed We remember the price paid by our the goals and principles of the United posal to enhance security assurances for robbery against ships in waters off the fathers for our freedom, for the freedom Nations and expects the same from its non-nuclear states, in particular for those coast of Somalia,” which laid the ground of Europe and the world, for the future partners and neighbors. which had voluntarily renounced nuclear for further respective U.N. Security independence of Ukraine. Today, I have the honor to confirm weapons or their development. … Council resolutions. … We shall soon commemorate the 65th Ukraine’s resolve to become a U.N. I wish to dwell on the issue of the We are convinced that the General anniversary of the victory over fascism. Security Council member in 2016-2017. utmost importance for Ukraine. It is the Assembly has to become a coordinating This joint victory of [the] anti-Hitler Our country has been and will always global fight against the maritime piracy. body for the efforts of all specialized coalition is sacred. remain a reliable partner of the U.N. in all We value all efforts of the United institutions in this field. … The mission of all countries which matters of peace and security and in col- Nations and the International Maritime On behalf of Ukraine I propose to remember the horrors of fascism is to lective actions fostering stability in every Organization in this regard. examine carefully an idea of establishing avert a single hint at restoration of totali- region, especially in Africa. … Still, the measures so far have not been in one of the African countries a regional tarian ideology and its derivative: the pol- Almost 15 years ago Ukraine volun- sufficient. center under the U.N. aegis which would icy of imperial ambitions, neglecting the tarily gave up the third largest nuclear Almost 70 000 Ukrainian citizens are bring under its umbrella specialized agen- value of human life and violating the potential and acceded to the Nuclear Non- employed on ships under foreign flags. cies programs and funds as well as politi- right of peoples to sovereign national Proliferation Treaty as a non-nuclear Any developments on the high seas affect cal offices to counter piracy. … existence. state. us directly. I am convinced that one of the most I am raising this issue, because we are We welcome the steps taken by the In the last seven years only, pirates acute problems for all of us is the global witnessing very disconcerting re-emerged United States and the Russian Federation attacked 18 vessels with Ukrainian sailors financial crisis. Ukraine welcomes deci- signals from the past: ranging from ques- to elaborate a new agreement to replace on board. In the last nine months only, 35 sions of multilateral fora, in particularly tioning the very existence of newly inde- the Treaty between the USSR and the Ukrainian sailors were taken hostages. those of the Group of 20 as the leading pendent states to denying the nations’ USA on the Reduction and Limitation of It is not a local problem anymore. It instrument to counter the crisis. own views on their past and future. Strategic Offensive Arms of 31 July 1991, has become very dangerous and threaten- We are concerned about substitution of which expires this year. ing [to] all of us. We shall not turn a blind (Continued on page 22) 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 No. 40 Yushchenko meets... (Continued from page 1) Archipenko. “Your presence in our museum assured our Ukrainian community that its generosity in building the new museum has resonance amid the highest levels in Ukraine and it facilitated closer contacts and cooperation with cultural institutions in Ukraine,” Prof. Leshko said of the visit four years ago. He added that, in its new home, The Ukrainian Museum is continuing its 33 years of work in “presenting to the world the rich historical and cultural heritage of Ukraine,” and noted that the museum is now preparing for the exhibit “Ukraine-Sweden: At the Crossroads of History,” which President Yushchenko and the king of Sweden had opened in Kyiv earlier this year. Members of the Ukrainian delegation attending President Yushchenko’s meeting with the community at The Ukrainian Museum were: Ambassador to the United Nations Yurii Roma Hadzewycz Sergeyev, Ambassador to the U.S. Oleh Shamshur, Consul Recipients of the Order of Princess Olha (from left) Roma Hadzewycz General Serhii Pohoreltsev (New York), Ambassador Valeriy Ulana Mazurkevich, Nadia Matkiwsky and Halyna Sculptor Igor Grechanyk explains his work to Kuchynsky, First Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Woskobijnyk. President Viktor Yushchenko. Volodymyr Khandogiy, Deputy Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council Kostyantyn Gryshchenko, Presidential Secretariat Chair Vira Ulianchenko and others. At the conclusion of the meeting, President Yushchenko presented state awards to Ukrainian activists involved in various fields of endeavor as Ms. Ulianchenko read the offi- cial decree. Andrew Fedynsky, director of the Ukrainian Museum- Archives of Cleveland, and Dr. Myron B. Kuropas, commu- nity activist from Chicago, were awarded the Order for Merit, III class. (Both men, it should be noted, are colum- nists for The Ukrainian Weekly.) Halyna Woskobijnyk, president of the Ivan Bahriany Foundation; Natalia Danylenko, honorary member of the World Federation of Ukrainian Women’s Organizations; Roxolana Horobowyj, vice-president of the World Federation of Ukrainian Medical Associations; Nadia Matkiwsky, co-founder of the Children of Chornobyl Relief and Development Fund; Sonya Soutus, community activist; and Ulana Mazurkevich, president of the Ukrainian Human Oksana Trytjak Rights Committee; were honored with the Order of Princess Honoree Myron B. Kuropas, a longtime officer of the Olha, III class. Ukrainian National Association and an honorary mem- Official Website of Ukraine’s President The Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise, IV class, was ber of its General Assembly, is congratulated by UNA Halyna Woskobijnyk receives the Order of Princess bestowed on Eugene Stakhiv, community activist. Treasurer Roma Lisovich (right) and his wife, Lesia. Olha. While at The Ukrainian Museum, President Yushchenko was given a private tour of an exhibit of sculptures by Igor Grechanyk from Kyiv. The exhibit was dedicated to the 18th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence and arrived in New York from Washington, where it was on display at the Embassy of Ukraine. Also on display in the second-floor gallery toured by the Ukrainian president were the works of the late Mychajlo Moroz. Mr. Grechanyk gave Mr. Yushchenko a tour of his works, and Prof. Leshko spoke briefly about the Moroz paintings. Maria Shust, director of The Ukrainian Museum, told The Weekly that Mr. Yushchenko knows Mr. Grechanyk and that the artist had been commissioned to do two monu- mental sculptures of Taras Shevchenko – one in Baku, Azerbaijan, and the other in Sofia, Bulgaria. * * * According to the Official Website of the President of Ukraine, during his September 21-23 visit to New York and the United Nations (excerpts of his speech to the General Assembly appear on page 3), Viktor Yushchenko held meet- ings with the leaders of Lithuania, Finland, Sweden, Bosnia Official Website of Ukraine’s President Lev Khmelkovsky and Herzegovina, Brazil and other countries, as well as with Dr. Roxolana Horbowyj is congratulated by Sonya Soutus receives her state award. the President of the 64th session of the U.S. General Ukraine’s president. Assembly, Ali Abdussalam Treki. In addition, the president

(Continued on page 17)

Oksana Trytjak Lev Khmelkovsky Official Website of Ukraine’s President Honoree Natalia Danylenko is flanked by the President Viktor Yushchenko presents the Order of Andrew Fedynsky is recognized by the president. Yushchenkos. Prince Yaroslav the Wise to Eugene Stakhiv. No. 40 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 5

THE UKRAINIAN NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FORUM UNA Seniors hold annual conference at Soyuzivka by Oksana Trytjak KERHONKSON, N.Y. – The explo- sive growth of the senior population is affecting the whole world: more people are living longer, in better health and with more resources than ever before. This is also true of the Ukrainian popula- tion. With this reality in mind, the UNA Seniors held yet another annual UNA Seniors’ Conference at Soyuzivka from Sunday, June 14, through Friday, June 19. Soyuzivka has been the recreational and cultural center of the Ukrainian com- munity for many years. Recently it has experienced a revival, with increasingly more activities and events marked on its social calendar. The summertime is a par- ticularly exciting time when both the young and the old enjoy visiting Soyuzivka’s relaxing atmosphere and Oksana Trytjak reconnecting with friends from both far Participants of the 2009 UNA Seniors Week at Soyuzivka. and near. There are children’s camps, family reunions, weddings, film festivals In between, the evenings were filled and, of course, the popular Ukrainian with song, dance and reminiscences. Cultural Festival, which this year was Rostyslav Wasylenko was always ready to headlined by Ukrainian pop star Ruslana lead conference participants in song with and attracted over 6,000 guests. the aid of his mandolin. Alexander Redko Seniors are a big part of Soyuzivka’s entertained one evening with his recita- revival. Since 1975 the UNA Seniors tions and humor. With wit, patience and Club has held annual conferences at determination George Soltys, along with Soyuzivka. This year 104 seniors attend- Halia Redko, Wolodymyra Bilaniuk, ed the conference, and eight guest speak- Gloria Horbaty and Marijka Soltys, took ers participated. charge of Auction Night and made sure On the first day of the conference, that every item was auctioned off to a Myrosia Hrab, the seniors’ special exer- happy buying audience. Tamara Huryn led cise guru, led everyone in an exercise and a brief stretch and exercise program that dance regime. In the days that followed, kept all of the attendees fit and nimble. Prof. Alexander Motyl read from his book The Soltyses were instrumental also in “Whiskey Priest” with great passion; the successful Bingo afternoon, which financial adviser Zorianna Stawnychy helped fill the UNA Seniors’ coffers. Yet spoke at length about the vulnerability of another moneymaker (other than the con- the aged and how to prepare for various ference registration fee of $10 per person) financial issues related to aging that may was the raffle of a beautiful Trypillian occur; Soyuzivka Manager Nestor vase that was brought from Toronto by Paslawsky welcomed all the seniors and Ivan Skrypukh. This vase came from a A view of the daily sessions held in the Veselka Hall at Soyuzivka during UNA eagerly answered questions and concerns collection of Trypillian works collected Seniors Week. about the heritage center; Ihor Hayda by his late wife, Lydia Skrypukh. spoke about the importance of nutrition, Alexandra Stasiuk and Gloria Horbaty seniors on behalf of all the UNA execu- Olha Trytyak, secretary; Ihor Hayda, vice especially for the aging population; attor- sold tickets for the raffle. tives at the beginning of the banquet. president; and Oksana Trytjak, president. ney Myron Smorodsky explained the dif- As always, Thursday evening was Mr. Wasylenko presented a brief read- Ija Wasylenko, the outgoing treasurer, did ficulties that can occur with bequests and reserved for a group photo, cocktails and ing from “Memoirs of a Spy during World not seek re-election and she was thanked wills, especially as they pertain to a super banquet prepared by Soyuzivka’s War I” published by Olha Trytyak and her for her services to the organization. Ukraine; Dr. Bohdar Woroch spoke about talented chef, Andrij Sonevytsky. Most written by her father, Ivan Wyslotsky. The The program for next year’s UNA health and medications, and answered guests attended in their best embroidered evening continued with singing and danc- Seniors’ Conference is already in the many questions from the audience; and garb, and all enjoyed a fashion walk ing to the sounds of “Hurt Udech.” works (all over age 55 are welcome). The Prof. Jaroslaw Leshko spoke about The around the banquet hall. During the business portion of the ses- all-inclusive fun week – promising a good Ukrainian Museum in New York and the Ukrainian National Association execu- sion, the following were elected as UNA time at a very reasonable price – is sched- value of expanding its membership base. tives were present, including President Seniors officers: Maria Tomorug, treasurer; uled for June 13-18, 2010. Stefan Kaczaraj, National Secretary Oksana Trytjak is UNA national orga- Christine Kozak and Treasurer Roma nizer and president of the UNA Seniors. Lisovich. Mr. Kaczaraj greeted the

Conference participants listen to Alexander Motyl’s presentation on his book “Whiskey Priest.” In the Veselka hall, Myrosia Hrab leads the seniors in an exercise program.

THE UNA: 115 YEARS OF SERVICE TO OUR COMMUNITY 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 No. 40

COMMENTARY THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY Nihilism in Ukraine Why does Ukraine need constitutional reform? by Viktor Yushchenko society’s political and legal need for chang- The Odesa Portside Plant affair offers a glimpse into the nihilism of Ukrainian poli- ing the existing system of power. tics and business that the post-Orange Revolution era will be remembered for. Ukraine is currently in an extremely diffi- Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko fought tooth-and-nail to ensure that the auction cult political and economic situation, which Main principles of a new take place, only to invalidate it afterwards. At the same time, billionaire oligarch Igor poses a threat to its stability and is fraught Constitution of Ukraine Kolomoisky filed one of the lawsuits that forbid the auction, yet he vowed to defend with the loss of sovereignty. The economic his winning bid in the courts. As president of Ukraine, I will work to difficulties, instability and other crisis phe- meet the public demand for a revamp of the The disgraceful conflict between President Viktor Yushchenko and Prime Minister nomena primarily result from our political Tymoshenko, which, we hope, will end with the presidential election, continues to system of power via direct dialogue with the elite’s inability to run this country, to citizens, who are the only source of state wreak havoc upon Ukraine. With Odesa Portside, they’ve done a remarkable job in respond to external challenges in a swift and restoring Ukraine’s image as an investment nightmare. power. I have recently signed a decree on a adequate manner, to reach a consensus on nationwide discussion of the text of the new Consider the legal nihilism – the auction was held despite a presidential decree and the fundamental principles of the state’s two court decisions forbidding it. As a result, of 13 potential competitors, only three Constitution that was submitted to development and to bear responsibility for Parliament early this year. opted to bid. After all, few legitimate businessmen will invest in a country in which the results of their activities. Such stability the president insists an auction is illegal and will be voided, while the prime minister The numerous unsuccessful attempts to and responsibility should be based on adher- achieve unity among parliamentary factions tells everyone to ignore him. ence to democratic principles and proce- And, while these two continue to claw at each other, Ukraine’s industrial resources, and bodies of power only highlighted the dures in everyday political life. need for such public examination to be built by generations of Ukrainians, continue being sold down the river to post-Soviet oligarchs. Consider the three bidders – a firm affiliated with Gazprom, Vladimir launched. This is precisely why I proposed Putin’s chokehold on Ukraine; Russian oligarch Konstantin Grigorishin; and Economic consequences that not only lawmakers but also all Ukrainian oligarchs Mr. Kolomoisky and Oleksander Yaroslavskyi. of the political crisis Ukrainian people be involved in a joint dis- The Odesa Portside Plant mustn’t fall into Russian hands, Mr. Kolomoisky claimed cussion on the subject. I also invite other A thorough analysis of the current situa- afterwards in trying to muster public support for his winning $610 million bid – a experts and interested European organiza- tion has produced a disappointing conclu- sweet deal considering the factory was valued at between $1 billion and $2 billion a tions to comment on the draft new sion: in order to find a way out of the crisis year ago. That’s hollow patriotism coming from the Dnipropetrovsk native who lives Constitution, which has recently received a and to avert similar crises in the future, in Switzerland, is raising his children there and has never been heard to speak positive assessment from the Venice Ukraine should first solve its internal politi- Ukrainian. Commission of the Council of Europe. The cal problems, which are the root of evil and “Kolomoisky wants to buy this factory at ‘beztsin’ [an absurdly low price] in order draft is based on international and national the cause of the present woes. to sell it later,” said Petro Burkovskyi, an economist at the National University of Kyiv constitutional experience and is guided by For example, at the beginning of this Mohyla Academy. “It’s a business he always did, with oblast energy companies and universally recognized European standards year, under pressure from neighboring coun- his manganese assets and ferroalloy assets. These people bought state assets at and the requirements of international agree- ‘beztsin’ from the people, returning nothing to them.” tries, the Ukrainian government showed a ments in the field of human rights. Ukraine’s state-owned assets should be sold not only to raise revenue, but to allow selective approach to the defense of The key provisions of the revised the private sector to do what the government can’t do – improve the efficiency and Ukrainian interests during the signing of the Constitution are about creating an effective profitability of an enterprise. Instead, Ms. Tymoshenko initiated the Odesa Portside gas accords, which jeopardize our energy system of checks and balances in the state auction because her government is surviving hand to mouth, bereft of revenues. security. In this context, proper management mechanism, widening the political rights of Rather than taking cost-cutting measures to reduce spending, Ms. Tymoshenko has of our strategic assets in this area is increas- Ukrainian citizens and boosting their ability spent the last several weeks unveiling new spending initiatives. Mail carriers and ingly becoming a matter of utmost impor- to directly influence state decision-making. librarians will get raises; $9 million was earmarked for the Kharkiv metro; another tance for the whole European community. In particular, one novelty in Ukrainian con- $1.2 billion was found for the Euro 2012 (or printed by the National Bank, her critics Such vital issues as the need to improve stitutionalism is the introduction of the right allege). relations with the European Union and other of the people’s legislative initiative. This Accusations of populism are legitimate. Not offering any long-term strategic vision foreign partners of Ukraine also require right is provided for by the Constitutions of or priorities for Ukraine, Ms. Tymoshenko has staked her political success on handing solutions. a whole number of European states, such as out goodies. The Odesa Portside auction confirmed one of the biggest criticisms of The worsening of the domestic political Austria, Switzerland, Spain, Italy, Poland, Ms. Tymoshenko: her handling of politics as short-term deal-making regardless of situation amid a global economic and finan- Latvia, Lithuania, etc., and it is in place in long-term consequences. cial crisis has caused GDP to shrink by 22 22 states of the U.S.A., 20 constituent parts The president, too, deserves criticism. He blocked the Odesa Portside auction last percent, also bringing about rising inflation, of the Russian Federation and a range of year when it could have earned at least $1 billion, if not twice that. He claims he’s an unstable rate of the national currency and states in the Federal Republic of Germany. motivated by Ukraine’s long-term interests, but the fact that he’s competing against higher debt to foreign creditors. Under the new fundamental law, the Ms. Tymoshenko in the presidential election can’t be ignored. His statements insisting Even though Ukraine has managed to political regime must hinge on free political the factory won’t be sold frightened off one of the best potential investors, Norway’s avoid economic collapse thanks to interna- competition and respect for democratic val- Yara International. tional assistance, we are still hanging in ues. Conspiracy theories are supposed to be the domain of society’s skeptics, rebels and limbo. A provision of principle is the stipulation malcontents. In Ukraine, they’re spun by the nation’s leaders. The three bidders con- Public demand for a revamped of the Ukrainian state’s international posi- spired together, Ms. Tymoshenko claimed. Tymoshenko wanted to sell the plant to the mechanism of power tion as an inalienable part of the European Russians, said Mr. Kolomoisky. Tymoshenko and Kolomoisky are in it together, community. claimed another rival for the presidency, Arseniy Yatsenyuk. Constitutional reform is the key and only The new Constitution should become a At the heart of the matter are morals and ethics, Mr. Burkovskyi properly noted. way of forming responsible and effective foundation for a free, just and affluent “Political and economic decline comes with the degradation of morals,” he said. authorities. Society has long developed an Ukrainian society and should be based on “Changing owners and politicians won’t change anything as there isn’t a foundation to acute need for reform of the fundamental such principles and premises as: hold everything together.” law (Constitution), which would eliminate • democratic distribution of powers, Let’s hope Ukraine’s leaders find something to hold the nation together before it’s the inconsistencies brought into the constitu- duties and responsibilities among all branch- torn apart. tional realm by the ill-conceived and hasty es of power; changes made to the Constitution before the • direct election of leaders, who are presidential election in 2004. accountable to citizens; As a result, we had the scene set for harsh • ensuring that parties are accountable to Oct. social and political conflicts and instability voters by introducing open election lists; Turning the pages back... in institutions of power. The present • re-orientating law-enforcement bodies Constitution as a product of political com- towards protecting human rights and state promise has resulted in a widening gap laws by ridding pre-trial investigation of its 10 between the authorities and the people and incriminatory bias. Three years ago, on October 10, 2006, more than 100 has begun to serve the interests of the elites Under the new Constitution, everyone 2006 mourners protested in front of the Russian Embassy in Kyiv to instead of meeting public needs and aspira- will be entitled to protect their interests and honor the memory of Anna Politkovskaya, an investigative tions. We need a viable Constitution of free- contest anti-constitutional laws in the journalist of Ukrainian descent who was murdered in Moscow doms, which would effectively safeguard Constitutional Court. on October 6, 2006. human and civil rights and liberties. Politkovskaya, who worked for Novaya Gazeta in Russia, was murdered in the ele- In this context, I see my task as head of The new Constitution is a safeguard of vator of her own residence and the gunman left the murder weapon at the crime scene state in making irreversible at the constitu- Ukrainian statehood’s development – a clue that the murder was an assassination. tional level the democratic changes that Society’s current need for a revamped She was known for her book “Druha Cechenska” (Second Chechen War), which have drastically transformed Ukraine after mechanism of power creates high expecta- describes the horrors of the war, exposing its absurdity, brutality and inhuman cruelty. the Orange Revolution of 2004. I am con- tions for an active, broad and public discus- During the protest, organized by Ukrainian journalists and the international infor- vinced that a revised Constitution must sion on the main provisions of the draft mation agency Yevropeyska Khvylia (European Wave), protesters placed flowers and become the fundamental law of a free, just amendments to the Constitution and for lit candles at the Embassy’s tall metal fence, holding Ms. Politkovskaya’s photo and a and protected society, which is governed by copy of her book. constructive proposals, which will be col- law and democracy. lected and considered. The reworked and A placard was unveiled by the Citizens Opposition of Ukraine that read, “Putin – My stance is consistent and unchanged: Murderer.” Activists read aloud Politkovskaya’s works, including “Why I don’t like finalized text will take account of the pro- the amendments to the Constitution should posals made during the nationwide public not be tailor-made for specific personalities (Continued on page 11) or political forces. They should be based on (Continued on page 22) No. 40 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The things we do ... revealed not only through his deeds, but by Orysia Paszczak Tracz Wrong message also in many documents, among them those published in the book “The to Russia’s neighbors Unknown Lenin” (Richard Pipes, Yale University Press, 1999). Dear Editor: You characterize Mykola Can someone explain to me why Kokhanivskyi’s deed as a “political prov- A chance encounter in Kyiv President Barack Obama would abandon ocation” and “vandalism.” At worst, it was an act of civil disobedience, little dif- Summer is over, and we’re all back to Tracz!” He grabbed me in a bear hug and Poland, Ukraine, the Czech Republic and the grind. Many of you have visited gave me a kiss. I had never seen him other countries on the 70th anniversary of ferent from what was done with Lenin’s Ukraine during the last few months. before. He was a Ukrainian with a smile the Soviet invasion of Poland? statue in Lviv and many other places in Regrettably, I did not go this year, but that could light up the known and Are President Obama and his adminis- Ukraine nearly 20 years ago. It is the con- hope to lead my tour again next August. unknown universe. This was Roman tration that ignorant of history, or is this a tinuing existence of statues of leaders of Most probably, those of you who went Karpishka of Montreal. much more sinister message? Is that mes- the criminal Communist regime in many had a grand old time. Of course, it Out of his blazer pocket he took out sage that we will no longer defend the locations in Ukraine that is a provocation. depends with what attitude you travel – the clipping of The Weekly article I had former Soviet states and surrounding sov- I applaud all those Ukrainians who are will your beer “stakan” or wine glass be written the year before on wandering the ereign countries that have been dependent not willing to put up with this insult to half full or half empty? You will see what streets of Lviv, with suggestions on upon the United States to stand up to the nation’s dignity any longer. you want to see. where to eat and places to go. He told me Russia’s aggressive tendencies? Jurij Darewych he and his wife were leaving for Lviv the When Iran has long-range missile Now to backtrack a bit. The Ukrainian Mississauga, Ontario next day and would be following my sug- capability and nuclear warheads to ride, Weekly has power – people do read it, gestions for that city. Israel and our Eastern European friends clip the articles and take them along We spent a lovely few hours over cof- had better beware. It makes me sick to when they travel. I experienced this in fee, discussing Ukraine, Canada, see Mr. Obama breaking promises to Kyiv a few years ago, while visiting the Montreal and Winnipeg, then went our those who have sacrificed so much for Ivan Honchar Museum for the first time. Ukrainian programs separate ways. It was truly a memorable freedom. The previous time I had been there, and serendipitous meeting. I later remem- What is interesting is that two days the building had been a shell, totally gut- on our radios bered that I knew this lawyer from after Mr. Obama made his announcement, ted, and workmen were plastered, really Weekly articles on his work in teaching Russia’s top general said that plans to Dear Editor: plastered, as they feverishly worked to English in Ukraine, volunteering and deploy missiles in Kaliningrad, an get the structure ready for its first exhibi- translating Ivan Franko’s “Lys Mykyta” enclave next to Poland had not been Upon moving to the southernmost part tion in the newly granted facility. Petro into “Fox Mykyta.” shelved, despite a decision by the United of New Jersey, over an hour from the Honchar, the director of the museum, So, to provide others with clippings to States to rethink plans for missile defense closest Ukrainian community I was very was one of many splattered with plaster keep in their pockets for their trips to in Europe. happy to hear that the Philadelphia as he labored away. Ukraine (and maybe we’ll run into each I’m sure the next few months will Ukrainian community has several So, to see the museum so elegantly other in Kolomyia or Kosiv? Hugs and reveal some backdoor deal struck with Ukrainian radio programs that can be done with its permanent and special exhi- kisses welcome...), I am compiling sug- Russia. “streamed” on my computer. bitions was a real treat. The new exhibi- gestions for a future column. I am also At the end of the day all we did was I’m sure that other Ukrainian commu- tion was exquisite linen and hempen asking for your contributions based on empower the Russians, make Iran happy nities have radio programs that in this fashion inspired by medieval Kyivan-era your travels and favorite places in and make the people in Central and digital age can also be “streamed” on the clothing and treasures, by designer Ukraine. Eastern Europe wonder who we are as computer. It would be great if any of the Valentyna Sazonova. A guide approached Some places have closed, new ones Americans. Ukrainian communities around the U.S. me and proceeded to show me through and Canada would send their information the exhibition. He introduced me to the have reopened. We could have a really Walt Zalisko to our hub of happenings in the Ukrainian petite, elegant designer. Since I had told useful and interesting collection of where Port Orange, Fla. community – The Ukrainian Weekly and the young man that I was from Canada, to go for shopping, dining, viewing and Svoboda – so all of us Ukrainians scat- when we entered the second hall of the whatever else is out there. Please indicate tered across the States and Canada can exhibition, he pointed to a man sitting on if you want to be mentioned along with keep up with happenings in the larger a bench, then to me and said, “Kanada – your suggestion. At worst, an act enclaves of Ukrainian communities where Kanada.” many of our friends and families live. As this man looked at me, he leapt up Orysia Tracz may be contacted at ory- The Philadelphia area has four radio and ran over, exclaiming, “Orysia, Orysia [email protected]. of civil disobedience shows that can be listened to “live” or Dear Editor: “streamed” on the computer at your con- venience anytime during the week. They I was both surprised and disappointed play live on Saturdays at 9-10 a.m. “The by the editorial “Lenin fades democrati- Ukrainian Cultural Center Program”; at COMMENTARY: The people cally” published in The Ukrainian Weekly noon-1 p.m. – “Ukrainian American (August 30). Youth Association Program”; at 1-1:30 act to remove Lenin from Kyiv Would you have published such an p.m. – “The Ukrainian Baptist Program”; editorial if the statue was of Hitler or of and on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. – “The by Yevhen Sverstiuk Ukraine, an executioner of peasants and Stalin? After all, Lenin was the one who Ukrainian Catholic Hour.” the clergy. established the infamous political police Nowhere in the world was so much Monuments to murderers are pathogen- My mother, who was very sick and bed attention paid to symbols as in the “first CheKa (later renamed OGPU, NKVD, ridden the last few years, enjoyed listen- ic. They create social schizophrenia. Young socialist state.” Red flags, portraits of lead- MVD and KGB), he was the initiator of ing all day Saturday to all the Ukrainian people despise state authorities which, ers, slogans, stars – all this amazed for- the use of terror against those he consid- and other community shows (there also contrary to presidential decrees, tolerate eigners and supposedly convinced every- ered to be a threat to the dictatorship of are several Polish and Russian shows) monuments to tyrants. one of “the unity of the party and the peo- the Communist Party, he was the founder and felt closer and informed. We would The first president of Ukraine, Leonid ple.” However, the Ukrainian diaspora of the Communist system of concentra- have loved to have more radio shows Kravchuk, had issued a decree calling for knew better. And it knew that Communist tion camps (later known as the GULAG), about community happenings, cultural the replacement of Communist symbols. and the person who sent Communist and religious topics, and news from symbols were despised by the majority of During Leonid Kuchma’s presidency armed forces to invade Ukraine, over- Ukraine, to listen to. people. there also was a decree calling for the threw the Ukrainian National Republic Of course, these symbols were legally removal of Communist symbols. And and subjugated Ukraine to Communist Stepha Hryckowian protected and had to be respected. But now we have a decree by President Viktor Russian rule. Lenin’s brutality has been Woolwich Township, N.J. when Ukrainians abroad would hear that Yushchenko. somewhere some young person had raised Almost everywhere in Ukraine a blue-and-yellow flag during the night Communist idols were pulled down due to they were all excited and happy, even the initiative of concerned individuals. MAY WE HELP YOU? though they knew that these acts were Everywhere, there were defenders of these against the law. The illegal smuggling idols. Inspiration to protect these idols abroad of political poetry was condemned comes from neighboring Moscow, where To reach The Ukrainian Weekly call (973) 292-9800, by the KGB, but not by the people. The even the communist names of newspapers and dial the appropriate extension (as listed below). world came to accept that, on the ideologi- and magazines have been retained. And cal canvas, legality was a rather blurred little wonder – over in Moscow they crave concept. the return of the Empire. The “evil empire” has fallen, but its Individual attempts to remove monu- Editorial – 3049, 3088 • Production – 3063, 3069 symbols are still everywhere, like scabs ments to Communist leaders were frequent- on flesh. It was one thing when Lenin’s ly successful. But an attempt to pull down Administration – 3041 • Advertising – 3040 statue stood because people believed in the Lenin monument on Shevchenko his righteousness, but quite another when Boulevard in Kyiv was stopped by the Subscriptions – 3042 everyone became aware of what he really was: a murderer, a brutal enemy of (Continued on page 16) 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 No. 40 IN THE PRESS: Obama’s decision on missile defense “Why Europe Needs Star Wars,” by lomats will still be working to undo a sense, provided that the US manages the is interpreted broadly as a diminution of A. Wess Mitchell and Jamie M. Fly, decade from now. … change wisely. Above all, Mr. Obama the strategic relationship. …” Foreign Policy, September 9 (http:// must find other ways of underlining the www.foreignpolicy.com/arti- “Missile Sense,” editorial, The New US commitment to Poland and the Czech “Placating Russia Won’t Work,” by cles/2009/09/09/why_europe_needs_ York Times, September 17: Republic. This should include stepped up David J. Kramer, The Washington star_wars?page=0,1): “President Obama made a sound stra- contingency planning for any future fight Post, September 18: “…what are a few hurt feelings among tegic decision, scrapping former President with Russia. The administration has “… the administration’s capitulation to two small allies compared with improved George W. Bush’s technologically dubi- called for such planning, over objections Russian pressure is a serious betrayal of relations with Moscow? Isn’t the prospect ous plan to build a long-range missile from some NATO partners. Other mea- loyal allies in Warsaw and Prague whose of a ‘reset’ relationship with Russia worth defense system in Poland and the Czech sures might include military exercises and governments pursued politically unpopu- the cost of U.S. disengagement from Republic. … base reinforcements. US feet on the lar positions at the request of the Bush Central Europe in general and backpedal- “Still, managing the diplomacy — par- ground in central Europe would go far to administration to help confront a rising ing on missile defense in particular? ticularly the disappointment of the Central reassure Poles and Czechs that Mr Obama threat from Iran. (Announcing this policy “Actually, no. … Europeans — and the politics in this is not inching away from them. change on Thursday, the 70th anniversary “Moscow is unlikely to interpret a country will require a very deft hand. “Russia needs to get that message too. of the Soviet invasion of Poland, added repositioning of missile defense the way “Neither Poland nor the Czech Republic Responding to the US move, it signaled unnecessary insult to injury.) … [President Barack] Obama hopes – as a was ever worried about Iran or particularly that no concessions on its part were called “Whatever the official explanation now trust-building measure to incentivize committed to the need for missile defense. for. The Obama administration had mere- for not moving forward, many – includ- Russian cooperation on other fronts. What they fear is Russia. And what they ly come to its senses, with Russia’s mus- ing the Kremlin – will read this shift as Instead, Russian leaders will learn a sim- wanted was the security of a closer rela- cular assertion of its interests helping to an effort to placate Moscow. Announcing ple lesson: that when America and its tionship with Washington — and the clarify matters. The U.S. must now check the decision ahead of Obama’s meetings allies are threatened, Washington backs American military personnel — that came the idea that Russia will always get its with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev down. Already, Russia has watched as the along with the interceptors and radar. way if it is a big enough bully.” next week reinforces such thinking. Obama administration has softened U.S. “President Obama called the leaders of “…Obama’s efforts to placate the support for Georgia and backed off the both countries before the announcement. “Of Polish Angst and NATO,” op-ed Russians come at the expense of U.S. push for Ukrainian membership in NATO. Speaking at the White House on commentary by Roger Cohen, The New relations with Eastern and Central A third retreat in less than a year would Thursday, he reaffirmed this country’s York Times, September 20: European governments that are already likely trigger the typical Russian response commitment to the common defense of “‘How could Obama choose such a uneasy about the U.S. commitment to to retreat: additional aggression. all NATO members. It will take a lot day?’ their region. Worse, rewarding bad “…relocating missile defense away more reassurance in the weeks and “That was the anguished outburst of a Russian behavior is likely only to pro- from Central Europe would not serve months ahead to calm their anxieties. … senior Polish officer attending a meeting duce more Russian demands on this and U.S. interests. …Nothing would do more Mr. Obama will meet in New York of NATO chiefs of defense here when other issues. …” to erode America’s international credibili- next week with President Dmitri asked what he thought of the U.S. presi- ty than the appearance of the U.S. presi- Medvedev of Russia. He must make clear dent’s cancellation last week of plans to “Shattered Confidence In Europe,” dent alongside Russian President Dmitry that this decision is not a payoff for place missile interceptors in Poland and a by Ronald D. Asmus, The Washington Medvedev at the U.N. meeting later this Moscow’s bullying — and that an radar station in the Czech Republic. Post, September 19: month in New York announcing a gentle- improved relationship will depend on “The officer was referring to the fact “President Obama’s decision to shelve man’s agreement to relocate missile Russia’s willingness to treat its neighbors that the announcement came on the Bush administration’s missile defense defense. and its people better. …” September 17, the 70th anniversary of the plans has created a crisis of confidence in “Like every other occasion in which Soviet invasion of Poland. A gesture to Washington’s relations with Central and the United States has forsaken Central “Missiles realism,” editorial, Russia on this date — a “brave” decision Eastern Europe. …The roots of this crisis Europe in pursuit of great-power bar- Financial Times, September 17: said Vladimir Putin — was the rough lie less in missile defense than in policy gains, such a move would set in motion “…the plan for installations in central equivalent for the Poles of their announc- failures over the past decade. … geopolitical consequences that U.S. dip- Europe was flawed. Abandoning it makes ing concessions to a U.S. foe on 9/11. “Our first mistake was being overly “Poland is now one of the very few optimistic about what would happen places in Europe that prefers former when these countries joined NATO and President Bush to Obama. the European Union. We basically “Now I’m sure Obama had no desire to checked the box ‘mission accomplished.’ insult Poland, even if the announcement We assumed that Russia would finally also came as Russia conducted large- accept that Central and Eastern Europe scale military maneuvers with Belarus, an were gone from its sphere of influence exercise on its western flank that sum- and stop trying to interfere in their region- mons the darkest specters of post-Soviet al politics. But … [Russia] still wants to Polish and Baltic-state angst. As U.S. create a zone of special Russian interest, timing goes, this was pitiful. …” influence and lesser security. “The second mistake was poor han- “Now, ‘Reset’ with the Poles and dling of our commitment to defend Czechs,” op-ed commentary by Mark Central and Eastern Europe counties Brzezinski, The New York Times, under Article 5 of the NATO Treaty. … September 21: we decided NATO did not need to station “President Obama’s decision to revise troops in those countries’ territory and the Bush administration’s plan for missile pledged instead to create a reinforcement defense in Europe has been greeted with capability that could be used in times of anxiety and alarm in the Czech Republic crisis. … But that NATO corps-size rein- and Poland. forcement capability never materialized. “The fear in these countries, and else- … where in Central Europe, is that the stra- “Central and Eastern Europeans have tegic relationship with the United States watched as one ally after another has pre- is being marginalized, and that relations vented NATO from acting over the past with Russia are being “reset” at the decade. NATO was AWOL during the region’s expense. August 2008 war between Russia and “Part of the problem is that rhetorically Georgia. … at least, the Bush administration seemed “While they are loath to say it publicly, to make the strategic partnership with the [Central and Eastern European] leaders Czech Republic and Poland synonymous have told me that they are no longer cer- with placement of missile defense radars tain NATO is capable of coming to their and interceptors on Czech and Poland soil rescue if there were a crisis involving respectively. Russia. … “As a result, even though placement of “We must take real steps toward solv- this hardware met with some public oppo- ing this problem by providing strategic sition in both countries (in the Czech reassurance to Central and Eastern Europe Republic more than in Poland), backing through the front door of NATO and not away from the system’s implementation the back door of missile defense. …”

To subscribe to The Ukrainian Weekly, call 973-292-9800, ext. 3042 No. 40 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 9 GENERATION UKE Edited and compiled by Matthew Dubas and Yarema Belej Eleven college-age missionaries head to orphanages in Ukraine by Bishop Daniel hygiene and medication. All learned how much culture influences healthcare. The SOUTH BOUND BROOK, N.J. – A staff workers and the administration of group of 11 college-age missionaries of both orphanages in Znamianka and in the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Puhachiv do a remarkable job of being U.S.A. (UOC of the U.S.A.) traveled to sensitive to the individual needs of chil- Ukraine from July 30 through August 15, dren while integrating poorly available visiting two orphanages that are spon- modern healthcare skills and medicine sored by the Church. The children and the into their practices. administration of the orphanages in This writer and Carol Skocypec, a mem- Znamianka (Kirovohrad Oblast) and ber of St. Ignatius of Antioch Orthodox Puhachiv (Zhytomyr Oblast) welcomed Church in Mesa, Ariz., led this year’s the missionaries from the moment they Mission Team to orphanages in Ukraine. arrived to the minute they left. Whether The mission journey was organized by the they were playing with them or just bring- Consistory of the UOC of the U.S.A. – ing food to the table in dining room, they Offices of Youth and Young Adult Ministry never stopped assuring the young mis- (Natalie Kapeluck-Nixon, director, and sionaries: “Come back! You are welcome Protodeacon Ihor Mahlay, director of again and again.” Missions and Christian Charity). The days were spent praying with chil- This year’s mission team consisted of dren, doing arts and crafts, assisting nan- nine students: Andrea Komichak and nies with their daily responsibilities and Oksana Mahlay of St. Vladimir Ukrainian Members of the 2009 mission team, led by Bishop Daniel (center), provide fellow- painting – these are a few of the activities Orthodox Cathedral in Parma, Ohio; ship to Ukraine’s orphans. that the 11 mission team members were Mark Meschishen of Holy Archangel involved this past trip. From a healthcare Michael Parish in Woonsocket, R.I.; Pittsburgh; Subdeacon Vasyl Pasakas and selected because these institutions were perspective, the team was able to learn Joseph and Andrew Zimmerman of St. Seminarian Vasyl Dovgan of St. Sophia in particularly deplorable condition for and share information with the staff Mary Cathedral, Allentown, Pa.; Lara Ukrainian Orthodox Theological the housing and care of children with regarding preventive measures, diet, Haluszczak of St. Vladimir Parish, Seminary in South Bound Brook, N.J.; physical and mental birth defects. and Olesya Komichak, Ukrainian A mission trip is planned to return to Catholic Eparchy of Parma. Znamianka from December 27 through Almost 11 years ago, the UOC of the January 3, 2010, and to celebrate the life First-time member of Mission Team U.S.A., in partnership with the Children of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker. For of Chornobyl Relief and Development more information, readers may visit http:// Fund (CCRDF), adopted two orphanages www.uocofusa.org/news_090923_4.html describes her experience in Ukraine in Ukraine. Orphanages in Znamianka, or contact Protodeacon Mahlay, by e-mail: Zaluchia, (Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast), and, [email protected]. The deadline for by Olesya Komichak later, a third orphanage in Puhachiv were applications is October 20. Love is a very powerful emotion. The word “love” conveys many meanings – the affection for a husband or wife, the ability to give everything for a child, and the care for parishioners. God tells us to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. However, when we walk down the street or watch the evening news, do we really feel com- passion for another’s pain or sorrow? Sometimes we do, but often we remark on his misfortune and then move on with our lives. Personally, it will never be easy to turn away from the unfortunate. Visiting the children at the orphanages in Znamianka and Puhachiv taught me to love deeper than I had ever imagined possible. The children at Znamianka run through my mind every day. The younger children were easy to please with simple hugs and games. Their genuine excitement from Olesya Komichak in Ukraine. signs of affection gave us the opportunity to love them as our own children for those One of the saddest and most heart- five days. Knowing I was able to make wrenching moments for me happened their day a little bit brighter makes the when we took some of the older kids to the memory of the boys and girls that much town of Znamianka to experience life out- sweeter. side the walls of their orphanage. Each A nine-year-old boy named Serhiy is child smiled warmly and greeted passers- extremely bright, and already knows how by with a hello and wave. Out of the doz- to read and write in Ukrainian. He has ens of people they said hello to, only a learned with the help of a teacher who handful acknowledged their greetings. I comes to the orphanage. When I met him was pushing Serhiy’s wheelchair down the on Sunday evening, Serhiy told me that he dirt sidewalk as a young couple was looking forward to class the following approached us. Serhiy waved and enthusi- morning, all while he figured out how to astically said hello. The couple turned use our digital cameras. I enjoyed the time their heads away and continued down the that I spent with him that night as I sat on street. I tried to ignore their rudeness, but the floor of the hallway so I could be the I looked down to see Serhiy turn around in same height as he is in his wheelchair. his wheelchair, look up at me, then asked, Serhiy is unable to use his legs. “Why won’t anyone say hello to me?” My team members and I often reflected How do you tell a child that you love on how different some of these children’s that people do not want anything to do with lives could be if given the chance to devel- the handicapped? You do not, because op outside of the orphanage. Serhiy has there is nothing that can be said. Even in the intelligence to become something Puhachiv, where working with severely great, but it is limited due to the attitudes mentally disabled girls was an enormous held by many Ukrainians against mentally and physically handicapped children. (Continued on page 21) 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 No. 40 Soyuzivka hosts Labor Day weekend swim meet by Marika Bokalo American Youth Association (UAYA). The swim meet ran smoothly due to KERSHONKSON, N.Y. – Another the support and cooperation of many vol- fantastic swim meet took place over the unteers. The meet was organized and led Labor Day weekend at Soyuzivka. The by Ms. Bokalo. John Makar was stroke beautiful blue sky, the warm weather and and turn judge, while Roman Hirniak was the appealing water enhanced the enthusi- the starter. Participating as timers were asm of the competing swimmers. There Myron Olesnysky, Peter Prociuk, Ivan were 30 swimmers, a lower number than Kozak, Angie Kozak, Taras Kozak, Frank usual, perhaps due to the earlier begin- Centore and Orest Lebed. Scorers were ning of the 2009-2010 school year. Chris Peters, Marusia Makar and Nick The official opening of the swimming Prociuk. and tennis competition, held under the After the swim meet, medals and tro- aegis of the Ukrainian Sorts Federation of phies were presented in the Veselka Hall. the U.S.A. and Canada (known by its Ms. Bokalo thanked the swimmers and Ukrainian acronym as USCAK), took their parents for their participation. She place at the pool with the raising of the expressed gratitude to the Soyuzivka American, Canadian and Ukrainian flags management and staff for the use of the and the singing of the respective anthems. facility and their congeniality. Participants and viewers were greeted by Ms. Lisovich and USCAK President George Sawchak, USCAK tennis chair; Myron Stebelsky added their words of Roma Lisovich, Ukrainian National congratulations for the successful swim Association treasurer; Omelan meet and gratitude to the participants and Twardowsky, USCAK representative; and their parents, who brought them to the Marika Bokalo, USCAK swim chair, who meet. expressed words of gratitude to all the Medals and trophies donated by the participants and wished all the competi- UNA were presented to individual swim- Roman Hirniak (left) instructs swimmers during the meet. tors good luck. mers and teams. Cheers were heard The swimmers represented throughout the hall when winners of the Sitch – 225, Tryzub – 48 and UAYA – 46. renovations. Chornomorska Sitch, based in Whippany, individual events were announced and a It should be noted that $5 of the regis- At the end of the ceremonies, there N.J.; the Tryzub Sports Club headquar- great cheer resounded when the team tration fee (a total of $150) was donated were hugs and kisses, and promises to tered in Horsham, Pa., and the Ukrainian points were announced: Chornomorska to the Soyuzivka Heritage Center for pool meet again next year. Results of 2009 swim meet Boys 10 and under 25 m. backstroke 50 m. butterfly Girls 11-12 1. Darrick Girardi, Sitch, 18.40 1. Daniel Centore, Sitch, 38.65 25 m. freestyle 2. Stefan Olesnyckyj, Sitch, 39.20 25 m. freestyle 1. Dmitri Shlapnikov, Sitch, 17.20 25 m. breaststroke 3. Nick Maselko, Sitch, 49.95 1. Maya Lopatynska, Sitch, 20.70 2. Daniel Centore, Sitch, 19.14 1. Pavlo Kozak, Sitch, 20.25 3. Mark Mikuta, Sitch, 21.99 2. Darrick Girardi, Sitch, 23.86 Boys 15 and over 50 m. freestyle 1. Maya Lopatynska, Sitch, 47.33 50 m. freestyle 25 m. butterfly 100 m. individual medley 1. Oles Polishchuk, Sitch, 46.38 1. Darrick Girardi, Sitch, 18.18 1. Luke Kuryluk, UAYA, 1:11.95 25 m. backstroke 2. Mark Mikuta, Sitch, 53.39 2. Pavlo Kozak, Sitch, 19.15 2. Pavlo Tershakovec, Tryzub, 1:16.67 1. Sofiyka Polishchuk, Sitch, 22.89 3. Basil Stolar, UAYA, 1:19.35 25 m. backstroke 4 x 25 m. relay 25 m. breaststroke 1. Oles Polishchuk, Sitch, 23.20 1. Pavlo Kozak, Oles Polishchuk, 50 m. freestyle 1. Sofiyka Polishchuk, Sitch, 25.29 2. Daniel Loukachouk, Sitch, 24.07 Garrick Girardi, Mark Mikuta 1. Luke Kuryluk, UAYA, 27:17 3. Anthony Napreev, Sitch, 27.58 Boys 13-14 2. William Makar, Sitch, 27:18 4 x 25 m. relay 3. Mark Makar, Sitch, 27.29 1. Sofiyka Polishchuk, Carolyna 25 m. breaststroke 100 m. individual medley Rokicki, Maya Lopatynska, Arianna 1. Dmitri Shlapnikov, Sitch, 21.58 1. Michael Tershakovec, Tryzub, 100 m. freestyle Centore, Sitch, 1:27.52 2. Daniel Sosiak, Sitch, 50.71 1.27.03 1. Gregory Fat, Tryzub, 1:02.10 Girls 13-14 25 m. butterfly 50 m. freestyle 50 m. backstroke 100 m. individual medley 1. Oles Polishchuk, Sitch, 21.00 1. Michael Tershakovec, Tryzub, 33.48 1. Gregory Fat, Tryzub, 39:13 1. Alexandra Teniuch, UAYA, 1:52.30 2. Daniel Loukachouk, Sitch, 21.58 2. Stefan Olesnyckyj, Sitch, 33.96 1. Dmitri Shlapnikov, Sitch, 24.51 3. Daniel Centore, Sitch, 34.26 50 m. breaststroke 50 m. freestyle 1. Mark Makar, Sitch, 37.08 1. Larissa Pywowariw, Sitch, 41:44 4 x 25 m. relay 100 m. freestyle 2. Basil Stolar, UAYA, 37.77 2. Alexandra Teniuch, UAYA, 42:91 1. Dmitri Shlapnikov, Anthony 1. Andrew Tarasiuk, Tryzub, 1:38.32 3. Pavlo Tershakovec, Tryzub, 38.42 Napreev, Daniel Sosiak, Daniel 100 m. freestyle Loukachouk 50 m. backstroke 50 m. butterfly 1. Melissa McPhillips, Sitch, 1:34.38 1. Stefan Olesnyckyj, Sitch, 40.10 1. Gregory Fat, Tryzub, 28.73 2. Larissa Pywowariw, Sitch, 1:35.04 Boys 11-12 2. William Makar, Sitch, 28.78 50 m. breaststroke 3. Luke Kuryluk, UAYA, 30.39 50 m. backstroke 50 m. freestyle 1. Michael Tershakovec, Tryzub, 42.61 1. Melissa McPhillips, Sitch, 46.33 1. Pavlo Kozak, Sitch, 35.33 2. Daniel Centore, Sitch, 43.95 4 x 50 m. relay 3. Nick Maselko, Sitch, 48.00 1. Mark Makar, Stefan Olesnycky, William 50 m. breaststroke Makar, Daniel Centore, Sitch, 2:23.20. 1. Melissa McPhillips, Sitch, 51.54 2. Pavlo Tershakovec, Gregory Fat, 2. Alexandra Teniuch, UAYA, 52.11 Michael Tershakovec, Nick Maselko, Tryzub 2.29.73 Girls 15 and over

Girls 10 and under 100 m. individual medley 1. Lesia Olesnycky, Sitch, 1:21.00 25 m. freestyle 2. Bohdanna Stolar, UAYA, 1:32.81 1. Carolyna Rokicki, Sitch, 21.72 3. Lida Apostoliuk, UAYA, 1:33.53

50 m. freestyle 50 m. freestyle 1. Arianna Centore, Sitch, 42.70 1. Lesia Olesnycky, Sitch, 30.71 2. Lida Apostoliuk, UAYA, 35.92 25 m. backstroke 3. Bohdanna Stolar, UAYA, 36.76 1. Arianna Centore, Sitch, 21.16 2. Carolyna Rokicki, Sitch, 25.40 100 m. freestyle 1. Lesia Olesnycky, Sitch, 36.76 25 m. breaststroke 2. Lida Apostoliuk, UAYA, 1:24.28 1. Arianna Centore, Sitch, 29.88 2. Carolyna Rokicki, Sitch, 32.68 50 m. backstroke 1. Bohdanna Stolar, UAYA, 46.90 25 m. butterfly 1. Sofiyka Polishchuk, Sitch, 26.54 50 m. breaststroke Swimmers of Chornomorska Sitch, who won the team trophy. 1. Larissa Pywowariw, Sitch, 55.79 No. 40 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 11 Bandura Camps mark 30th anniversary in Emlenton, Pa. by Andriy Matlak EMLENTON, Pa. – The year 2009 marks the 30th anniversary of bandura seminars sponsored by the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus and held at the All Saints Ukrainian Orthodox Church Camp in Emlenton, Pa. Thirty years ago a group of young bandu- ra enthusiasts visited the recently purchased property in western Pennsylvania. Impressed with the excellent facilities for such a music workshop, and with the beauty of the ever- green forests along a mountain river, the chorus established these bandura seminars. The Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the U.S.A. had bought the former YMCA camp, which encompassed 90 acres of land and 15 buildings, all along the Allegheny River, in 1978. During the next decades many improvements were made to the facilities, additional sports fields, a pool and a large heated building with a hall and classrooms were added. In 2008 a wooden chapel in the Carpathian Instructors, staff and students of Bandura Camp and Ukrainian Sacred Music Seminar after the divine liturgy on August 16. style was constructed and completed with iconography. Every summer, the camp corner of the world. Students from Western Sacred Music Seminar was held under the president of the Ukrainian Bandura Chorus. hosts various church and non-church Europe and Australia, and even from sponsorship of the Ukrainian Bandurist The bandura seminar concluded with a camps, including the bandura workshops. Ukraine, joined the participants from the Chorus in conjunction with the Ukrainian concert on Saturday, August 22, with all The music director of the early bandura United States and Canada. Orthodox Church of the U.S.A. Sixteen the students participating. The program camps was Hryhory Kytasty, a well-known This year, the general two-week course participants were enrolled in the course. included instrumental and vocal pieces of bandurist, composer and conductor of the was held on August 8-22. A separate spe- This year’s music co-directors of the various genres. Participating in the con- famous Ukrainian Bandura Chorus. The cial one-week seminar was given for bandura camps were Taras Lazurkevych cert were students that just two weeks administrator of the first camps was young children ages 8-12. Held daily and Oleh Sozansky, well-known bandura earlier did not know how to hold a ban- Maestro Kytasty’s student Ihor Mahlay. were classes of level-appropriate instruc- performers from Lviv and Merited Artists dura. During these 30 years, hundreds of youth tion, singing, music theory, music history of Ukraine. The two frequently commen- Thirty years ago Hryhory Kytasty had and those young at heart have participated and ensemble rehearsals. tated that this is the only bandura camp to a dream to share the bandura with others in the bandura seminars. Students of the Beyond the eight hours of instruction, be held anywhere in the world. Mr. far away from his native land. At bandura did not just learn how to play a time was set aside for sports, swimming Lazurkevych noted that these “courses “Kobzarska Sich” generations of young musical instrument, but this love of music and relaxation. This year the total number are on a high professional level among bandurists are fulfilling these dreams. and the Ukrainian heritage was nurtured at of participants was 67 – students, natural beauty and we are happy to be a For further information about the ban- was to become known as “Kobzarska Sich.” staff and instructors. part these children’s bandura future.” dura camps or general information about Bandura enthusiasts from various countries During the two-week encampment at The administrator of all bandura and the bandura readers may log onto www. and continents ventured to this beautiful All Saints Camp, a five-day Ukrainian sacred music courses was Anatoly Murha, bandura.org “The Year in Pictures” at The Ukrainian Museum NEW YORK – The New York Press The NYPPA has taken advantage of Photographers Association (NYPPA) is the new space we have been given holding its annual “The Year in through the generosity of the board of Pictures” Exhibit at The Ukrainian trustees of The Ukrainian Museum to Museum in New York City from showcase not only the images, but the September 30 to November 8. technology that allows photographs to The exhibit features the contest-win- be combined with text and graphics in ning images from the historic and piv- huge photographic prints. The exhibit is otal year 2008, which were selected underwritten by a grant from Con Ed. from more than 2,000 entries by a The Ukrainian Museum is open from three-member panel of judges from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday across the country. through Sunday. The museum is located Based in the New York metropolitan at 222 E. Sixth St., New York, NY area, NYPPA members cover news and 10003; telephone, 212-228-0110; web- feature stories from around the globe. site, www.ukrainianmuseum.org.

results.” Turning the pages... Both Ukraine and Russia delayed (Continued from page 6) releasing official statements on the jour- Putin” from her book “Putin’s Russia.” nalist’s murder, which drew criticism Similar protest events were held at the from protesters. Russian Consulates in Lviv and Ivan Andrusiak, who translated “Druha Symferopol. Chechenska” into Ukrainian, remembered Politkovskaya as a gentle, fragile woman, At the time, 12 journalists had been who was simultaneously fearless. murdered during Vladimir Putin’s six “She absolutely didn’t fear anything, years as president of the Russian although she understood well that she Federation. A report by the International could be killed at any moment,” he said. Committee to Defend Journalists ranked “There is no journalist of such caliber in Russia third in the number of murdered today’s Ukraine.” journalists, behind Iraq and Algeria. Politkovskaya’s murder remains Yegor Sobolyev, a prominent Ukrainian unsolved, and Russian authorities have journalist, said the Politkovskaya murder reopened the case after three suspects demonstrated just how far Ukraine had were acquitted of the murder. progressed ahead of Russia since the Orange Revolution. Russia’s democrati- Source: “Crusading journalist zation “can’t be evolutionary,” he said. Politkovskaya remembered in Kyiv,” by “It will always be revolutionary. And rev- Olena Labunka and Zenon Zawada, The olutions in Russia have unpredictable Ukrainian Weekly, October 15, 2006. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 No. 40 No. 40 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 13 TRAVELS: Adventures up high –a trek to Everest base camp by Ulyana Nadia Horodyskyj need to go without (much) tribulation. Our official Everest adventure began It is hard to imagine that just a few when we boarded a tiny plane, operated by months ago, I was on the other side of the Yeti Airlines, to get to Lukla, Nepal, the world, fighting my way through frigid start of the base camp trek. The flight was temperatures and blowing snow to the breathtaking (and a bit hairy), as we soared base of Mount Everest. away from the polluted skies of Before my journey to Nepal, I had fol- Kathmandu and into the pristine lowed many accounts about climbing Himalayas, before landing on a tiny run- Mount Everest, which, at over 29,000 feet way carved into the side of a mountain. I (8,850 meters), is the tallest mountain on was relieved that we landed without inci- Earth. Two that captured my imagination dent, as there had been two crashes at the were Jon Krakauer’s bestseller “Into Thin airstrip in the last six months. Air” and David Breashears’ film “Storm We began trekking on the afternoon of over Everest.” These works documented our arrival, even though now we were at the 1996 tragedy in which eight people, 9,000 feet (2,700 meters) in elevation. including two guides, perished on the After getting gear sorted, meeting our mountain during a deadly storm. Sherpa team and loading up our dzos (yaks These accounts increased my fascina- that have been cross-bred with cows), we tion with climbing, mountaineering and set out towards the Himalayan giants of the people who risked everything, even Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and Pumori. their own lives, for a chance to reach the We crossed a couple of suspension summit of this legendary mountain. bridges along the way that sometimes did Visiting Mount Everest is not a trip not seem as if they would hold our weight. taken on a whim. It requires diligent physi- We made way for Sherpas hauling cal preparation and expert help. For my 100-pound packs of wooden planks, food first high-altitude trekking experience, I and mattresses on route toward higher and joined a British group called KE more remote Himalayan destinations. And Adventure. After pulling an all-nighter to we watched in amazement as the dzos finish my semester finals, I traveled from hauled our gear up steep passes without so Boston to Los Angeles to Hong Kong and, much as a grunt or a snort. finally, to Kathmandu, eager to begin my Over the next 10 days, we trekked for explorations of a new country and culture. miles and miles – a total of 75 miles (125 Having arrived two days before the start kilometers) round-trip – climbing higher of the trek, I spent those days with a new- and higher, making stops along the way at found friend from Australia, another mem- teahouses, where our Sherpa teams would ber of the group. Together, we hired taxis set up camp for the night. We huffed and and explored the city, including the must- puffed our way up to Namche Bazaar, the see Monkey Temple. We also witnessed a Sherpa capital at 11,000 feet (3,350 funeral pyre and chaotic driving in the meters), which served as an acclimatiza- streets where cars, trucks, motorcycles, tion stop and, believe it or not, had a high- cows and people battled it out. Oddly speed Internet cafe. We learned that going enough, there is a method to the madness and people managed to get where they (Continued on page 16) The Ukrainian flag, at 18,000 feet, with Nuptse in the background. 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 No. 40

year alone Ukrainians adopted 1,528 chil- NEWSBRIEFS dren, and about 1,500 Ukrainian families CLACLASSSSIFIEDIFIEDSS (Continued from page 2) are engaged in drawing up documents for were held in late September, Viktor adoption,” Ms. Kondratiuk stated. TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL MARIA OSCISLAWSKI (973) 292-9800 x 3040 Yanukovych and Yulia Tymoshenko (Ukrinform) OR E-MAIL [email protected] would have the highest support among China vice-consul dies after accident voters, shows a survey conducted by the Ukrainian Democratic Circle at the KYIV – The vice-consul of the Chinese SERVICES PROFESSIONALS request of the Institute of Politics. A total Consulate General in Odesa, Zhou Xin Wei, of 28.9 percent of voters said they would who sustained heavy craniocerebral injuries back Mr. Yanukovych, and 20.8 percent during a road accident outside Yalta, Crimea, said they would support Ms. Tymoshenko. has died in hospital. The 35-year-old diplo- Other politicians have substantially lower mat died on September 29 despite all medi- support. In a runoff election, Mr. cal efforts, said Oleksander Dvorskyi, depu- Yanukovych would get 41 percent and ty head of the Crimean emergency aid cen- Ms. Tymoshenko 35.1 percent of the ter. The accident occurred when a Mercedes votes. (Ukrinform) car in the motorcade carrying the Chinese delegation to the sixth summit of the Yalta Ukraine and USAID sign MOU European Strategy collided with a VAZ car, KYIV – Ukraine’s Economy Minister which ran to the wrong side of the road. The Bohdan Danylyshyn and the director of VAZ driver was killed, and his two passen- Jaroslaw Lemega the U.S. Agency for International gers were injured. Four people in the Architect & DesignBuild Contractor Development (USAID) Mission to Mercedes were injured, including the mili- Custom Residential & Commercial Ukraine, Moldova and Belarus, Janina tary attaché of the Chinese Embassy in Design & Construction Service Jaruzelski, on September 25 signed a Ukraine, and two Ukrainian citizens. Tel.: 732-872-2512 (Ukrinform) Serving all of New Jersey memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Ukrainian and U.S. govern- Ukraine, U.S. commission to meet ments regarding basic directions and objectives of the assistance program of KYIV – The statutory meeting of the USAID for 2009-2010. Mr. Danylyshyn Ukraine-U.S. commission for strategic noted that the USAID-funded projects are partnership is due to be held in an important instrument in supporting Washington in late October. Ukraine’s Ukrainian reforms, including strengthen- acting Foreign Affairs Minister ing the financial sector, developing mar- Volodymyr Khandogiy and U.S. ket-oriented agriculture, supporting small Undersecretary of State William Burns GEORGE B. KORDUBA and medium-sized business, and address- reached an agreement on the meeting in Counsellor at Law ing social problems. “The conclusion of New York, the MFA press service report- the memorandum will become a measure Emphasis on Real Estate, Wills, Trusts and Elder Law ed on September 25. The focus of their Ward Witty Drive, P.O. Box 249 needed for gradual development of proper talks was to search for ways of strength- MONTVILLE, NJ 07045 conditions for technical and economic ening the strategic partnership relations Hours by Appointment Tel.: (973) 335-4555 cooperation between Ukraine and USAID between the United States and Ukraine on in 2009-2010, as well as an active mecha- the basis of the Strategic Partnership nism of attracting and using U.S. techni- Charter signed in December 2008. The cal assistance,” the Ukrainian minister Foreign Affairs Ministry of Ukraine noted said. (Ukrinform) that the United States confirmed its readi- ness to work toward implementation of Ukraine seeks higher role for CE the political decision made at the KYIV – Ukraine is interested in Bucharest summit regarding Ukraine’s strengthening the role of the Council of future membership in NATO and to ren- Europe in the European political architec- der relevant support in this connection, ture, President Viktor Yushchenko said at particularly with regard to implementa- a meeting with members of the Verkhovna tion of the national target program of Rada’s Permanent Delegation to the preparations for accession to NATO. Parliamentary Assembly of the Council Agreement was also reached on regular of Europe, it was reported by the presi- exchanges of information about a new dential press service on September 28. strategic concept for NATO, taking into “We back a leading role of the Council of account Ukrainian interests. (Ukrinform) MERCHANDISE Europe as a unique pan-European politi- cal forum that should maintain a leading Ukraine, Canada agree on roadmap role in the system of European institutes KYIV – Ukraine’s acting Foreign in the area of democracy, human rights Affairs Minister Volodymyr Khandogiy and rule of law. The Council of Europe met with Canada’s Foreign Minister should remain the only source of law- Lawrence Cannon within the framework making and Europe’s main expert for of their participation in the 64th session human rights standards,” Mr. Yushchenko of the United Nations General Assembly noted. He underlined that Ukraine’s par- in New York. The roadmap of Ukrainian- ticipation in the Council of Europe, Canadian relations was signed during the including the activity of the Verkhovna meeting. This document takes coopera- Rada’s Permanent Delegation, is an tion between Ukraine and Canada to a important direction of the country’s for- new level, codifying their mutual wish to eign policy. (Ukrinform) deepen bilateral relations and determining Birthrate up in Ukraine their priorities in the fields of economy, FOR SALE policy, security, humanitarian affairs and KYIV – During the first half of 2009, culture. Canada confirmed its support for birthrate indices in Ukraine increased as Ukraine’s possible accession to NATO, CONDO FOR SALE compared to 2007 and 2008, said Vice- and pledged to work together with Somerset NJ: Ukrainian Senior Citizens Center. Minister of Family, Youth and Sports Ukraine and member-countries of the alli- 2 bedrooms, living room, dining room, kitchen. Tetiana Kondratiuk. According to Ms. ance to meet this target. During the meet- Ground level. $145,000.00 Kondratiuk, in 2007 over 472,000 babies ing Mr. Khandohiy raised the question of 908-526-1259. were born in Ukraine, in 2008 – 510,500, gradual liberalization by Canada of its and in the first six months of this year – visa requirements for Ukrainian citizens. over 297,000. In addition, an increase in He also suggested holding political con- OPPORTUNITY the number of marriages and a reduction sultations between the two countries’ for- of divorces were reported. “Presently, there eign offices soon, and renewed the invita- EARN EXTRA INCOME! are 15 children per each 10 families,” the tion to Mr. Cannon to visit Ukraine. vice-minister said. She explained, that (Ukrinform) among families with children, 70 percent The Ukrainian Weekly is looking Secretariat challenges NATO referendum for advertising sales agents. have one child, 25 percent have two and 5 percent have three or more children. “What KYIV – The Presidential Secretariat For additional information contact is very important is that the number of Maria Oscislawski, Advertising has appealed to Kyiv’s Administrative adoptions is growing. Parents who have Court of Appeal against a judgment of Manager, The Ukrainian Weekly, their own children are taking orphaned Kyiv’s Administrative Court that obliges 973-292-9800, ext 3040. children into their families, and setting up children’s homes of the family type. This (Continued on page 15) No. 40 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 15

development that envisages relying on between Ukraine and Lithuania in the underlined that Ukraine has been experi- NEWSBRIEFS the country’s export and industrial poten- context of European and Euro-Atlantic encing a payment crisis that hit Eastern (Continued from page 14) tial, as well as on the electoral environ- integration. They also touched on the European countries in 1997-1998. He President Viktor Yushchenko to hold a ment, based mainly on the Russian lan- importance of fighting piracy, particularly said that the policies of the National Bank referendum on Ukraine’s membership in guage and Russian culture. Ms. in the context of the debates on this prob- of Ukraine amid the crisis has weakened NATO, the deputy head of the Presidential Tymoshenko’s campaign is based mainly lem within the framework of the 64th ses- people’s confidence in the national cur- Secretariat, Maryna Stavniychuk, said at on the western-central Ukrainian concept sion of the United Nations General rency; the government, he said, acted a briefing on September 25. In July, of development with an accent on Assembly, the president’s press service efficiently amid the crisis, and this could Kyiv’s Administrative Court obliged Eurointegration processes (mainly con- reported on September 24. (Ukrinform) be seen in an almost balanced budget. President Yushchenko to hold a referen- tacts with France and Germany). (Ukrinform) (Ukrinform) Yushchenko on integration with NATO dum regarding Ukraine’s accession to Ambassador Taylor has new post NATO and its participation in the CES Ukrainian, Russian foreign ministers talk KYIV – Addressing Ukrainian reporters along with Russia, Kazakhstan and in New York on September 23, President WASHINGTON – The United States Belarus. (Ukrinform) KYIV – Ukraine’s acting Foreign Viktor Yushchenko expressed confidence Institute of Peace has named William B. Affairs Minister Volodymyr Khandogiy that integration with NATO is the essence Taylor, Jr. to be vice-president of the Center External factors and Ukraine’s election held negotiations with his Russian coun- behind which Ukraine’s territorial integrity for Post-Conflict Peace and Stability effec- KYIV – The current presidential cam- terpart, Sergey Lavrov, in New York and independence stay. The president tive October 1. Mr. Taylor served as U.S. paign will be the first in the history of within the framework of the United emphasized that during his meeting with ambassador to Ukraine from 2006 to June Ukraine in which an external factor will Nations General Assembly’s 64th session. the NATO Secretary General Andres Fogh 2009. In his new capacity at USIP, he will not play any role, said the director of the The two ministers discussed the current Rasmussen, they confirmed the policy lead the institute’s efforts in societies Horshenin Institute of Management state of Ukraine-Russia relations and declared at the two latest NATO summits emerging from conflict, including oversee- Problems, Kost Bondarenko. “The pres- agreed on a plan for further ministerial regarding Ukraine and the perspectives for ing institute operations in Afghanistan and ent campaign will have several peculiari- consultations, the MFA press-service its membership in the alliance. The agree- Iraq. Until February 2006 Mr. Taylor was ties,” he said. “First, it will be a blitz- reported on September 24. Messrs. ments reached at the Bucharest summit the U.S. government’s representative to the campaign that will last only for three Khandogiy and Lavrov confirmed their were fully confirmed as the basis of bilat- efforts by the Quartet (United States, months. Today, the majority of contend- readiness to hold talks on the foreign- eral relations and cooperation prospects, European Union, United Nations and ers have neither a concept as to how to minister level in Kharkiv on October 6-7, Mr. Yushchenko stated. The two men also Russia) to facilitate the Israeli disengage- conduct a campaign, nor extended head- involving heads of border agencies, rep- focused on implementation of the Ukraine- ment from Gaza and parts of the West quarters, nor an understanding where to resentatives of relevant ministries and NATO target plan, and the operation of Bank, led by Special Envoy James get finances for the election. Second, it agencies of the two states. (Ukrinform) NATO’s communications office and infor- Wolfensohn in Jerusalem. Ambassador mation documentation center in Kyiv. Taylor served in Baghdad as director of the will be the first campaign in the history of Presidents of Ukraine, Lithuania meet Ukraine where an external factor will not Regarding the policy the alliance pursues Iraq Reconstruction Management Office play a role, neither the U.S.A., nor Russia, KYIV – During his meeting in New with non-member countries, including (2004-2005), in Kabul as coordinator of nor the EU will substantially influence York with President Dalia Grybauskaite Russia, this policy in no way blocks the U.S. government and international assis- the election process. Third, during the of Lithuania, Ukrainian President Viktor development of normal, promising rela- tance to Afghanistan (2002-2003) and in campaign, resources of Ukrainian oli- Yushchenko spoke highly about trade, tions between Ukraine and NATO, Mr. Washington with the rank of ambassador as garchs will not be actively involved; the and economic and energy cooperation Yushchenko said. (Ukrinform) coordinator of U.S. government assistance majority of presidential contenders are between the two countries. The two lead- Aslund: European countries ready to help to the former Soviet Union and Eastern seeking finances among representatives ers discussed the creation of the Caspian- Europe (1992-2002). He previously served of the second echelon of Ukrainian finan- Black-Baltic sea energy transit space, KYIV – European countries are ready in Brussels as deputy defense adviser at the ciers. Today the oligarchs do not support including the Eurasian oil transportation to help any Ukrainian government in U.S. Mission to NATO, in Washington on a single first-level politician.” Speaking corridor, the Odesa-Brody-Plock-Gdansk overcoming the effects of the global the staff of Sen. Bill Bradley (D-N.J.), at the about the favorites in the pre-election oil pipeline and prospects for extending a financial and economic downturn and National Defense University and in the U.S. campaign, Mr. Bondarenko said that two branch to Lithuania. The parties pointed carrying out necessary reforms. That was Department of Energy. As an infantry offi- contenders have a real chance: the leader out the importance of coordinating joint the opinion expressed by Dr. Anders cer in the U.S. Army, he served in Vietnam of the opposition Party of Regions of efforts for the sake of effective imple- Aslund of the Peterson Institute for and Germany. He graduated from the U.S. Ukraine, Viktor Yanukovych, and Prime mentation of the roadmap for the devel- International Economics during a round- Military Academy at West Point and Minister Yulia Tymoshenko. Mr. opment of a strategic partnership between table involving Ukraine’s Prime Minister Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Yanukovych is a bright representative of Ukraine and Lithuania in 2009-2010, as Yulia Tymoshenko. According to news Government. (United States Institute of Ukraine’s east and an eastern concept of well as intensification of cooperation reports of September 28, Dr. Aslund Peace) 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 No. 40

Later that night, my condition wors- Adventures up high... ened. I was nauseated, vomiting, and had a (Continued from page 13) wrenching pain in my side from incessant slowly is the key to staying healthy at coughing. As I lay in bed, I forced myself higher altitude. to sleep, and when I could not, I stuffed It is from Namche that I caught my first chocolate and crackers down my throat, in good view of Mount Everest, the mountain an attempt to have some energy for the of dreams, hopes and ambitions of many next morning’s base camp haul. climbers, and armchair climbers alike. At 5 a.m., we, a team of only seven (out Interacting with the locals along the of 16 people, as some were down with trail, as well as in the various teahouses, altitude sickness or simply too tired), set was an interesting cultural experience. out with our headlamps, in the sub-zero These people are so well-adapted to a sim- temperatures, and with only a bowl of por- ple life, up high near the “roof of the ridge to sustain us, for the final four-hour world.” Their cheerful faces, day and round-trip trek to base camp. Though I night, served as a reminder to me that, yes, made it and proudly hung a prayer flag indeed, life is simple. Life is joyous. You that I had gotten friends from back home really do not need much to survive. to sign for me, the trek back down to a Spending Christmas day in the compa- safe altitude was a long 10-hour ordeal. I ny of newfound friends, Westerners and could not walk or see straight, due to my Sherpas alike, halfway across the world weakened condition. Fortunately, a Sherpa from my family and friends, was a surreal friend stayed with me and guided me back. experience. Even at 14,000 feet (4,270 Our final days of the trek ended with an meters), I managed to muster up enough emergency helicopter evacuation of a energy for singing and dancing in the foot- friend who fell and threw out his back. He hills of the Himalaya range. is doing well now, but it was a long diffi- Ulyana Horodyskyj, tired and sick, finally making it to the base camp of Mount As we trekked higher, I experienced cult road to recovery. I brought my cough Everest. The Khumbu glacier is in the background. some symptoms of altitude sickness, such home with me, and it eventually subsided as headaches, nausea and loss of appetite. after a few weeks. I have since gained On top of that, I unfortunately came down back the weight I lost due to the illness. with a cold and a bad “Khumbu cough” as Having come back and had time to well (due to the very dry air). I attribute reflect on this trip for a few months now, I the cold to spending a night out in a tent can say that it humbled me to a great when it was below zero, in a place called extent. I now understand from personal Lobuche, about a day’s hike to base camp. experience how simple mistakes under My night of misery began when I first challenging, high-altitude conditions, as tried arranging gear in my tent. I sat on my well as foolish ambition, can quickly claim legs, cutting off circulation, and it took lives. nearly half an hour to walk normally again: Seeing the Sherpa memorial cairns on think pins and needles, but five times the way to base camp reminded me of all worse. Then, in the middle of the night, the good men who have perished on the after an excursion to the (cold) toilet tent, I slopes of the mountain. Even the experi- dropped my headlamp while back in my enced (like Rob Hall and Scott Fischer, tent and the batteries rolled out, not to be guides who perished in the 1996 tragedy) found again until the next morning. And, are not spared. Someday, I wish to climb as if that wasn’t enough, I busted the zip- this special mountain all the way to the per on my sleeping bag looking for the top, but after this experience, I realize that batteries, and was not able to get warm the being physically capable of doing it will whole night. not be enough. A strong will, good judg- The following day was a three-hour trek ment and favorable weather also will be Ulyana Horodyskyj, getting to know a friendly nak (a female yak). into Gorak Shep, site of a base camp in the essential to reaching the summit. 1950s. Here, I really struggled as I was not *** consuming enough calories to give me the energy to climb higher. When I finally Walking in the footsteps of my heroes, arrived at the teahouse, I remember think- like Tenzing Norgay, Sir Edmund Hillary, ing: “How am I going to get up Kala Pattar Ed Viesturs, David Breashears and Scott this afternoon, and then onward to base Fischer, made the journey a very special camp, on so little food and sleep, and a one for me, and one I will cherish. Of bad cough/cold? Can I do this? Should I course, I hope this trip is only the begin- do this?” ning of my explorations of the mystic Many people on the trek thought I was Himalayan giants. Currently, I work part- a “bit mad” for attempting to climb higher. time on a Himalayan glacier research proj- But, after a long and arduous trek up Kala ect with Mr. Breashears, world-renowned Pattar (with plenty of glucose pills), I mountaineer and Emmy award-winning smiled with satisfaction, eye-to-eye with filmmaker. We are preparing a visually Mount Everest, in all its glory. Seeing it stunning presentation on the impact of cli- from the clear air, at 18,500 feet (5,640 mate change in these vast ice fields. meters) was, literally, breath-taking. Climate change in the Himalayas is a However, soon the clouds rolled in and very real problem and awareness of chang- my “Kala Pattar summit time” was ing conditions is crucial for implementing reduced to only five minutes. I cherished action. If you would like to help spread those five minutes with the mountain, awareness about climate change, consider though. Tired as I was, the joy at seeing helping out on October 24, the the mountain I had read so much about International Day of Climate Action. For was intoxicating and helped propel me more information, please see the website back down safely to Gorak Shep, where a www.350.org for your chance to get The beautiful, cloud-filled valleys of the Himalaya range. Pictured from left are warm meal awaited me. involved. Everest, Lhotse and the “tooth-like” Ama Dablam.

heinous crimes of the Communist Party? ladies and gentlemen. The article is full could prompt certain politicians and par- The people act... Where should patience end and spontane- of well-known ideas about democracy. ties to make the issue a key platform.” (Continued from page 7) ous activity begin? That is the present But there are also some useful ideas about But you should meet with the hotheads police. Old communists complained, young urgent question. democracy in action: “Organizing a sin- and share with them their experience of people laughed. The case was referred to If it can not be done by the government gle-minded grassroots initiative with the pressuring the government: This, rather the courts for violation of the law. and the Parliament, then it will be done by simple, straightforward goal to remove than condemning activists, would make Of course, everyone understands that the people themselves. For what can one the capital’s Lenin monument would have more sense. this individual initiative was illegal. Yet expect from a Parliament, a part of which proven far more effective. Internet peti- What obligations are placed upon us also everyone understands that this state has been forcibly blocking parliamentary tions signed by tens of thousands of Kyiv by our historical experience? What threat of affairs cannot persist. The “populist” sessions for months? residents, followed by periodic and con- does indifference pose to us? Why is government will become a laughing So I was quite surprised to learn that sistent demonstrations involving a cross Ukrainian youth unwilling to put up with stock. Is it absolutely necessary to suffer The Ukrainian Weekly called for the section of society, could go a long way to the schizophrenia of incompatibles? Communists, to leave them with their supremacy of legal methods, and sharply stir Kyiv’s otherwise indifferent political privileges and benefits? Or should it be rebuked the actions of Mykola leadership. Persistent phone calls, letters Translated by Jurij Darewych and remembered that they are complicit in the Kokhanivsky. I wish you were right, and public marches to maintain pressure Andriy Oliinyk. No. 40 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 17

Property Fund (SPF) Chair Valentyna Viktor Yanukovych. Government officials is a partnership between Mr. Kolomoisky Auction of Odesa... Semeniuk-Samsonenko, an ally of the are still negotiating with international and Oleksander Yaroslavskyi, industrial (Continued from page 1) president, and even created a separate creditors and said they’re confident the magnates who own two of Ukraine’s “The conspiracy of three planned par- SPF with her own appointed chair, Andrii loan will be restructured. other biggest ammonia and carbamide ticipants to buy the Odesa Portside Plant Portnov. “If Naftohaz won’t be balanced, no producing plants. for an unreasonably low price was appar- She eventually mustered a parliamen- privatization will help it,” President Mr. Kolomoisky, a Dnipropetrovsk bil- ent on live television today,” the prime tary majority to dismiss Ms. Semeniuk- Yushchenko said at a September 30 press lionaire who resides in Switzerland, con- minister alleged that afternoon. Samsonenko in December 2008 and the conference. “The Odesa Portside Plant’s trols DniproAzot, while Mr. Yaroslavskyi, Yet her claims drew ridicule from following month appointed acting Chair privatization will cost us a month’s debt Kharkiv’s wealthiest resident, owns political opponents and impartial observ- Dmytro Parfenenko, who has acted as her for natural gas. So we’ll survive another CherkasyAzot. (Azot is the Ukrainian ers alike, who wondered how the govern- proxy at the State Property Fund. month, and then what? Sell Crimea?” word for nitrogen, a key ingredient in fer- ment could cancel an auction, on the basis In July, Presidential Secretariat First In turn, Ms. Tymoshenko was upset tilizer products along with ammonia.) that the price wasn’t high enough, when Deputy Oleksander Shlapak had said the with the president for issuing a decree on Company executives vowed a legal the final bid was 20 percent higher than president didn’t oppose the Odesa September 17 to forbid the sale, which battle to secure their auction victory. the starting price of 4 billion hrv (about Portside Plant’s sale, but Mr. scared off many legitimate international “The issue of price surfaced after the $488 million). Yushchenko’s attitude changed with the buyers whose involvement could have commissioners returned from the deliber- President Viktor Yushchenko called the arrival of the presidential election cam- boosted the sale price. ation room,” said Timur Novikov, deputy episode “shameful.” Conspiracy theories paign season. Among those lucrative buyers was chairman of Privat Bank, which is con- abounded afterwards. “He says this factory can’t be sold out Yara International ASA of Norway, the trolled by Mr. Kolomoisky. Presidential candidate Arseniy of national interests, and maybe world’s largest producer of fertilizers. “They went there in one mood, and Yatsenyuk alleged that Ms. Tymoshenko Yushchenko is merely covering his Yara was among 12 companies to file one of them even shook our hands and had reached a backroom deal with Mr. actions with that,” said Dr. Oleh Soskin, documents for a potential auction with congratulated us. And then a surprise. I Kolomoisky, then cancelled and criticized director of the Institute of Society Ukraine’s Anti-Monopoly Committee but think an element of the Cabinet’s control the auction to save face before the public. Transformation in Kyiv. “But he doesn’t stopped its registration process after the of the [State] Property Fund occurred in The respected Ekonomichna Pravda want her [Ms. Tymoshenko] to pay the presidential decree, said Ildar Hazizulin, that room,” he added. news website speculated that Ms. debt because that will strengthen her. He an economist at the International Center It’s possible the courts could uphold Tymoshenko had a backroom deal with wants to push her out of government.” for Prospective Studies in Kyiv. the State Property Fund’s decision to Gazprom, the Russian natural gas monop- The Odesa Portside auction was orga- “The president practically scared off block the sale, observers said. oly, to let its affiliated company Sibur win nized hastily, within a few weeks, and the main investor and the competition’s A precedent was set in 2005 when the auction. didn’t fulfill all the legal requirements, favorite,” he said. mega-millionaire Kostyantyn Zhevago Sibur backed out of the bidding, such as parliamentary approval, a privati- Following the auction, Ms. won a court ruling that upheld his 2001 according to another theory, because it zation program and even a legally deter- Tymoshenko revealed her rage when purchase of a majority stake in the reached a deal with Mr. Kolomoisky, who mined starting price, said Dr. Soskin. demanding the dismissal of the judges LuhanskTeploVoz factory for a meager made agreements with his competitors The closed-door meeting, which who ruled to block the auction, thereby $8.6 million – a fraction of its true value, either with or without Ms. Tymoshenko’s occurred minutes after the auction con- repelling interested investors. Ms. Semeniuk-Samsonenko said. Mr. knowledge. cluded, was in violation of the SPF’s reg- Yara International would have been the Zhevago bought the factory at an auction In his public statements, Mr. ulations, Ms. Semeniuk-Samsonenko best candidate to buy Odesa Portside, said whose results also were rejected, she said. Kolomoisky said he believed Ms. said. “It was a farce,” she said. “We can’t Petro Burkovskyi, an economist at the “A show took place in which the issue Tymoshenko blocked the sale because his speak of any transparency when the com- National University of Kyiv Mohyla wasn’t resolved, but the next day a court winning bid undermined a deal she alleg- mission stood during the competition and Academy. “The best investors were the ruling gave the factory to the [auction] win- edly struck with the Russian contenders – went off somewhere. Commissioners Norwegians because they’re farther off and ner,” she said. “This matter will be done in Sibur and Frunze-Florda, owned by can’t even walk around the hall during we wouldn’t have the same strategic antipa- such a way that the [State] Property Fund Konstantin Grigorishin. the auction according to regulations, let thy with them as with Russia,” he said. and the state lose everything.” “Obviously there was a conspiracy alone walk out.” “And they wouldn’t have used this purchase Not everyone is as pessimistic. The and intent by the government to sell the The price of the Odesa Portside Plant for political pressure in the future.” factory ultimately will remain as state factory at an unreasonably low price,” was estimated as high as $2 billion (U.S.) The factory’s fate remains unclear. The property and sold when the market condi- said Oleksander Paliy, an expert at the in the summer of 2008, when Ukraine’s company that won the auction, Nortima, tions improve, Mr. Burkovskyi said. Foreign Policy Research Institute at the economy was still growing. But the fall Foreign Affairs Ministry in Kyiv. 2008 global financial crisis caused fertil- “I just don’t know with whom she [the izer prices to plummet by more than 75 prime minister] conspired – Kolomoisky, percent. the Russians or all of them. She set up very The depressed fertilizer market com- convenient conditions for Kolomoisky. He bined with Ukraine’s higher prices for will win in court, and she will remove the natural gas, which is critical to the plant shame of this privatization.” for producing ammonia and carbamide, President Yushchenko and Prime erased much of the plant’s luster and Minister Tymoshenko have waged a tug- value. of-war over the Odesa Portside Plant ever In light of the plant’s both past and since she took office in December 2007. future potential price, the auction’s sale at The president has wanted to prevent the 5 billion hrv (about $610 million) drew prime minister from gaining the revenues widespread criticism, particularly from from the sale, even more so in the current the president, who has fiercely criticized conditions when she’s in a difficult finan- the prime minister’s current fiscal policy, cial position. President Yushchenko would which he characterized as selling strategic prefer that the prime minister fail and her state assets to pay for debts. government default ahead of the elections, On September 30, Naftohaz Ukrayiny, political observers said. the state’s natural gas distribution monop- During their conflict, Ms. Tymoshenko oly, defaulted on a $500 million loan tried numerous times to dismiss State taken in 2004 by the government of

before May 2017, as was previously agreed. Yushchenko meets... He reminded his audience at the Council on (Continued from page 4) Foreign Relations that Ukraine and Russia gave an interview to the Associated Press. in 1997 signed an agreement in accordance During his meeting with NATO Secretary with which the Russian fleet would be based General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, Mr. in Crimea for 20 years. Yushchenko discussed Ukraine-NATO coop- He stressed that Ukraine’s integration eration and underscored that the new strate- with NATO and its future membership in gic concept of NATO must take into account the alliance pose no threat to anyone. Ukraine’s security interests. He was assured Ukraine has no alternative but to follow the by Mr. Rasmussen that NATO’s moves to path of international security policy and join strengthen cooperation with Russia will not the European collective security system, he be at the expense of the interests of Ukraine. said. Ukraine’s NATO membership and its While in New York, President independence are almost synonymous, the Yushchenko also spoke about U.S.-Ukraine president emphasized. relations in an address to the Council on According to the president’s website, Mr. Foreign Relations. Ukrinform reported that Yushchenko also attended a working lunch he emphasized that the special nature of on climate change that was hosted by U.N. relations between the two countries was Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon, took part sealed in the Ukrainian-American strategic in the opening ceremonies of the fifth anni- partnership charter signed in 2008. versary meeting of the Clinton Global Mr. Yushchenko expressed hope that Initiative and met with leaders of influential Russia would pull out its Black Sea Fleet Jewish organizations. 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 No. 40 NEW RELEASE: Compositions for piano by Ihor Sonevytsky WOODBRIDGE, N.J. – Duma Music Inc. has released “Ihor Sonevytsky: Selected Works for Piano,” a collection of 22 heretofore unpublished compositions for piano solo by the late composer, musi- cologist and educator. Born in Hadynkivtsi, near Chortkiv in western Ukraine, Maestro Sonevytsky began his musical studies at the Lysenko Institute in Lviv, Ukraine. At 18, upon the recommendation of the renowned Ukrainian composer Vasyl Barvinsky, he was accepted into the composition class of Josef Marx at the Vienna Music Academy. However, the Communist occupation of Vienna forced the Sonevytsky family into a displaced persons camp in Munich. There, in 1950, Sonevytsky completed Dr. Ihor Sonevytsky his musical studies with a diploma in composition, conducting and piano per- ident of The Music and Art Center of formance from the Hochschule für Musik. Greene County, where every summer He emigrated to the United States later world-class artists perform in an idyllic that same year, but returned to Munich a setting in the Catskills. He has written decade later to earn a doctoral degree in incidental music to 29 productions of the musicology from the Ukrainian Free acclaimed Theatre Studio of Lydia University in 1961. Krushelnytsky, an opera, a ballet, some Settling in New York, Sonevytsky co- chamber music, a series of piano works organized the Ukrainian Music Institute and an impressive catalogue of choral and and served as its director from 1959 to vocal music. 1961. In the next two decades he con- When Ukraine became independent in ducted five different Ukrainian choirs, August 1991, almost immediately, lead- organized and directed a Ukrainian string ing Ukrainian musicians began to seek orchestra and opera ensemble, taught pri- out and champion Sonevytsky’s works. In vate students, wrote over 500 music-relat- 1993, with the publication of a collection ed articles for various newspapers and of his solo songs by the Ukrainian State periodicals, wrote several books, edited Publishing House Muzychna Ukraina, many others, and accompanied a number Sonevytsky became the first Ukrainian of singers, recording several LPs of vocal émigré composer to be published in his music with them. In 1983 he organized and became pres- (Continued on page 19) No. 40 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 19 Compositions for... Klitschko defends WBC title against Arreola (Continued from page 18) PARSIPPANY, N.J. – Vitali Klitschko homeland. Two years later, his one-act (38-2, 37 KO) retained his WBC heavy- opera “The Star” was published by this weight title after a 10th-round TKO same firm. against Mexican American Chris Arreola Dr. Sonevytsky’s works continue to be (27-1) at the Staples Center in Los championed by world-renowned artists Angeles on September 26. such as Oleh Chmyr, Oksana Krovytska, Paul Plishka and Volodymyr Vynnytsky. Arreola’s trainer, Henry Ramirez, Duma Music’s newly released collec- stopped the bout in the 10th round after tion is the first publication of these 22 the challenger’s face was a bloody mess piano works. The first four were written from taking over 300 blows from in 1944 while Sonevytsky was studying Klitschko (151 of which were right-hand- at the Vienna Music Academy. Seven ed shots). originated as incidental music to the pro- “He was taking too much punishment,” ductions of the Theater Studio of Lydia Ramirez said. “When I told him I was Krushelnytsky, with whom the composer going to stop the fight he was irate.” enjoyed a 35-year collaboration. Five are Arreola attempted to get inside from Sonevytsky’s ballet “Cinderella,” Klitschko’s long reach, but the strategy premiered in 1967 by the Roma Pryma did not pay off. Bohachevsky School of Ballet. Klitschko, 38, was unable to drive Getty Images Sonevytsky’s piano writing is charac- Arreola to the canvas with his shots, and Vitali Klitschko pounds Chris Arreola. terized by an elegant clarity – the works never landed enough big punches to make are eminently playable, even for students. the challenger want to quit. with landing 86 of 331 thrown. next duel, I hope it will take place before Often drawing inspiration from Ukrainian “I know I was hurting him a lot, but he Klitschko told the website Sports Club the end of the year.” folk music, the composer employs adven- has a great, great chin,” Klitschko said. “I ISD that he would soon be ending his Details on Klitschko’s next fight are turous, atypical harmonization schemes. was surprised he did not come out [for boxing career after two or three more unconfirmed, but a preliminary date was The pieces drawn from the theater and the 11th round].” bouts: “I’m not going to beat George announced by his management for ballet productions are imbued with pro- Ringside judges tallied 802 total Foreman’s record and be in the ring up to December 12 in Germany against either grammatic color and wit, as befits their punches thrown by Klitschko, of which 45 years. Two to three more fights and American Kevin Johnson or Russia’s dramatic origin. All 22 works, however, 301 landed, and Arreola was credited I’ll wind up my boxing career. As for the Oleg Maskaev. stand firmly on their own as welcome additions to the solo piano repertoire, and are particularly well suited for intermedi- ate to advanced piano students. “Ihor Sonevytsky: Selected Works for Piano” can be purchased at sheet music retailers, Ukrainian gift stores or directly from the publisher by visiting http://dum- amusic.com or calling 732-636-5406.

Obama nominates... (Continued from page 1) Moldova. In 2003-2005 Mr. Tefft was the international affairs advisor at the National War College in Washington. He served as U.S. ambassador to Lithuania in 2000-2003. He was deputy chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow in 1996-1999 and served as chargé d’affaires from November 1996 to September 1997. His other Foreign Service assignments include Jerusalem, Budapest and Rome. Mr. Tefft holds a bachelor’s degree from Marquette University (Milwaukee) and a master’s degree from Georgetown University. The nomination is expected to be approved by the U.S. Senate. While visiting Kyiv this week, Alexander Vershbow, U.S. assistant sec- retary of defense for international security affairs, said that a new ambassador to Ukraine might arrive in Kyiv in a couple of weeks. Ukrinform reported that, addressing the Diplomatic Academy of Ukraine on September 29, Mr. Vershbow said a new head of the U.S. diplomatic mission to Ukraine would soon arrive, but he did not say who the new envoy would be.

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and Vopli Vidoplyasova (a famous band in Whom will Washington... Ukraine that supported Mr. Yushchenko in (Continued from page 2) 2004 and helped to popularize the Orange played a central role in Mr. Obama’s suc- Revolution). The first of many rock concerts cessful public relations campaign. This was held on Independence Square on undermined Mr. Yatsenyuk, believed by September 12; it was attended by Ms. many (up to the culling of Ukrainian consul- Tymoshenko and 50,000 spectators (Kyiv tants) to be “Ukraine’s Obama” (see the pic- Post, September 17). ture of Mr. Yatsenyuk as “Ukraine’s In Ukraine, discussions of “Washington” Obama?” on the front cover of the May wrongly lump together the present adminis- issue of Business Ukraine magazine). tration, which officially will not support any The AKPD contract became public candidate, think-tank experts and private knowledge with a lengthy analysis titled consultants employed by Ukrainian candi- “King Makers for Tymoshenko” in dates or political parties. The Bush adminis- Ukrayinska Pravda (September 2-3). One of tration did not support a Ukrainian candidate the firm’s first steps has been to re-fashion in the 2004 elections – unlike Russia, whose Ms. Tymoshenko on the Internet (www. then President Vladimir Putin twice traveled tymoshenko.ua and www.blog.tymoshenko. to Ukraine to support Mr. Yanukovych. ua) and to have input on Ms. Tymoshenko’s Russian political consultants on loan billboards, widely seen as the best produced from Mr. Putin, such as Gleb Pavlovsky, by all of the candidates that portray her worked for the Mr Yanukovych cam- competitors as arguing or undermining her, paign. U.S. political consultants working while she as head of government is busily for three Ukrainian candidates represent working to extricate Ukraine from the private companies, not the Obama admin- impact of the global financial crisis. “They istration. Nonetheless, this distinction quarrel. She works,” one of the billboards appears lost on Ukrainian observers of declares (Ukrayinska Pravda, September U.S. foreign policy. 10). Ms. Tymoshenko has also managed to The article above is reprinted from find support from Ukraine’s most well- Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from known rock bands, such as Druha Rika its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, (which backed Mr. Yanukovych in 2004) www.jamestown.org. No. 40 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 21

Yavorivsky, Hunczak to be featured speakers ST. NlCHOLAS CATHEDRAL SCHOOL 2200 W. Rice St. at 20th anniversary commemorations of Rukh Chicago, IL 60622 WHIPPANY, N.J. – Among the dramatic the declaration of Ukraine’s independence political changes that transformed Eastern two years later. Europe and the former Soviet Union during The commemorative programs will also OPEN HOUSE the late 1980s was the establishment of include a video montage of excerpts from Rukh – the Popular Movement of Ukraine the First Congress of Rukh. Unique WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21 5 to 7 p.m. for Perebudova – in September 1989. moments from now historic speeches that In Ukrainian American communities in helped mobilize a new generation of activ- Your child can achieve academic success with our proven Whippany, N.J., New York City and ists to work for the independence of Ukraine teaching methods: Jenkintown, Pa., special programs com- will be showcased. memorating the 20th anniversary of this The first commemorative evening will be • Our students rank higher academically than students in important event will be held this October. held on Saturday, October 17, at 7:30 p.m. at Along with local organizers and sponsors, the Ukrainian American Cultural Center of peer schools the Ukrainian National Association is also a New Jersey (UACCNJ) in Whippany. In • Our students are sponsor of these commemorative programs. addition to the featured speakers, the accepted at the best Featured speakers at the commemora- renowned Dumka choir will perform at the high schools in tions include the chairman of the organizing close of the evening. The Ukrainian Institute committee of the first congress of Rukh, of America (UIA) in New York City will Chicagoland National Deputy Volodymyr Yavorivsky, as host the commemorative events the follow- • Our students learn in well as a participant in the congress, Taras ing day, Sunday, October 18. In Jenkintown, small classes, begin- Hunczak, professor emeritus of history at the program will be held at the Ukrainian ning with a vibrant pre- Rutgers University. Both speakers, eyewit- Educational and Cultural Center on Tuesday, nesses to Rukh’s founding congress will October 20 at 7 p.m. school program offer their insights to the dynamic changes To obtain ticket information for the event • Our students can that were under way at the time in Ukraine at the UACCNJ readers may call choose among three and in the region, as well as the essential 973-590-8026; for the UIA call role played by the establishment of Rukh in 212-288-8660; for the event at the UECC foreign languages subsequent developments that culminated in call 215-663-1166. • Our students field a championship volleyball team • Our students are infused with the Byzantine Catholic tra- dition many hugs as I could and to love these • Full day program, pre-kindergarten age 3 to 8th grade First-time member... children as much as possible. Never (Continued from page 9) could I have imagined that they would challenge, I still could not help but want to hold such a special place in my heart, nor Visit at open house, arrange a personal tour, request an make them smile, to let them feel loved. did I ever believe I could be loved so information packet, tour our website, or make a donation The motherly and neighborly love I feel unconditionally by children I barely to support Ukrainian Catholic education: for these children has not stopped for a knew. My thoughts and prayers are with moment since I left the orphanages. The all the children of Puhachiv and hundreds of hugs and kisses, along with Znamianka. My only wish is that every- 773-384-7243 the thousands of smiles I received will be one has an opportunity to love a child, or or on the web, www.stnicholascathedralschool.org with me forever. children, the way God allowed me to love My personal mission was to give as those two weeks this summer. 22 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 No. 40

interests. It will consolidate the demo- thank you for the support that allows them Why does Ukraine... cratic achievements of recent years and Preview of events... to shape souls and educate minds for the (Continued from page 6) will make it impossible for our state to (Continued from page 24) good of Ukraine and beyond. The event discussion. slide back into its totalitarian past. made the film inspired by the famous story will take place at the Ukrainian National I am convinced that the Ukrainian peo- Ukraine’s response to modern challenges Home, 140 Second Ave., at 1 p.m. For by Nikolai Gogol (Mykola Hohol) about ple are capable of creating a law that is strengthening democracy as a safe- love, betrayal and revenge. Released in details contact Nell at [email protected] or guard of our great public and economic 773-235-8462. would be fully in line with the national Ukraine last April and widely distributed interests of Ukraine rather than the inter- development. I strongly believe that there, this film provoked a small storm Saturday, November 7 ests of individual politicians. There is a Ukraine as a state has promise and pros- among the Ukrainian public due to its pect of existence in the context of demo- unapologetic neo-colonialist politics and FOX CHASE MANOR, Pa.: The great tradition behind us. The Ukrainian ideology. Still, it is worth seeing as a docu- Philadelphia Friends of the Ukrainian Constitution of the 18th century by Pylyp cratic development only. ment of post-Soviet Russian revanchism Catholic University and the Ukrainian Orlyk was one of the first democratic made fascinating by the enthusiastic par- Catholic Education Foundation invite you laws in the world. President Viktor Yushchenko’s op-ed arti- ticipation of Ukrainian talent in the proj- to “UCU Today & Tomorrow: A It is only the new Constitution that will cle was released in Ukrainian and English ect, including the actors Bohdan Stupka, Reception, Presentation & Celebration.” enable Ukraine to develop as a strong, versions by the Embassy of Ukraine in the Ada Rohovtseva, Les Serdiuk, the artist Enjoy a convivial and informative experi- democratic state guided by the people’s United States on September 24. Serhiy Yakutovych, to name but a few. ence as special guests from the Ukrainian Notes Russian reviewer Roman Volobuev, Catholic University – including an accom- “Bortko, known for his pedantic treatment plished vocalist who will perform – update of literary texts, in this case, chopped and thank you for the support that allows proposal should not prompt us to shelve Gogol up into a salad and made use of them to shape souls and educate minds for Yushchenko addresses... or reject it altogether. … only those its pieces that will insult the the good of Ukraine and beyond. The (Continued from page 3) The principal and most important greatest number of inhabitants of sover- event takes place at the Basilian In this process, our organization can objective for our universal organization eign Ukraine.” Insult or not, the film Spirituality Center, 710 Fox Chase Road and should play its role in preventing the and for each of our countries is to protect reveals quite a lot about present-day in Fox Chase Manor, Pa. For details, con- Russia and Ukraine. Prof. Frank Sysyn, financial perturbations from spinning out common people from the crisis and to tact Nell at [email protected] or prevent the decline of their living stan- University of Toronto, and Prof. Catherine 773-235-8462. into social upheavals. Nepomnyashchy and Dr. Yuri Shevchuk, Perhaps, it is time to revisit the idea dards. … Columbia University, will discuss the film Sunday, November 8 previously expressed by Ukraine and We are capable of great achievements. after the screening. The screening is at CHICAGO: The Chicago Friends of the recently by a number of other countries. I I am firmly convinced of our strength to 7:30 p.m. in 702 Hamilton Hall, Columbia Ukrainian Catholic University and the mean the creation of the U.N. Economic move forward confidently for the benefit University. The film is in its original Ukrainian Catholic Education Foundation Russian-language version with English Security Council. The large scale of this of the world, our peoples and countries. subtitles. The event is free and open to the invite you to “UCU Today & Tomorrow: A public. Reception, Presentation & Celebration.” Enjoy a convivial and informative experi- Sunday, November 1 ence as special guests from the Ukrainian NEW YORK: The New York Friends of Catholic University– including an accom- the Ukrainian Catholic University and the plished vocalist who will perform – update Ukrainian Catholic Education Foundation and thank you for the support that allows invite you to “UCU Today & Tomorrow: A them to shape souls and educate minds for Reception, Presentation & Celebration.” the good of Ukraine and beyond. The Enjoy a complimentary sit-down meal as event will be held at the Ukrainian Cultural special guests from the Ukrainian Catholic Center, 2247 W. Chicago Ave. For details University – including an accomplished contact Nell at [email protected] or vocalist who will perform – update and 773-235-8462.

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Current through October 23 Art exhibit, “The Saturated Palette” by October 17 Dance, featuring Klopit, Ukrainian American New York Taras Borovyk, Agora Gallery 212-226-4151 Palatine, IL Youth Association – Palatine Branch, 773-414-5949 October 9-11 Philadelphia Open Studio Tours, Ukrainian Philadelphia League of Philadelphia, 215-684-3548 October 17 20th anniversary of Rukh, “Quiet Revolution Whippany, NJ of Ukraine,”with Volodymyr Yavorivsky and October 10 60th anniversary concert, featuring Taras Hunczak, Ukrainian American Cultural Washington Yevshan Ukrainian Vocal Ensemble, Holy Center of New Jersey, 973-585-7175 Family Ukrainian Catholic National Shrine, 202-526-3737 October 17 Fashion show, featuring Ukrainian clothing Winnipeg, MB and tapestry, Ukrainian Museum of Canada October 10-11 Oktoberfest, Mountain View Manor, – Manitoba Branch, 204-663-6242 Glen Spey, NY 845-856-1105 October 17-18 60th anniversary of the Assumption of the October 11 Luncheon and Fashion Show, Ukrainian Ottawa Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Orthodox Parma, OH National Women’s League of America – Cathedral, 613-422-0163 or 613-596-5906 Branch 12, St. Mary Protectress (Pokrova) Hall, 440-449-3456 or 440-884-1647 October 18 Annual dinner-concert, featuring Yevshan Hartford, CT Ukrainian Vocal Ensemble and Zolotyj October 13 Book presentation, “My Grandfather’s Mill Promin Ukrainian Dance Ensemble, Toronto – Journey to Freedom” by Andrew Melnyk, Ukrainian National Home of Hartford, Toronto Ukrainian Genealogy Group, 860-296-5702 St. Vladimir Institute, 905-841-6707 October 18 Concert, featuring violinist Zino Bogachek October 15 Concert, “Ukrainian Music with a World Alexandria, VA and Friends, The Washington Group Cultural Ottawa Sound,” featuring Sofia Bilozor and Damien Fund, 301-299-2615 or 703-838-4994 Sawka, AvantGarde Bar, October 18 Film screening, “Okradena Zemlya” by Yurij October 15-18 62nd Ukrainian American Veterans National Winnipeg, MB Luhovy, Manitoba Museum, 204-586-3445 Venice, FL Convention, UAV Post 40, Best Western Hotel, 941-536-1490 or 941-480-9898 October 18 Ukrainian Food Festival, St. Andrew Silver Spring, MD Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral, October 16 Conference, “Countering Democratic 301-384-9192 or 301-593-5316 Washington Regression in a Newly Divided Europe and Eurasia,” Johns Hopkins University, 202-663-5796 Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to October 17 USCAK Chess Tournament, Ukrainian events advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome Whippany, NJ Sports Federation of the U.S.A. and submissions from all our readers. Items will be published at the discre- Canada, Ukrainian American Cultural Center tion of the editors and as space allows. Please send e-mail to mdubas@ of New Jersey, http://uscak.blogspot.com ukrweekly.com. 24 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2009 No. 40 PREVIEW OF EVENTS Friday, October 9 ous film tells the remarkable real-life story of Dr. Marsh and Ukrainian physician Ihor WHIPPANY, N.J.: Iskra Ukrainian Dance Kurylets, who works around the clock to Soyuzivka’s Datebook Ensemble and Academy invites everyone get through the endless lines of people to a gala concert of Ukrainian folk dance who look upon the visiting English sur- featuring the ensembles Veselka from geon as their last hope. The museum’s film Prudentopolis, Brazil, and Iskra from series is supported in part by the New York Whippany, N.J. The concert begins at 7:30 City Department of Cultural Affairs. October 2-4 Carpathian Ski Club October 30-November 1 p.m. and will be held at the Ukrainian Donation (includes reception): $15; mem- (KLK) 85th anniversary celebra- Halloween weekend American Cultural Center of New Jersey, bers and seniors, $10; students, $5. RSVP tion 60 N. Jefferson Road, Whippany NJ by calling 212-228-0110 or e-mailing 07981. Tickets are $20; $10 for students November 6-8 UNA General [email protected]. Reservations and seniors. Proceeds from the concert October 9-11 Wedding weekend Assembly are recommended. will benefit the UACCNJ. For tickets or October 16-18 Plast USA (KP November 13-15 Plast Orlykiada more information call 973-895-4868 or Friday, October 16 e-mail [email protected]. Zyizd) NEW YORK: The Ukrainian Institute of November 21-22 Private function Saturday, October 10 America is pleased to present a major solo exhibition by artist Ilona Sochynsky titled October 24 to be announced NEW YORK: The Shevchenko Scientific “Fragments. Fetishes. Capriccios” from November 26 Thanksgiving Society and Americans for Human Rights October 8 through November 1, with an in Ukraine (AHRU) invite all to a presen- artist’s opening reception on Friday, tation of the translation of a part of the October 16, at 6-8 p.m. The exhibit fea- report to the U.S. Congress on the testimo- tures over 25 oil paintings on canvas in nies of eyewitnesses to the Holodomor of varying levels of abstraction. Exhibit hours 1932-1933 before the U.S. Commission on are: Tuesday-Sunday, noon-6 p.m. For the Ukraine Famine, which was active in additional information call 212-288-8660. the years 1986-1988. Participating in the presentation: Bozhena Olshaniwsky, presi- Saturday, October 17 dent of AHRU; Dr. Myron Kuropas, schol- NEW YORK: A book launch of ar, civic leader, publicist and public mem- “Scratches on a Prison Wall: A Wartime ber of the U.S. Commission on the Ukraine Memoir” by Luba Komar-Prokop, trans- Famine; Dr. Leonid Heretz, professor of lated and edited by Christine Prokop, will history, compiler of eyewitness accounts take place at The Ukrainian Museum, 222 of the Holodomor for the commission. The E. Sixth St., New York, NY 10003, at 7 presentation will take place at the society’s p.m. The book will be introduced by Prof. building, 63 Fourth Ave. (between Ninth Alexander Motyl; Christine Prokop will and 10th streets) at 5 p.m. For additional read excerpts from the book. The evening information call 212-254-5130. To book a room or event call: (845) 626-5641, ext. 140 includes a video presentation of the book’s Friday-Sunday, October 9-11 216 Foordmore Road P.O. Box 529 author telling her story and a slideshow of photos and documents. Copies of Kerhonkson, NY 12446 PHILADELPHIA: The Ukrainian League of Philadelphia, located at 800 N. 23rd St., “Scratches on a Prison Wall” will be avail- E-mail: [email protected] able for sale. Admission is free; limited Website: www.Soyuzivka.com will be participating in the POST – Philadelphia Open Studios Tour. The open- seating. RSVP by calling 212-228-0110 or ing reception is Friday evening at 7-9 p.m. sending an email to infor@ukrainianmuse- in the hall, followed by a performance by um.org. the Kruno Spisic Gypsy Jazz Band at 9 p.m. in the lower club. Viewing hours on NEW BRITAIN, Conn.: A Ukrainian Saturday and Sunday are noon-6 p.m. Harvest Festival will take place at 9 a.m.-2 Featured artists: Mykhailo Danylowych, p.m. at St. Mary’s Ukrainian Orthodox Dorian Fedkiw, Andrij Korchynskyj, Lusia Church, 54 Winter St. (behind Newbrite BACK TO SCHOOL Plaza). The event is in celebration of the Oleksyuk. Admission is free. For informa- tion call Ihor, 215-656-8521 (weekdays). church’s 100th anniversary. Featured will be a giant tag sale, Christmas items, a SPECIAL: Sunday, October 11 large collection of costume jewelry, PHILADELPHIA: As a part of the Ukrainian breads, a raffle, cake and dessert “Literature in the Booth” series, the table, as well as a Ukrainian Kitchen with Ukrainian Federation of America in con- Ukrainian foods plus hotdogs and ham- A subscription to The Ukrainian Weekly! junction with the Ukrainian League of burgers. Again available will be the Philadelphia located at 800 N. 23rd St., church’s famous nut rolls. Parking is avail- will be co-sponsoring a presentation and able behind the church. For further infor- Give the college students in your family their own nine-month book signing of a recently published book mation call 860-229-3833 or 860-677-2138. gift subscription to The Ukrainian Weekly. The Weekly is a great “Culture and Customs of Ukraine” by Adriana Helbig, Oksana Buranbaeva and Sunday October 18 resource for students who plan to write college papers on topics Vanja Mladineo. The presentation and HARTFORD, Conn.: The board of direc- about Ukraine, helps students keep in touch with the Ukrainian book-signing will take place in the lower club staring at 3 p.m. Dr. Adriana Helbig tors of the Ukrainian National Home of community throughout the United States and Canada, and gives will discuss the challenges of writing this Hartford invites you and your family to its students the opportunity to keep learning about their Ukrainian her- book and how she and her co-authors Annual Fall Dinner-Concert at 5 p.m. The researched the material for it. Admission is Ukrainian National Home is located at 961 itage once they leave home.The subscription rate for the academic free. For information call Ihor, Wethersfield Ave. The program will year is only $45 ($35 if the student is a member of the UNA). 215-656-8521 (weekdays) include performances by the Yevshan Ukrainian Vocal Ensemble and the Zolotyj Tuesday, October 13 Promin Ukrainian Dance Ensemble, and a To take advantage of this special offer, just fill out the form below NEW YORK: The Ukrainian Studies buffet dinner by Joanna’s Creative Cuisine. For tickets – $25 for adults, $10 for stu- and mail it with a check to: The Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 Route Program at the Harriman Institute, Columbia University invites all to a lecture dents – call the UNHH office, 10, PO Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. Or, phone The Weekly’s titled “Gogol and His Contemporaries: 860-296-5702. Subscription Department at (973) 292-9800, ext. 3042, and charge The Price of Admission to Russian Culture,” to be delivered by Dr. Edyta ALEXANDRIA, Va.: The Washington the subscription to your credit card. Bojanowska (Rutgers University). The Group Sunday Music Series will present lecture will take place at noon in Room Zino Bogachek, violinist with the 1219, International Affairs Building, 420 Washington National Opera, joined by W. 118th St. This event is free and open to musicians from the WNO Orchestra for an STUDENT’S NAME: ______afternoon of classical chamber music fea- NAM E: (please type or print) the public. For more information call 212-854-4697, or write to ukrainianstud- turing romantic and contemporary com- COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: [email protected]. posers, including pieces for violin, cello, viola and piano. The Lyceum is located at Thursday, October 15 201 S. Washington St. The concert begins ADDRESS: ______NEW YORK: A screening of “The at 3 p.m.; seating is unreserved; suggested English Surgeon” (2007, documentary; in donation is $20, free for students. For CITY: ______STATE: ______ZIP CODE: ______Ukrainian and English, with subtitles) with information call 301-229-2615. a personal appearance by Dr. Henry Marsh Wednesday, October 21 PHONE (optional): ______will take place at The Ukrainian Museum at 7 p.m. Filmed in a Ukrainian hospital NEW YORK: The Ukrainian Film Club full of desperate patients and makeshift of Columbia University will hold a view- ❏ ❏ UNA member subscription price — $35/acad.yr. Non-member subscription price — $45/acad.yr. equipment, “The English Surgeon” is an ing and discussion of the new and contro- intimate and uplifting portrait of one man’s versial Russian historical drama “Taras UNA Branch number ______struggle to do good things against formi- Bulba” (2009). Kyiv-born Vladimir Bortko dable odds. This moving and often humor- (Continued on page 22)