INSIDE:• Ukraine’s elections: between the Russian and Belarusian scenarios — page 6. • Hundreds of international observers arrive for the elections — page 8. • Journey to a recovered memory in Volochysk — page 9.

Published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal non-profit association Vol. LXVII HE No.KRAINIAN 44 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1999 EEKLY$1.25/$2 in Ukraine NewT information aboutU attack on Vitrenko Kaniv Four disintegratesW as coalition appears to reveal a surprising conspiracy cannot agree on a single candidate

by Roman Woronowycz an permission to do so. by Roman Woronowycz explained Mr. Tkachenko. “Our plans to Kyiv Press Bureau Mr. Mitrofanov explained that he had Kyiv Press Bureau mobilize the electorate have failed. In this been prepared to have a handwriting analy- situation, there is no sense in continuing to KYIV – The investigation of the October sis done of the note to ascertain its authen- KYIV – Unable to agree on who among pursue our main task.” 2 grenade attack on presidential candidate ticity, but will wait until the same Ukrainian them should be their single presidential can- He drew gasps and shouts from journal- Natalia Vitrenko took on a new dimension officials conduct their own analysis, which didate, the Kaniv Four political alliance dis- ists when he made another unexpected dec- on October 21 when a Russian parliamen- he said would occur after the October 31 integrated on October 26, with each candi- laration: that he had agreed in talks with Mr. tary hearing revealed that Ms. Vitrenko’s presidential elections. date going his own way, and Oleksander Symonenko to withdraw his own candidacy own people might have been involved in The State Security Service of Ukraine Tkachenko announcing that he had aligned in favor of the Communist Party candidate. the conspiracy. issued a statement on October 22, underlin- with Communist candidate Petro Mr. Tkachenko said three members of The hearing was conducted by the State ing that it was determined to find the source Symonenko. the alliance had spent the better part of the Duma Committee on Geopolitics to ascer- of the information leak, but denying that it The alliance twice appeared to have day trying to convince Mr. Moroz to tain the involvement of the two Russian cit- was responsible because it did not immedi- agreed on a single candidate, first endorse Mr. Marchuk and withdraw his izens charged by Ukrainian law enforce- ately receive the case from the state militia. Oleksander Moroz on October 14, and then own candidacy. He specifically blamed the ment officials in the attack, after the mother For her part, Ms. Sokurenko has denied briefly Yevhen Marchuk on October 25, but Socialist Party candidate for the group’s dis- of one of the accused sent a letter to the any involvement in the grenade attack. In a their varying political opinions and strong integration because of his failure to do so. committee asking that it defend his honor fax she sent to the Kyiv newspaper Den, individual ambitions finally caused the “Moroz, without consulting with and dignity. which first published excerpts of the coalition – which was better at projecting a Marchuk, or Oliinyk, or Tkachenko, yester- During the session, the committee’s alleged admission by Mr. Ivanchenko on united front than achieving it – to fall apart. day announced that he was forced to heed chairman, Aleksii Mitrofanov, presented a October 22, Ms. Sokurenko said the docu- The switch to Mr. Marchuk after the the demand of the Politburo of the Socialist copy of what he called the official transcrip- ments in Mr. Mitrofanov’s possession are group seemingly had agreed on Mr. Moroz Party and would continue his candidacy on tion of the initial interrogation of one of the fakes, which the Russian parliamentarian caused some surprise here, but not nearly as his own, thus betraying us,” said Mr. two men arrested, in which the suspect has “without basis called copies of the orig- much as when Mr. Tkachenko, after having Tkachenko allegedly implicates a member of Ms. inal interrogation of Vladimir Ivanchenko.” held journalists at bay for four hours while Mr. Moroz indeed already had stated Vitrenko’s own campaign team in a con- “The examination of this document, the group ostensibly finalized a political that he would continue his candidacy and spiracy to kill the presidential candidate. which as of today has not been authenticat- document formally endorsing their new would not withdraw from the race, but The suspect, Vladimir Ivanchenko, who ed by either Mr. Ivanchenko or investiga- choice, announced at a press conference political experts expected that the Kaniv along with his accomplice, Andrei tors, is nothing more than the most basic of that the alliance was no more. Four would continue in a variation simi- Samoilov, has been charged in the grenade provocations, which I rate as the interfer- “Today we had another round of consul- lar to what occurred with the group’s ini- assault in which more than 33 people were tations, yet we failed to convince Moroz to injured, is said to have told Ukrainian law (Continued on page 8) abide by our preliminary agreement,” (Continued on page 8) enforcement officials that he was offered $3,000, and $2,000 to a partner of his choice, by Natalia Sokurenko, who present- ed herself as a registered official of the Plast begins 50th anniversary celebration during 24th national convention Vitrenko campaign. by Halyna Kuzyszyn-Holubec Approximately 200 Plast members they had much to say about what direc- “She offered me a good amount of Special to The Ukrainian Weekly took part in the 24th national conven- tion Plast is heading in and how they money and said that if I agreed to put tion, including 125 delegates represent- will continue to be involved in the year together a theatrical attack on her boss, KERHONKSON, N.Y. – Fifty years ing the votes of their respective local 2000 and beyond. Natalia Vitrenko, and spend three to five after re-establishing itself on American branches, as well as fraternities and Lesya Richardson, 23, of the Chicago days in a detention cell, I would get soil, the Plast Ukrainian Scouting sororities active within the organization. branch, has been a member of Plast $3,000,” Mr. Ivanchenko is alleged to have Organization – U.S.A., is entering the Many more Plast youths were present told Ukrainian interrogators after his arrest. new millennium by focusing on its at this year’s meeting than in the past; (Continued on page 4) He said that he was assured by Ms. young scouts and growing membership. Sokurenko that after a few days in jail, he At the biennial convention (Krayovyi would be released. Plastovyi Zyizd) of representatives from Mr. Ivanchenko writes further that the U.S. branches of Plast held at Soyuzivka point of the conspiracy, as explained to him, on October 23-24, Plast members – both was to discredit his brother, Serhii, who younger and older – discussed upcoming was a registered representative of the cam- plans for the 50th anniversary celebra- paign team of Oleksander Moroz in Kryvyi tion of the organization’s establishment Rih. in the United States, examined issues The brother disappeared after the attack, many counselors face at camps and and Ukrainian law enforcement officials in weekly meetings, held discussions on conjunction with Interpol began conducting the progress made by the American lead- an international search for him after a cache ership of Plast, and elected new national of arms was discovered at his dacha. They leaders for a two-year term that spans suspect that he is the prime conspirator in the end of one millennium and the the attack on Ms. Vitrenko. beginning of another. Mr. Mitrofanov, who belongs to Delegates also voted to formally Vladimir Zhirinovsky’s Liberal Democratic change the name of their organization Party, did not reveal how he came into pos- from Plast Ukrainian Youth Organization session of the documents, although he sug- to Plast Ukrainian Scouting Organization gested that they were obtained from the – U.S.A. to better reflect the organiza- accused’s lawyer and mother. He said dur- tion’s roots, which go back to 1911 in ing a Kyiv press conference that he wanted Ukraine as the uniquely Ukrainian adap- tation of Scouting for Boys founded in to verify the validity of the documents by Halyna Kuzyszyn-Holubec meeting with Mr. Ivanchenko in Kyiv. 1908 in Great Britain by Robert Baden- However, he said, the Security Service of Powell. Young adult members of Plast perform during the 50th anniversary banquet. Ukraine refused the Russian parliamentari- 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1999 No. 44

ANALYSIS NEWSBRIEFSNEWSBRIEFS EU unveils new approach Tkachenko says his life is threatened Mr. Marchuk was the Ukrainian SSR KGB’s first deputy chairman in 1990 and KYIV – Oleksander Tkachenko said on chief of the Security Service of Ukraine in to eastward enlargement October 25 that a terrorist act is being 1991-1994. (RFE/RL Newsline) by Breffni O’Rourke in terms of democratization and econom- planned against him. “This is not a provoca- tion, and I have reported the names and RFE/RL Newsline ic reform. However, it says that Slovakia Vitrenko wants to freeze foreign debts telephone numbers of terrorists to the does not yet have a fully functioning appropriate bodies,” Interfax quoted Mr. KYIV – Ukraine should declare bank- The European Union on October 13 market mechanism and, in addition, Tkachenko as saying. He added that attack- ruptcy in order to overcome the budget cri- announced a radically new approach to needs to do more to implement policy ers want to assassinate him by planting a sis, stated presidential candidate Natalia the process of enlargement into Central decisions and legislation on administra- bomb near the Verkhovna Rada building or Vitrenko on October 26. According to Ms. and Eastern Europe. At the core of the tion and the judiciary. new strategy is the decision to recom- in his car. The same day, Mr. Tkachenko Vitrenko, the year 2000 budget should be The head of the EU integration section issued a statement to the Ukrainian people passed with an 8 percent deficit, and mend the start of negotiations next year of Slovakia’s Foreign Affairs Ministry, with another six countries: Slovakia, in which he appealed to President Leonid changes to the tax code should be made. Jan Kuderjavy, told RFE/RL that “this Kuchma to withdraw from the presidential Ms. Vitrenko offered to introduce a single Latvia, Lithuania, Romania and Bulgaria, kind of relatively positive evaluation was as well as Malta. elections. “This is the only good deed that income tax, which would save 45 percent badly needed [in Slovakia] and now I [Kuchma] is still able to do for the people. for enterprises, 60 percent for banks and 85 These countries, regarded as the group think everybody can see that the effort of less advanced candidates for member- Then, I think, the elections will be complet- percent for gambling enterprises. Ms. that was employed throughout the whole ship, will therefore join the six so-called ed in the first round, and the millions of Vitrenko added that Ukraine should imme- year, since our [reform] government was first-wave countries – Poland, Hungary, hryvni he is so worried about on television diately cancel all agreements with the established last autumn, is bringing the Czech Republic, Estonia, Slovenia will be spared,” Mr. Tkachenko said. International Monetary Fund and freeze all already its first fruits.” and Cyprus – which have already opened (RFE/RL Newsline) of the country’s foreign debts for three Lithuania, like Slovakia, is not yet negotiations with Brussels. In this way, years. (Eastern Economist) regarded as having a full market econo- Kuchma rejects talk of dirty campaign the union will no longer distinguish my, and in addition is seen as sluggish in Mazepa gets burial 290 years later between first-wave and other candidate KYIV – President Leonid Kuchma on adapting its legislation to fit EU norms. countries. October 25 denounced allegations that his ODESA – Two hundred ninety years Fellow Baltic state Latvia needs to Turkey is now also acknowledged as a re-election campaign is engaged in dirty after his death, the remains of Hetman Ivan devote serious attention to general public formal candidate, but is not yet admitted tricks and pressure on the media, Reuters Mazepa were repatriated from Romania to administration and judicial reform, but to negotiations on the grounds that key reported. “I am leading an honest cam- Ukraine. Mazepa’s re-burial will take place has made good economic progress in the criteria are not yet met. paign,” Mr. Kuchma said in in the former hetman’s capital, the city of last year. Estonia, which is also doing In the new negotiations, each country Dnipropetrovsk, where he was greeted, Baturyn. (Eastern Economist) well economically and is one of the first- will progress toward meeting member- according to the agency, by “thousands of wave countries, needs to ensure that its IHF: withdraw Lukashenka invitation ship requirements at its own individual supporters” on the streets. At the same time, language legislation is implemented in pace, a principle called “differentiation.” President Kuchma noted that “a dirtier cam- PRAGUE – The International Helsinki The new accession strategy bears the such a way as to comply with interna- paign than the one unleashed against me tional standards. Federation for Human Rights on October stamp of the EU’s first commissioner for has never existed in a single country of the 24 said the state of human rights and demo- enlargement, Guenter Verheugen of Turning to Bulgaria and Romania, the world.” (RFE/RL Newsline) report finds that neither country met eco- cratic institutions in Belarus is “worsening Germany. Mr. Verheugen says the strate- Moroz would cooperate with IMF by the day.” The IHF called on the gy is aimed at balancing two potentially nomic criteria. Bulgaria continues to make significant progress and shows sus- Organization for Security and Cooperation conflicting objectives: namely, speed of ODESA – International financial institu- tained effort but started from a very low in Europe to withdraw its invitation to accession and quality of preparation. He tions are ready to cooperate with Ukraine if level. Romania has, at best, stabilized as Belarusian President Alyaksandr says speed is essential because of the a left-wing candidate is elected president, Lukashenka to participate in the upcoming expectations of the candidates, while compared with last year, the report according to Socialist Party leader and pres- argues. In the case of both countries, the OSCE summit in Istanbul. It appealed to quality is vital because the EU does not idential candidate, Oleksander Moroz. He the OSCE to invite Syamyon Sharetski, EU Commission has set conditions want “partial members” but new mem- said he does not intend to stop cooperation chairman of the opposition Supreme Soviet, before membership negotiations can bers with full rights and responsibilities. with the International Monetary Fund if he to represent Belarus at the summit. And it begin. Mr. Verheugen also brought more clar- is elected, because the IMF’s terms for post- urged the OSCE “to review the legitimacy For Bulgaria, those conditions stipu- ity to the vexed question of when new ponement of debts, interest rates and the and constitutionality of the current govern- late that it must continue to make eco- members will be admitted. The report like are much better than those of other ment of Belarus” at the upcoming summit. nomic reform progress and must decide welcomes the fact that some applicants international financial institutions. At the (RFE/RL Newsline) have already set their own target dates by the end of this year on an acceptable same time, Mr. Moroz spoke in favor of “a and says that the EU Commission will closure date for the risky nuclear reactors restriction on preconditions” for coopera- Sharetski appeals to West, Russia at Kozloduy. For Romania, the terms are tion with the IMF, because at present they recommend that the EU summit in PRAGUE – Syamyon Sharetski, exiled that it, too, must make continued eco- “are destroying the Ukrainian economy.” Helsinki in December commit the EU to chairman of the opposition Supreme Soviet nomic progress, and, in view of the large (Eastern Economist) be ready to decide from 2002 about the of Belarus, has sent a letter to U.S. accession of candidates that fulfill the number of orphans in the country, it must implement reform of child-care institu- Nationalists support former KGB chief President Bill Clinton, British Prime necessary criteria. Minister Tony Blair and Russian President Among the individual countries that tions. KYIV – Yaroslava Stetsko, leader of the The deputy head of Romania’s diplo- Boris Yeltsin asking them “to respect the were not included in the first wave, the Congress of Ukrainian Nationalists, said in independence and sovereignty of Belarus,” progress report names Slovakia as having matic mission in Brussels, Viorel Lviv on October 26 that her party will sup- Ardeleanu, told RFE/RL that his country Belapan reported on October 25. Mr. made good progress during the year, both port Yevhen Marchuk’s presidential bid. Sharetski referred to the memorandum on will work hard to meet the conditions so Ms. Stetsko added that this was a difficult that negotiations can begin. He praised security guarantees to Belarus that the Breffni O’Rourke is an RFE/RL corre- decision for her organization, which had spondent based in Prague. (Continued on page 16) been persecuted by the KGB in the past. (Continued on page 18)

FOUNDED 1933 The AN-140 passenger plane: whose baby is it? HE KRAINIAN EEKLY RFE/RL Poland, Belarus and Ukraine Report elder brother, Russia, to the full” regard- TAn English-languageU newspaperW published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., ing the development of the AN-140. a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. PRAGUE – President Leonid Kuchma According to the newspaper, Russia’s Yearly subscription rate: $50; for UNA members — $40. and other officials on October 11 watched budget has almost entirely financed the Periodicals postage paid at Parsippany, NJ 07054 and additional mailing offices. a test flight of a new AN-140 passenger (ISSN — 0273-9348) plane. Mr. Kuchma called the plane a development of the plane, but Ukraine says the plane is solely its own “child” “modern miracle,” while congratulating Also published by the UNA: Svoboda, a Ukrainian-language weekly newspaper the Kyiv-based Antonov Design Bureau because, as Segodnya put it, Russian (annual subscription fee: $50; $40 for UNA members). and the Kharkiv State Aviation Enterprise budget allocations do not give Moscow copyright rights. Russia has the right only The Weekly and Svoboda: UNA: that designed and built the aircraft. Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 The plane can carry 52 passengers or to buy 70 AN-140s from Ukraine ahead of 20 passengers and 3.65 tons of cargo for a other customers, but “Segodnya” argues Postmaster, send address Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz distance of 2,300 kilometers at a maxi- that Russia does not have sufficient funds changes to: Editors: Roman Woronowycz (Kyiv) mum speed of 555 kilometers per hour. It to take advantage of this priority treat- The Ukrainian Weekly Andrij Kudla Wynnyckyj (Toronto) is expected to cost some $7 million. ment. 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280 Irene Jarosewich Demand for the AN-140 is estimated at As regards the copyright for the Parsippany, NJ 07054 Ika Koznarska Casanova 100 aircraft within Ukraine and some 500 plane’s design, they belong solely to in Russia and other post-Soviet states by Ukraine’s Antonov Design Bureau. The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com According to Segodnya, future Russian 2005, according to the Associated Press. The Ukrainian Weekly, OCTOBER 31, 1999, No. 44, Vol. LXVII The Moscow-based Segodnya wrote on customers will have to pay dearly for AN- Copyright © 1999 The Ukrainian Weekly October 13 that Ukraine has “cheated its 140 design charts and schemes. No. 44 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1999 3

UCCA project U.S.-funded program offers Internet training by Roman Woronowycz information, develop Internet-based those who qualify for the program Internet- airs pre-election Kyiv Press Bureau resources, obtain on-line information and wise. And the most direct way is to give create non-commercial Internet networks, people access to computers, which is what KYIV – A U.S. government-funded this advance guard of Internet aficionados is the computer centers will do. announcements Internet training program, which already expected to do more than merely become To ensure that the program continues has established a series of computer access bleary-eyed, achy-wristed computer hacks. to unfold even after U.S. government centers in Ukraine, is now proceeding to its NEW YORK – The Ukrainian The hope is that they will become a cadre of funding for it ceases, the IATP carefully second stage, to give alumni of U.S. techni- Internet proponents who will transfer their chooses the institutions at which it devel- Congress Committee of America cal assistance programs Internet skills. began broadcasting its series of knowledge to others. ops its Internet access centers. These The Internet Access and Training “We have made excellent progress in institutions, whether universities, election-related radio and televi- Program (IATP), sponsored by the Bureau sion public service announce- connecting our alumni, and with our current schools, government centers or hospitals, of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the and future development, we will able to must show that they will be able to con- ments (PSAs) on national and Department of State (formerly the U.S. regional stations throughout hook up even more,” said Mr. Hirniak. tinue the program after the IATP is gone. Information Agency) and administered by Citing the program’s motto, “to build And, most importantly, as Mr. Hirniak Ukraine on October 20. the International Research and Exchange The announcements encourage community networks,” the IATP coordi- explained, “They are institutions where our Board (IREX), will spend about $400,000 nator explained that he hopes that even- alumni are present.” an informed decision at the polls through October 2001 to teach students, tually relations will form with schools, He expects that the alumni will spur and and are part of the UCCAs academics, professionals and businessmen hospitals, and civic and government coordinate the training of new Internet users “Making of a President” civic who have taken part in such U.S.-sponsored organizations, and that the program’s at their workplaces and wherever they are information program being con- programs as the Fulbright Scholar alumni will act as the conduits. involved in the community, and help them ducted prior to the October 31 Exchange Program, the Edmund S. Muskie The IATP is cooperating with govern- develop computer and Internet expertise. presidential elections in Ukraine. Fellowship Program, Curriculum ment bodies as well, to link them to the The IATP soon also hopes to initiate a The announcements were to air Development Exchange Program, information superhighway. It has already distance learning program, a form of off- on Ukrainian National Television International Visitor Program, Community held informational seminars with Ministry campus education increasingly accepted and Ukrainian National Radio, Connections and other programs how to of the Economy and the Ministry of Foreign by Western academics. The program is and regionally on 17 TV and radio use the information superhighway – a skill Affairs. part of the Civic Education Network proj- stations. Inter TV, which broad- the bureau hopes will help foster continued Mr. Hirniak sees the program’s initial ect of IATP-2. The goal is to establish casts nationally, and Kyiv’s Radio information-sharing, network-building and primary goal as Internet and computer train- relations with accredited universities in Continent and Radio Doviria collaboration with U.S. and European ing. “Computer and Internet knowledge in the United States and Europe, and pro- agreed to broadcast the announce- counterparts. Ukraine are not up to par with what the vide computer links that will allow the ments free of charge. In the last few years, thousands of alumni are exposed to in the West,” program’s alumni to receive certification “The response to the PSAs has Ukrainians have taken advantage of U.S. explained Mr. Hirniak. been very positive” said Tamara government technical assistance and and degrees from major Western universi- So, the program’s first priority is to make Gallo, director of the National exchange programs whose aim is to pro- ties via Internet studies. Office of the Ukrainian Congress mote democracy, civil society, and public Committee of America. “Our part- and private sector partnerships through ners in the Freedom of Choice exchanges between the U.S. and Ukraine of Coalition are eager to disseminate businessmen, students, scholars and profes- BUSINESS IN BRIEF them all over the country.” sionals. Freedom of Choice is an The IATP has established model Internet umbrella group for over 200 non- access centers to help these alumni of U.S. Volume of Ukraine’s foreign trade shrinks partisan organizations conducting government programs continue to maintain KYIV – The volume of Ukraine’s foreign trade from January to August shrank by 23.8 programs prior to the presidential a dialogue with their colleagues in the percent to $14.4 billion (U.S.), compared with the same period last year, according to the elections. United States and to further their education- State Statistics Committee. Exports fell by 16.7 percent to $7.2 billion and imports by 29.8 “The Making of a President” al and professional training. The access percent to $7.1 billion. The foreign trade balance was a positive one of $109 million (U.S.). program, which is supported by centers are located at key Ukrainian univer- Imports arrived mostly from Russia, 47.6 percent; Germany, 7.7 percent; Turkmenistan, 6.7 the United States Agency for sities around the country. Currently, the percent; and Belarus, 2.9 percent. The share of mineral fuel, oil and petroleum products in International Development IATP is working to expand to all the major the imports total rose from 39 percent to 44.3 percent, while the share of machinery and (USAID), also featured a “Voter’s regional cities. equipment fell from 11 percent to 8 percent. Ukraine traded with 174 nations and exported Rights” brochure that was distrib- Right now, there are working comput- goods mostly to the following countries: Russia, 19.6 percent of total export volume; uted across the country by the er centers at the National University of China, 7.3 percent; Turkey, 6.18 percent; Germany, 5.2 percent; Italy, 4 percent; and the Committee of Voters of Ukraine. Kyiv-Mohyla Academy and Kharkiv United States, 3.6 percent. The share of crops, including grain, rose form 4.4 percent to 6.3 The brochure explains the role of Polytechnical University – academic percent of Ukraine’s exports, as compared to the same period last year; and the share of the president according to the institutions from which many of the more mineral fuel, oil and petroleum products from 3.7 percent to 6.1 percent. The percentage of Constitution of Ukraine and out- than 5,000 alumni of exchange programs ferrous metal products fell from 5.3 percent to 3.5 percent, machines and equipment from lines the steps Ukrainian voters were chosen. Plans exist for the develop- 6.5 percent to 5.18 percent, and ferrous metals from 34.7 percent to 33.2 percent. The share can take to make an informed ment of more centers in oblast capitals of barter operations in the total volume of Ukrainian exports was 4.3 percent and imports decision at the polls. such as Vinnytsia, Kirovohrad, Odesa, 3.6 percent, as compared with 7.7 percent and 6.5 percent in January-August 1998. (Eastern The UCCA also conducted two Ternopil, Dnipropetrovsk, Donetsk and Economist) focus groups each in Kyiv, Odesa Uzhhorod. Myron Hirniak, IATP regional coordina- and Kharkiv during the week of Kuchma witnesses AN-140 test flight September 13 to gauge voter sen- tor for Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine, said timent and fine-tune the various that in the first stage the object was to KHARKIV – Testing of the first serial production AN-140 plane took place in Kharkiv components of the “Making of a establish the Internet access sites and the on October 11. This plane was created to replace the AN-24 and YAK-40 on internal medi- infrastructure. Now it was on to the devel- President” program. Preliminary um-range transportation lines. According to President Leonid Kuchma, who was present at opment of “a dynamic mix of training and analysis indicates that, despite the test flight, over 1,000 such planes are currently needed. (Eastern Economist) community outreach,” explained Mr. participants’ frustration with the Hirniak. failure of politicians to address the 1999 Ukrainian wine production up 15 percent At the centers, alumni will be able to fur- needs of the people, interest in the ther develop their professional and academ- KYIV – Export of Ukrainian grape wine has risen 15 percent since the beginning of upcoming election is keen. While ic skills, whether in business, law, medicine 1999 and totaled 101,000 decaliters, although exports of champagne wines fell 15 percent. most participants reported that or any of the other myriad specializations Ukraine produces 240 kinds of grape wines, with an average of 16 to 18 liters of wine per they had not made up their minds accented in the government technical assis- capita. (Eastern Economist) for whom to vote, almost all said tance programs. they would go to the polls on “The point is not just to maintain con- U.S. firm to help open vehicle paint shop October 31. tacts with the people they met in the United SYMFEROPOL – KrymAvtoGaz, a subsidiary of GAZ recently signed a contract for The Ukrainian Congress States, it is to take the knowledge they have $15 million (U.S.) with the U.S. firm Haden to produce and fit the equipment necessary for Committee of America is a not- developed to the next phase,” said Mr. for-profit community-based Hirniak. the construction of paint shop for cars. KrymAvtoGaz assembles Volga cars, Sobol organization that has raised The centers give access to the Internet minibuses and Gazel light-weight trucks from parts, including car bodies, constructed by awareness about Ukraine and has via the computers housed in the facility, GAZ in Nizhnii Novgorod. Some 40 percent of car bodies the plant receives require represented the interests of the which in itself is a tremendous service in a repainting after they are transported from Russia. (Eastern Economist) Ukrainian American community country where home-based computers still for almost 60 years. Up-to-date are considered a unique luxury. In addition, Russia pressures Ukraine on Iranian N plant election information is available the sites offer their alumni specialized KYIV – According to a source at the presidential administration, Ukraine is facing on the UCCA’s website, training workshops though the Internet, as Since 1992, USAID has pro- Russian pressure to reconsider its decision not to participate in the construction of the well as seminars and roundtables on vari- Bushehr nuclear power station in Iran after Russia expressed its readiness to place orders vided over $1.4 billion worth of ous topics, including course material avail- technical and humanitarian assis- with Ukrainian enterprises for the manufacture of equipment to be installed in India. The able on CD-Rom, as well as video confer- only condition is that Ukraine take part in the Bushehr project. In March 1998, Ukraine tance in support of Ukraine’s encing. democratic, economic and social yielded to U.S. pressure and withdrew from the project as the United States believed that Although the IATP’s goal is to “pro- the project could help Iran to obtain materials for the manufacture of nuclear bombs. In transition. duce” Internet users in Ukraine who will use the information network to publish (Continued on page 12) 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1999 No. 44

Command (“Bulava”) Liudmyla Plast begins 50th... Darmohraj; the head of the World Plast (Continued from page 1) Council Orest Hawryluk; and many others. since childhood, but this was her first Awards and commemorative pins were experience attending the youth organiza- presented by the National Plast Command tion’s national convention. “Being exposed to the Ukrainian National Association and to the procedure and policy at the meeting to the Ukrainian National Credit Union and seeing the representation from the dif- Association, represented by Yaroslav ferent cities where Plast exists helps take Fedun, for their invaluable support ideas back to the branches for implementa- throughout Plast’s 50 years in America. tion,” she said. Beyond the friendships and A screening of the 50th anniversary film travels Ms. Richardson has experienced “Nezminne Oblychchia Plastu” (The through membership in Plast, she under- Never-Changing Face of Plast), produced lined that what is most beneficial is being by Volodymyr Artymyshyn, and the tradi- able to get together and pass on Ukrainian tional goodnight circle marked the end of traditions and experience the closeness of the evening’s festivities. the “Plast family.” U.S. Plast’s 50th anniversary commit- Although at different occasions tee, headed by Halyna Kutko, has been throughout the weekend there were discus- working diligently to prepare various sions on Plast in Ukraine, the organiza- events associated with the anniversary, tion’s leaders formed focus groups whose which will culminate in August 2000, dur- ing the Plast Jamboree in the Lake Placid primary goals were to examine the struc- Halyna Kuzyszyn-Holubec tural, financial and educational directives region of the Adirondack Mountains of of the organization and how Plast can con- New York and continue into October 2001. Selling shirts marking the 50th anniversary of Plast in the United States are: tinue to be an active component of the A special recording of Plast songs com- (from left) Taras Ferencevych, Mykola Konrad and Lesia Lopatynsky. Ukrainian American community. missioned by the committee is set to be Plast Command who retained their posi- wife agreed, adding that she hopes Plast Saturday’s meetings revolved mostly released next month. Other anniversary tions include: Roman Zavadovych as will be able to continue into the future. around reports from key leaders, discus- activities include a 200-page photo album deputy assistant and head of the organiza- “I’m worried that it (Plast) won’t exist,” sions on various activities of the National and a play written by Zenon Chaikivsky, tional sector; Stefan Peleschuk, financial she continued, “because of the lack of Plast Command and separate meetings of directed by Lydia Kryshelnytsky and being director; Olia Stasiuk, general secretary; time, commitment and interest that it takes focus groups that met before the evening’s prepared for an April 9, 2000, premiere. The Ivanna Gorchynska, corresponding secre- to make this an operable organization.” anniversary banquet. committee will also present awards to key tary; Katrusia Harasevych, director for Kalyna Procyk, 23, of Chicago is a Plast The banquet, which served as the kick- Plast members, who through their excep- seniors; Ihor Mykyta, camps director; youth counselor and member of the Ti off to the yearlong celebration of the 50th tional work and effort built the 50-year Lubomyr Domashevskyj, sports director. Scho Hrebli Rvut sorority. “I find that anniversary of Plast, was organized by foundation of Plast in the United States. Zenon Holubec was elected to head the Plast membership is a very valuable way Zenia Brozyna and Oksana Korduba, with Plans for organization’s growth National Plast Council. of participating in the Ukrainian communi- decorations courtesy of the Plast’s New additions to the 1999-2001 Plast ty,” Ms. Procyk said, adding that the Chortopolokhy sorority. In addition to sev- Borys Pawluk, elected to a second term leadership include: Marta Remeniuk-Hapij organization helps build leadership capa- eral skits performed by Plast youths, inter- at this year’s convention as head of the as recorder; Tamara Hankewycz, director bilities, thereby enabling members to influ- twined with readings related to various U.S. National Plast Command, said that, for “novatstvo”; Marko Matla, director for ence the direction of future members. In stages of the organization’s history in through better communication and net- “novatstvo” counselor training; Marta addition to the above-mentioned reasons America, there were commemorative working, the Plast leadership council plans Kuzmowycz, director for “yunatstvo”; for being enthusiastic about Plast, she said speeches from key members of the to expand the organization to better serve George Kuzmowycz, director for “yunatst- she enjoys outdoor activities associated Ukrainian community. the Ukrainian American community. vo” counselor training; Mykola Konrad, with scouting, such as hiking, camping and An eloquent and moving memoir read “The benefit of belonging to Plast is director for “starshe platunstvo”; Roman rock climbing. by one of the most revered members of that it helps you build a strong character, as Juzeniw, press secretary; Markian Lisovi Chorty fraternity leader Nick Plast, Olha Kuzmowycz, reminded every- well as communication and leadership Hawryluk, counseling director Sawicki, 25, of New York, said he is grate- one of the many people who put their skills with people of your own heritage,” (“vychovnyi referent”); Yuriy Slusarchuk, ful for the opportunity to interact with hearts and souls into continuing the Plast Mr. Pawluk said. The leadership elected to leadership training director; and Ihor youths as their counselor – a benefit that scouting tradition in the United States. serve the organization in 1997 formed a Makarenko, operations and financial man- Plast membership has given him through- Christina Jancew, national sports direc- plan that included the goals of building ager. out the last couple of years. “At the most tor and official representative for the membership, reaching out to those who Helping Plast flourish basic level I am continuing to be a part of Ukrainian American Youth Association were once part of the organization and Plast because it’s a tradition passed on to (SUM), fondly reminisced about the close- establishing an endowment fund. Adam Hapij and Marta Remeniuk- me by my family,” Mr. Sawicki said, knit relations between Plast and SUM in “In the past two years,” Mr. Pawluk Hapij of New York City, are one of the reflecting on some of his experiences with Passaic, N.J., where she grew up. observed, “we have seen good member- many Ukrainian married couples who met Plast youths on hikes or at camps, that Other representatives who spoke at the ship growth in the ‘ptashata’ (age 4-6) and through membership in Plast. Throughout serve as a great getaway for him from the banquet included Archbishop Stephen the ‘novatstvo’ (age 7-11) ranks, and with the years they have been active in various pressures of everyday life. Sulyk of Philadelphia, metropolitan for continued emphasis on our programs capacities within the organization and Philadelphia native Markian Hawryluk, Ukrainian Catholics in the United States; through the 50th anniversary celebration strive to help Plast flourish, so that their a member of the Vovkulaky Plast fraternity Ukrainian American Coordinating Council we should attract even more members.” children may someday reap the benefits and head of the “vykhovnyi sektor” (coun- representative Roman Baranowsky; Mr. Pawluk stated that he also believes they themselves have attained as “plas- seling branch) of U.S. Plast, took part in Ukrainian Congress Committee of Plast will spread to new cities, such as tuny.” the biennial congress at Soyuzivka because America representative Michael Sawkiw Houston, Phoenix, Portland, Miami, “Since early adolescence,” said Mr. he said “the policy that’s decided here has Jr.; Ukrainian National Association Atlanta and others where Ukrainians now Hapij, “I have been exposed to an organi- a direct impact on the scouts.” Mr. President Ulana Diachuk; Plast Chaplain reside, and that scouting programs will zation that has a stable and solid frame- Hawryluk also said he feels the meeting the Rev. Ivan Kaszczak; Chief Scout include more specialty camps and activi- work, and that consistently upholds leader- serves as an excellent social opportunity (“Nachalnyi Plastun”) Lubomyr ties with Plast members in other countries. ship skills and values that I strongly sup- Romankiw; the head of the World Plast Members of the 1997-1999 National port and implement in my own life.” His (Continued on page 13)

Members of the Chornomortsi Plast fraternity gathered at the convention. Lisovi Mavky sorority members take a break from one of the sessions. No. 44 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1999 5 THE UKRAINIAN NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FORUM

Sales of Christmas cards to benefit Soyuzivka, UNA educational programs by Oksana Trytjak acknowledged for their support and con- UNA Special Projects Coordinator tribution: Bohdan Borzemsky, Teaneck, N.J.; Maria Harasowska-Daczyszyn, PARSIPPANY, N.J. – For the last Chicago; Tania Gajecky, Lakewood, Christmas of this millennium and the Colo.; Oleksander Kaniuka, Minneapolis; first one of the new millennium, depend- Zenowia Kulynych, Jackson Heights, ing on whether you celebrate according N.Y.; Vitaliy Lytvyn, Toronto, Ontario; to the Gregorian or the Julian calendar, Luba Maksymchuk, Kyiv; Roman the UNA has published another series of Markovych, Stamford, Conn.; Lydia Christmas cards. Community support of Palij, Toronto, Ontario; Orest Poliszczuk, the UNA’s Christmas card project last Ellicott City, Md.; Jaroslav Stadnyk, year was overwhelming, and with contin- Maplewood, N.J.; Olena Stasiuk, Lviv; ued support this year, the results, we Irene Twerdochlib, Rochester, N.Y.; hope, will be just as favorable. Yurij Viktiuk, Lviv. This year the UNA has released a By purchasing and using these cards, series of 14 Christmas greeting cards. community members are supporting the The cost of each packet will be $15. UNA, Soyuzivka and its youth-oriented Proceeds are designated to support edu- programs. They are also helping pro- cational, cultural and youth-oriented mote Ukrainian traditions, encouraging programs at Soyuzivka. Ukrainian artists both at home and The UNA has a long history of pro- abroad, and at the same time spreading moting Ukrainian artists of many gen- the joyous spirit of Christmas. res. Over the last few years, many The cards will be mailed to Svoboda prominent Ukrainian artists from the and The Ukrainian Weekly subscribers United States, Canada and Ukraine have prior to Thanksgiving. For further contribute their works to the UNA’s information call the UNA’s special Ukrainian Christmas card project. projects coordinator, (973) 292-9800, This year the following artists are ext. 3071.

Six of the 14 Christmas cards published for 1999-2000 by the Ukrainian Young UNA’ers National Association: (top row, from left) “Christmas Carolers” by Oleksander Kaniuka of Minneapolis; “Mary and Child” by Roman Markovych of Stamford, Conn.; “Hutsul Blessed Virgin with Jesus” by Bohdan Borzemsky of Teaneck, N.J.; “Christmas Carol” by Maria Harasowska-Daczyszyn of Chicago; “Carolers” by Jaroslav Stadnyk of Maplewood, N.J.; and “Christmas Eve, Church of St. Simeon in Sushno-Ukraine” by Irene Twerdochlib of Rochester, N.Y.

RECORDING DEPARTMENT MEMBERSHIP REPORT – AUGUST 1999 Martha Lysko, National Secretary

Juvenile Adult ADD Total Total Active Members – 7/99 7,891 17,158 4,292 29,341 Total Inactive Members – 7/99 7,232 17,619 0 24,851 Total Members – 7/99 15,123 34,777 4,292 54,192

ACTIVE MEMBERSHIP

Gains in 8/99 Alexa Tatiana Czartorysky, daughter of New members 18 22 0 40 Dr. Bohdan Czartorysky and Dr. New members UL 0 0 0 0 Ariadna Nychka-Czartorysky, is a new Julian Alexander Korduba, son of Reinstated 5 9 3 17 member of UNA Branch 269 in Exton, Roman and Elizabeth D. Korduba, is a Total Gains: 23 31 3 57 Pa. Alexa was enrolled by her great- new member of UNA Branch 234 in Losses in 8/99 grandparents Dr. Aleksander and Elizabeth, N.J. He was enrolled by his Sophie Sokolyszyn. godfather, Mark Pogoda. Died 1 39 0 40 Cash surrender 7 27 0 34 Endowment matured 18 18 0 36 Fully paid-up 11 36 0 47 Reduced paid-up 0 0 0 0 Extended Insurance 1 7 0 8 Certificates lapsed (active) 3 8 17 28 Certificate terminated 3 2 3 8 Total Losses 44 137 20 201 Total Active Members - 8/99 7,870 17,052 4,275 29,197

INACTIVE MEMBERSHIP

Gaines in 8/99 Paid-up 11 36 0 47 Reduced paid up 0 0 0 0 Extended insurance 1 7 0 8 Total Gains 12 43 0 55 Losses in 8/99 * Died 0 44 0 44 * Cash surrender 11 21 0 32 Pure endowment matured 1 2 0 3 Reinstated to active 5 9 0 14 Certificates lapsed (inactive) 0 0 0 0 Matthew N. Matejko, son of Dr. Andrij Dmytro Shevchenko, son of Andrij and Halia Matejko of Sudbury, and Anna Shevchenko of Randolph, Total Losses 17 76 0 93 Total Inactive Members – 8/99 7,227 17,586 0 24,813 Ontario, is a new member of UNA N.J., is a new member of UNA Branch Branch 362 in Levittown, Pa. He was 234 in Elizabeth, N.J. He was enrolled TOTAL MEMBERSHIP - 8/99 15,097 34,638 4,275 54,010 enrolled by his grandparents Fedir by his grandparents Oleksiy and Luba (* Paid up and reduced paid up policies) and Maria Petryk. Shevchenko. 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1999 No. 44

ELECTION ANALYSIS THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY A remembrance and a memorial Between the Russian and Belarusian scenarios by Jan Maksymiuk Of the front-runners, Mr. Symonenko, Last year our community and Ukrainians around the world marked the 65th RFE/RL Newsline the uncharismatic leader of the Communist anniversary of the Great Famine of 1932-1933 in Ukraine, which killed at least 7 mil- Party, appears the rival against whom Mr. lion of our brothers and sisters. The Famine was not a natural disaster, but an atrocity Regardless of who wins this year’s presi- Kuchma would prefer to compete on orchestrated by Stalin and his henchmen to destroy a nation using the most heinous of dential elections in Ukraine, no one should November 14. Many analysts argue that in methods: food as a weapon. Major commemorations of this tragic anniversary were expect the country’s dire economic situation such a case, Mr. Kuchma’s election team held in Ottawa, Toronto, Montreal and Winnipeg in Canada, and in Washington, to improve soon. That, at present, is the could successfully apply Boris Yeltsin’s Chicago and New York in the United States, as well as in other cities. There were only certainty with regard to Ukraine at the campaign tactics of 1995, when the Russian observances also in Ukraine, where President Leonid Kuchma issued a decree pro- present time. president faced Communist Gennadii claiming a National Day of Remembrance of Famine Victims. Ukraine’s foreign debt stands at $12 bil- Zyuganov in the run off and, with the con- More than 4,500 Ukrainian Americans of metropolitan New York last year com- lion, of which $3.1 billion is due to be paid certed help of the Russian electronic media, memorated the anniversary of the Great Famine with a requiem service at St. next year, while reserves of The National effectively instilled the fear of a “red Patrick’s Cathedral on November 8, which was designated as “Ukrainian Famine Bank of Ukraine total $1.3 billion. Thus, the revenge” into the electorate. Those analysts Day of Remembrance” throughout the United States. This year, the Great Famine is country is facing a default on its foreign assert that Mr. Kuchma could successfully debt. to be remembered on November 20 with a solemn procession from the Ukrainian use the same strategy against Mr. Meanwhile, the government’s domestic section of Lower Manhattan to St. Patrick’s, where a memorial service is to be jointly Symonenko. They also point out that Mr. debt, in unpaid wages, pensions, and social offered by hierarchs of the Ukrainian Catholic and Ukrainian Orthodox Churches. Kuchma’s campaign is already closely fol- benefits, totals 10 billion ($2.5 U.S. billion). Some have asked: Why is the Ukrainian American community marking the 66th lowing the “Russian scenario”: the Some 80 percent of the population lives anniversary of the Great Famine (since it is not a “big anniversary” – a “kruhla rich- Ukrainian incumbent, like his Russian below the poverty line, and real unemploy- nytsia”) and planning to march in a solemn procession on the streets of Manhattan? counterpart four years ago, is employing the ment stands at 25 percent. Some 17 percent The immediate answer is to focus attention on the most glaringly ignored genocide of services of a host of pop stars and celebri- of Ukraine’s labor force is occupied in the the century now coming to an end. While others may look ahead to the next century, ties to promote him in the provinces. shadow economy, which accounts for more we Ukrainians must remember that the 20th century was one of the worst for the Mr. Kuchma’s potential duel with the than 50 percent of the country’s economic Ukrainian nation. leader of the Progressive Socialist Party, activity. Corruption is pervasive. And one- Volodymyr Kurylo, who chairs the Civic Committee to Remember Victims of the Ms. Vitrenko, would be more difficult and Famine in Ukraine (organized to plan the solemn procession), notes: “In this age of third of the population wants to leave the country because of economic woes. its outcome less easy to predict. That sce- apologies, when many are offering century-ending apologies for wrongs committed nario could be called the “Belarusian” one during the 20th century, the most glaring omission is the Famine of 1932-1933.” Even if these data – taken from the newspaper Den, which supports Yevhen because of Ms. Vitrenko’s extremely pop- Indeed, even today there are Famine-deniers, insidious and perfidious, who contin- ulist election ticket, which strongly recalls ue to spread Stalin-era propaganda that there was no famine, that if some people died Marchuk’s presidential bid and is very hos- Alyaksandr Lukashenka’s in the 1994 of hunger that was the price that had to be paid for “modernization” of the USSR, that tile to incumbent President Leonid Kuchma Belarusian presidential vote. The October 2 the famine is a fiction created by Ukrainian nationalist fascist sympathizers hell-bent – are exaggerated, the true picture of attempt on Ms. Vitrenko’s life has most on defaming the Soviet system. Ukraine’s socio-economic condition is likely boosted her surprisingly high popu- Can we ignore such lies? Can we allow them to be unchallenged? unlikely to be much rosier. larity. Or, as Mr. Kurylo asks: “Can we greet the new millennium with a clear conscience All observers of the Ukrainian political The unpredictability of a possible Ms. if we have not memorialized once more the victims of the Famine, if we have not illu- scene agree that none of the presidential Vitrenko challenge to Mr. Kuchma lies in minated the darkness of the 20th century with the truth about this genocide carried out hopefuls will obtain more than 50 percent the fact that her electorate cannot be defined on Stalin’s command?” of the vote on October 31, meaning there in terms of its social or economic status. Last year, at a memorial program at Kyiv National Philharmonic Hall, Vice Prime will be a runoff on November 14. Ms. Vitrenko’s populism finds its appeal Minister Valerii Smolii observed: “Ukrainians abroad consistently rang the bell. ... Observers also tend to agree that Mr. They put together titanic efforts so that all would realize: the Famine of 1933 stands Kuchma will be one of the two participants among different social layers of the on the level of the Armenian Genocide of 1915 and the Jewish Holocaust.” in that second round. However, it is any- Ukrainian population, whose only common Today we still need to tell the world about our nation’s greatest tragedy. Perhaps we body’s guess who the incumbent will be denominator may be disappointment with running against. Ms. Kuchma’s rule. It is easy to make mis- also need to commemorate the Great Famine as much for ourselves,Ç¥˜Ì‡ ªÏ so ԇϒflÚ¸. that we collec- tively can remember and mourn the innocents of 1932-1933. Ukrainian opinion polls suggest that the takes in trying to neutralize the populist most likely candidates to reach the runoff appeal in the post-Soviet area, as the case of with Mr. Kuchma are Natalia Vitrenko, Belarus five years ago amply demonstrated. Petro Symonenko, Oleksander Moroz or Many would argue that Socialist Party October Yevhen Marchuk. However, many hope- leader’s possible runoff could be the worst Turning the pages back... fuls, as well as political analysts, have scenario for Mr. Kuchma. Despite his fierce repeatedly cast doubt on the objectivity of and not always fair criticism of the incum- polls in Ukraine, claiming they are biased. bent, Mr. Moroz is seen as a moderate left- 31 ist and, in contrast to Mr. Symonenko, a likeable one. In the second round, Mr. 1965 Fourteen years ago on this date, the first conference of Jan Maksymiuk is the Belarus, Moroz might be able to enlist the support of Ukrainian journalists concluded at Soyuzivka, the upstate New Ukraine and Poland specialist on the York resort of the Ukrainian National Association. More than 100 staff of RFE/RL Newsline. (Continued on page 12) Ukrainian journalists, editors, reporters and free-lance writers from across the United States and Canada gathered over the weekend of October 29-31 to attend that milestone gathering of the Ukrainian working press. The conference was convened on the initiative of the Association of Ukrainian Solemn procession and requiem service Journalists in America in cooperation with a similar body headquartered in Toronto. Conference participants spent two days in debate and deliberation on the problems con- fronting the Ukrainian press in the free world, with a view toward preparing the ground- to recall Great Famine’s 7 million victims work for an organization that would embrace all Ukrainian journalists on this continent. NEW YORK – The Civic Committee will take time to memorialize the mil- The Weekly reported the following: to Remember the Victims of the Famine ions of victims of the Great Famine, vic- “In a declaration of principles, adopted unanimously by all registered delegates, the con- in Ukraine, formed under the aegis of tims who were starved to death by Stalin ference called for the establishment of a uniform code of ethics and working principles to major New York metropolitan area for the crime of being Ukrainian,” said serve as a guide for all members of the Ukrainian free press. The declaration also specifies Ukrainian American organizations, will Mr. Kurylo. that the second conference is to be held next year in Toronto, at which time a federation of hold a solemn procession and requiem The starting points for the solemn Ukrainian journalistic organizations should come into being. service on Saturday, November 20, to procession will be St. George Ukrainian “The conference was opened by Ivan Kedryn-Rudnytsky, president of the Association of pay tribute to the 7 million victims of the Catholic Church on East Seventh Ukrainian Journalists in America, who read the proposed agenda for the two-day session. Great Famine, a genocide perpetrated by Street, between Second and Third The conference’s presidium was elected as follows: Mr. Kedryn-Rudnytsky, chairman, the Kremlin in Ukraine. avenues, and All Saints Ukrainian Michael Sosnowsky and Natalie Kohusky, vice-chairmen, Roman Kryshtalsky and Stephen The solemn procession, the first Orthodox Church on East 11th Street, Rosocha, secretaries. through the streets of New York in many between Second and Third avenues. “Wasyl Sofroniw-Levytsky, editor of the New Way Ukrainian weekly published in years, will also be the community’s last Participants are asked to gather at 10 Winnipeg, was the first of three speakers who addressed the gathering in the course of chance this century to remind the world a.m. at either location. The procession Saturday’s session. [He] reviewed the state of the Ukrainian press in the United States and of the Great Famine in Ukraine, will proceed uptown to St. Patrick’s Canada, describing in general terms each of the existing publications, their volume, circula- remarked Volodymyr Kurylo, chairman Cathedral, located at Fifth Avenue and tion and other basic characteristics. ... [and] presented his conclusions in the form of six of the Civic Committee, which was 51st Street. The requiem service at the proposals which were later incorporated in the declaration of principles formed by the Ukrainian Congress cathederal will begin at 1 p.m. “Mstyslav Dolnycky, editor of America, discussed the problems of the Ukrainian Committee of America and the Ukrainian Archbishop Antony of the English-language publications ... [and] criticized what he said was at best an attitude of American Coordinating Council. Ukrainian Orthodox Church and indifference displayed by the publishers and the Ukrainian-language papers toward their “We’ve invited Ukrainian Americans Bishop Basil Losten of the Ukrainian English-language counterparts. Badly understaffed – usually limited to one man – these from the tri-state area to attend this Catholic Church will concelebrate and newspapers cannot develop, said Mr. Dolnycky, unless their staffs are enlarged to include solemn and mournful event. We antici- New York’s Dumka Chorus, under the more correspondents and contributors trained in the art of journalism. He also criticized pate that community members from direction of Vasyl Hrechynsky, will New York, New Jersey and Connecticut sing the responses. (Continued on page 13) No. 44 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1999 7

Holocaust education is supported Faces and Places by Ukrainian Canadian community by Myron B. Kuropas TORONTO – In recognition of Mr Petelycky (Auschwitz No. Holocaust Memorial Week, October 28- 154922), “wants to make sure that future November 9 and in response to the man- generations recognize the evil that date by the Ministry of Education that brought about this great European Grade 10 students study the Holocaust, tragedy as well as hallowing the memory Ontario’s Ukrainian community has of the millions made victims of Nazi and Where is our hetman, now that we need him? unveiled a new educational project to Soviet dictatorships in this century,” Mr. By the time some of you read this, company to be trained by American offi- assist students in Ontario’s Public and Halchuk added. Ukraine will have held another presidential cers. Similar companies were formed in Separate school systems to understand In a related development, the election. Not that it matters. Regardless of Detroit and Cleveland, and three airplanes the Holocaust. Ukrainian Canadian Civil Liberties who wins, very little will change in Ukraine were purchased to train a Ukrainian air The Ontario Provincial Council of the Association has initiated a new educa- because the president has little power. force. It was all a very serious business until Ukrainian Canadian Congress has donat- tional project to provide Canadian media According to the 1996 Constitution, the the FBI, acting in response to the “con- ed copies of the authoritative and com- with accurate information about the cata- prime minister has the authority to appoint cerns” of the Soviet ambassador, became pelling narrative by Ukrainian nationalist strophic impact of both the Soviet and ministers and heads of local state adminis- involved. and Holocaust survivor Stefan Petelycky, Nazi regimes in Ukraine during this cen- trations. That’s why President Kuchma has Sich also published a weekly newspaper, to selected schools across the province. tury. fired any prime minister who became a lit- Sichovi Visti (later Sich), which provided Titled “Into Auschwitz, For Ukraine” Launched this week to coincide with tle too ambitious. many thought-provoking articles for its (Kashtan Press, 1999, ISBN# 1-896354- Holocaust Memorial Week. The project By most measures, but especially eco- readership. On January 15, 1928, for exam- 16-5), this book details the movement entails distributing complimentary copies nomically, Ukraine today is a mess. How ple, the periodical explained why and armed struggle for Ukraine’s free- of “Into Auschwitz, For Ukraine,” can people trust a government which has Ukrainians needed Sich and a hetman to dom and the sacrifices made by the many Describing this new effort, the chairman failed (if it ever really tried) to corral cor- lead them: “An organization is created hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians who of UCCLA, John Gregorovich, said: ruption? Some Ukrainians are pining for a when the people know what they want – fought against both Nazi and Soviet “For many years we have noticed how Pinochet to save Ukraine. They would like that means, when they have one idea. We tyranny. uninformed or partial some commenta- to see some Communists “disappear.” A did not have strength or a nation until now Commenting on this educational effort tors in the media have been when dealing better choice would be a Lee Kuan Yew, the because we did not have one idea. There the president of the UCC’s Ontario with the Ukrainian experience during the former president of Singapore who trans- was only a cry: ‘we want Ukraine.’ But Provincial Council, Walter Halchuk, second world war. More often than not formed the city-state into one of the most each person who made that cry wanted a noted: “Few Canadians are aware of the Ukrainians have been portrayed as vil- prosperous, safest, cleanest, crime- and different Ukraine. Every editor and every fact that Ukraine lost more of its popula- lains rather than as the victims that they drug-free nations in the world. American newspaper, every meeting, wanted some- tion than any other country in Nazi-occu- truly were. liberals didn’t like him but, hey, his people thing different, but no one knew what they pied Europe. Millions were enslaved or By sending this book out to editors, did. wanted.” (I ask you, has anything charged perished in the Nazi death mills.” educators, and our elected officials, we If neither of these models are possible in the past 70 years?) “This account, by a Ukrainian hope to undo the great damage done by for Ukraine, how about a hetman, the kind The editorial continued: “In order to Holocaust survivor, who was impris- decades of Soviet-inspired propaganda, visualized by Viacheslav Lypynsky, back eliminate once and for all the fighting oned not only in the notorious whose exponents attempted to besmirch during the 1920s. His major premise fol- among our ‘leaders,’ where each believes Auschwitz concentration camp but in the good name of the Ukrainian libera- lowing modern Ukraine’s first failed that only he is capable of being the ‘head’ of Mathausen and Ebensee as well, brings tion movement by portraying it as a attempt at statehood was that Ukrainians the people – condemning and defaming all an inclusive perspective to the study of handmaiden of the Nazis.” had been ethnonationally unprepared for others – Sich in America ... has said: ‘Over the Holocaust, reminding us of the mil- Mr. Gregorovich also commented that statehood, especially the peasants of eastern all parties and leaders there must be one – lions of non-Jews who suffered and died Mr. Petelycky’s perspective is inclusive: Ukraine. the hetman.’ ” alongside the millions of Jews targeted “He hallows all of the victims of the Lypynsky’s vision of a future Ukrainian The idea of a constitutional monarchy by the Nazis for destruction,” Mr. Holocaust, Jews and non-Jews alike, state was cased on what he called a “classo- for Ukraine is not as weird as it may sound Halchuk said. and is repulsed by those who still cratic” society wherein all productive class- at first blush, especially in Europe; England, Mr. Petelycky’s story is available in attempt to stigmatize entire nations as es – laboring, technical, academic – would Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Monte English, with French and Ukrainian villainous. We recommend this book to have roles to play under the benevolent Carlo seem to do quite well with such gov- abstracts, making it accessible to a broad the public and we hope that those who guidance of a hereditary hetman who would ernments. And it was King Juan Carlos who readership. The author has also agreed to read it will come to better understand be a kind of philosopher-king, a person transformed Franco’s authoritarian regime allow teachers in public and separate just how much Ukrainians sacrificed to above party and class interests. Lypynsky into Spain’s first stable democracy. Today schools photocopy rights for educational ensure that Ukraine would one day rejected republican forms of governments, there is talk of Crown Prince Alexander of purposes. become free.” and characterized socialist democracies as Yugoslavia taking charge and healing the “mobocracies” ruled by “nomadic barbar- ethnic divisions which plague that unfortu- LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ians united by some kind of primitive fanat- nate nation. The prince even has his own ical faith and a primitive morality” based on dynastic website (www.RoyalFamily.org). “the rule of the fist” and “the authority of Until Ukraine gets a benevolent hetman, fear.” or an effective president, the people are His model for Ukraine was Great stuck with what they have: a slate of candi- About that decree Thanks for sustaining Britain, which, he wrote, is not an “oli- dates, most of whom appear to be debased, garchichal classless military bureaucracy mendacious mediocrities eager to dip their purportedly issued... a good newspaper that constantly stands guard over the snouts into the national trough. Dear Editor: Dear Editor: nation”; nor is it a “magical democracy” In the meantime, tired, haggard and anx- that does not recognize classes. England, he Regarding President Leonid Just last week I sent a letter to you com- ious Ukrainians are lining up in front of the believed, enjoys class cooperation because American, Canadian, German, South Kuchma’s edict on languages and the mending you and your staff for your efforts the right of the productive classes to partici- Ukrainian World Congress’s appeal to to sustain a good newspaper. Unfortunately African, Australian, Argentina and Brazilian pate in the economic life of the nation is embassies beginning at 6 a.m., hoping to the president published in The Ukrainian I did not have the information that I needed recognized along with the moral authority Weekly, (August 22). I have made exten- to send a check supporting The Ukrainian emigrate. that resides with the aristocracy within each A Canadian friend of mine living in sive enquiries in Kyiv among those who Weekly to back up my commendation. class. follow Ukrainian legislation. They state I assume you folks are truly dedicated to Ukraine wrote recently that it takes five Initially a supporter of Ukraine’s last het- seals from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that President Kuchma did not issue any the cause of the paper and are making a man, Pavlo Skoropadsky, Lypynsky broke and Ministry of Justice to certify one docu- decrees allowing students to pass their personal sacrifice to sustain it. Therefore, I with the hetman in 1930, alleging that he ment, and each ministry is located as far as exams in Russian. There is only a draft owe you a debt of gratitude by supporting had behaved in an autocratic manner and possible from the other, keeps the oddest decree that has not been signed. This it monetarily and helping you sustain it. had agreed to renounce all future claims to hours, and hires staff that delights in finding draft could be used as an inducement by The national process of assimilation is Carpatho-Ukraine in return for a yearly a minor discrepancy in a document. He saw the Kuchma team to obtain votes among real. We can’t avoid it. Yet, we can remem- stipend from the Hungarian government. women who had come from the far reaches Russian-speakers. At the same time, ber our Ukrainian heritage at least by writ- During the 1920s, the monarchist vision of Ukraine break down and sit on the steps, Kuchma said recently that the state lan- ing and talking about, it even if we think it was a very popular political ideology crying their hearts out, only to have two guage can only be Ukrainian and by not is falling on deaf ears. among Ukrainians in North America. At the burly apes, heads shaved, knuckles drag- issuing the decree into the public So, thanks again for your work to sus- time, only the Communists could boast of a ging on the ground, boot them onto the domain, he can always argue that this tain the publication of The Ukrainian larger organizational membership. street. Slava Ukrayini! was always a “myth.” No such edict Weekly. America’s “hetmantsi” eventually estab- was ever published in the government lished their own organization, the hetman Perhaps the hetmans were right. Perhaps Joseph Jackson Ukrainians don’t know what they want. newspaper, Uriadovyi Kurier, or the Murray Hill, N.J. Sich (named after the Kozak stronghold), parliamentary newspaper, Holos initially headed by Dr. Stepan Hrynevotsky, Perhaps Ukraine still isn’t ethnonationally Ukrainy. a Chicago physician. Following the lead of ready for democratic self-rule. Ready or The Ukrainian Weekly welcomes letters not, the Ukrainian people have voted, as Dr. Taras Kuzio to the editor. Letters should be typed (dou- Polish Americans who organized Polish legions to fight for a free Poland after World they did during Soviet times, and the result, London ble-spaced) and signed; they must be origi- I’m afraid, may very well be the same. nals, not photocopies. War I, the charismatic Hrynevetsky con- The writer is honorary visiting The daytime phone number and address vinced some 100 young Ukrainian research fellow at the Ukraine Center of of the letter-writer must be given for verifi- Americans to join the American militia Myron Kuropas’ e-mail address is: the University of North London. cation purposes. (national guard) and to form a “Ukrainian” [email protected] 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1999 No. 44 Hundreds of international observers arrive in Ukraine for elections by Roman Woronowycz Many candidates have said that there is a 24 oblasts and the Crimean Autonomous whether they have confidence that their vote Kyiv Press Bureau distinct threat that widespread ballot falsifi- Republic on October 28 to note to what will be counted,” said Ms. Gregory. cations could take place, with some even extent the country’s elections are free, fair Ukrainian Americans and Canadians are KYIV – As Ukraine’s presidential hope- suggesting that millions of counterfeited and democratic as possible. also on hand to observe the presidential bal- fuls began winding down their campaigns ballots already had been printed. James Piriou, the head of the OSCE loting in groups organized by the Ukrainian to await the outcome of the October 31 Ukraine had been warned earlier by the team, which includes representatives Congress Committee of America, the vote, hundreds of international observers Council of Europe, which will have 15 from the European Union, the United Ukrainian World Congress and the U.S. were arriving to witness how Ukraine’s official representatives in the country to Nations Development Program, the Coordinating Committee to Aid Ukraine. 38.5 million electors make their decision. observe the presidential vote, that it had National Democratic Institute and U.S. Tamara Gallo, who heads the 29-person Ukraine’s Central Election Commission identified widespread intimidation and citizens officially designated by the UCCA team, said her group would pay par- said on October 27 that it expected more abrogation of the right of free expression U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, said that its ticular attention to whether individuals are than 500 foreign observers, and that 452 in its monitoring of the campaign season, primary goal is to monitor the voting casting their votes free of pressure and had already been registered in the country. including limited access to the press for process and to watch for contravention intimidation. The presidential pre-election campaign many candidates. Furthermore, the of Ukraine’s election law. “We want to make sure that everybody season was filled with ethically dubious if Council of Europe had called on the presi- “Obviously, we will be watching the votes like they want to. We have heard that not illegal campaign tactics, including a vir- dential administration to assure that the counting process, the territorial election there has been pressure from Kuchma cam- tual candidate blackout on state television. run-up to election day is free of further commissions, we will be trying to make paign workers that people could lose their undemocratic actions. sure that the process is as transparent as pos- jobs, especially in the villages,” explained The international observers, however, are sible,” said Mr. Piriou. Ms. Gallo. not here to police the elections and identify He said a particular emphasis will be Probably the most extensive monitor- Quotable wrongdoers. Their goal is to discourage vot- placed on how the voter returns are handled, ing of the elections will be done by the ing fraud, irregularities and favoritism by including the computer tallying. Ukrainian Committee of Voters, which their presence. They will monitor adherence The International Republican Institute will have some 15,000 volunteers in all notes to the election law and will check that local will have 23 individuals in Ukraine, chiefly the regions of Ukraine. The group drew “How does it become you to election commissions comply with ballot- in the central and eastern regions, although respect and praise for its unbiased and organize [election campaign] shows counting procedures standard for a demo- the western city of Ivano-Frankivsk will thorough work during the 1998 with dances and fireworks through- cratic country. They will monitor that candi- also be covered. The observers, mostly Verkhovna Rada elections. out the country while everyday able- date information is fairly and equally dis- Americans, with a few Ukrainian nationals The day after the presidential vote, the bodied people commit suicide played and that individuals vote alone and also registered, will be mobile, traveling to various observer groups will correlate the because they are not paid wages to not for their entire family, as is often the polling stations in various cities, towns and data they gathered and publicize their pre- support their families? While doctors case in post-Soviet countries. villages throughout the day. liminary findings. However, neither the cannot save lives of the new born The Organization for Security and E.G. Gregory, press secretary for the IRI OSCE nor any of the other organizations because they lack elementary medi- Cooperation in Europe will have the largest group, said that its observers have been have the power to impose sanctions on cines? While the country, which presence here. Some 200 observers were encouraged to quiz voters as they exit the Ukraine should they find that the presiden- until recently was rich, is now dying preparing to disperse throughout Ukraine’s polling stations. “We’ll be asking voters tial vote was undemocratic. in agony? How is it possible to treat ordinary people so contemptuously? In a telling sign of the fractiousness that What? Is there no money? In the ited the Moroz candidacy. decision had caused, Mr. Marchuk Social Protection Fund alone, you While admitting that the group had Kaniv Four... announced that he would go it alone, while have collected for your campaign (Continued from page 1) been dissatisfied with a Kaniv Three Plus emphasizing that he would continue to more money than [Ukraine’s] educa- tial decision to back Mr. Moroz. At the One scenario situation, in which Mr. time Mr. Marchuk had said he would work with the group and support its candi- Marchuk decided to stay at the perimeter tion and culture need for the whole date. The other three stated that, in turn, year. Has everything been stolen support the alliance’s choice and contin- of the alliance, and noting that the coali- ue to cooperate with it, but would also they would support the continued candidacy tion all along had been looking at other under your patronage even there? of Mr. Marchuk, albeit outside the frame- not withdraw his own candidacy. options to keep unity, Mr. Oliinyk said How is it possible to go to the people work of the alliance – and thus, the Kaniv At a separate press conference follow- the successful political attacks on Mr. and tell them stories about the enor- Four became the Kaniv Three Plus One. ing the coalition’s official announcement Moroz via television had changed the sit- mous successes of the reform under Because the four candidates had of its demise, Mr. Moroz acknowledged uation dramatically. your leadership when production announced at the time that they would leave his party had demanded that he continue “When the nation began to see nightly collapses, land is not plowed, and open the possibility that their choice could to run but disagreed with the notion that the face of [Serhii] Ivanchenko every people remain without work?” change before October 28, and because nei- – Presidential candidate he had dropped out of the Kaniv Four. He night, and when, along with his descrip- ther Mr. Oliinyk nor Mr. Tkachenko with- tion, it was repeatedly said that he was a Oleksander Moroz, criticizing said he hoped to continue consultations drew their respective candidacies, it became member of the Moroz campaign team, as President Leonid Kuchma on with the group. clear that the members of the alliance were if that were a tattoo on his forehead, we national television on October 18 The Socialist nominee explained that having a difficult time pleasing one another. had to take this under consideration,” and quoted by the October 21 issue he had made his decision after a Then on the morning of October 25, explained Mr. Oliinyk. of Tovarysh (as reported by marathon negotiating session that result- word spread among journalists that the Mr. Oliinyk said he kept his word and RFE/RL Poland, Belarus and ed in a switch of support by the group to alliance had switched its support to Mr. had withdrawn his candidacy in favor of Ukraine Report). Mr. Marchuk. He said he had even Marchuk after an all-night negotiating ses- agreed to a scenario in which he and Mr. Mr. Marchuk, but suggested that his candi- sion that had ended at 3:15 a.m. date is partly to blame for the collapse of * * * Marchuk would be named as the twin At a press conference later that day, Mr. the Kaniv Four as well. He indicated that it choice of the Kaniv Four. But that move Tkachenko explained that the negotiations “CIS summits [nowadays] are was opposed by Mr. Tkachenko, who was Mr. Marchuk who had caused the ini- held specially for the sake of were difficult and that all possible options tial dissent within the group when he had insisted that Mr. Symonenko become the were discussed. He acknowledged that [Ukraine’s President Leonid] alliance’s front man. declared that he would continue his own Kuchma in order to give an oppor- Communist candidate Mr. Symonenko had candidacy while supporting the group’s ini- Although Mr. Symonenko’s name was taken part in them, even though he was not tunity for heads of state and author- tial choice of Mr. Moroz. eventually cast aside, Mr. Moroz said he a member of the group. “Don’t forget that itative politicians to support him on realized his candidacy was no longer part Symonenko took part in the initial negotia- the eve of the presidential elec- of the group’s plans. “As a result I tions by which the Kaniv Four was tions.” became convinced that my options were formed,” explained Mr. Tkachenko. – President Alyaksandr limited,” said Mr. Moroz. The Peasant Party nominee said he New information... Lukashenka of Belarus commenting (Continued from page 1) The Kaniv Four candidates – Socialist would refrain from commenting on the on the October 8 summit of CIS nominee Mr. Moroz, Peasant Party nominee decision to back Mr. Marchuk until after the ence of Russian politicians into the prime ministers in Yalta, in which Mr. Tkachenko, Cherkasy Mayor four candidates had signed the political doc- Ukrainian election process,” said Ms. Belarus did not participate, as quot- Volodymyr Oliinyk and Mr. Marchuk, nom- ument formalizing their choice the next day, Sokurenko in her fax. ed by RFE/RL Poland, Belarus and inated by a bloc of rightist parties – had which, of course, never happened. Ms. Sokurenko went on to explain that, Ukraine Report (citing the October declared back on Ukrainian Independence The alliance’s break-up and its failure as a result of the grenade explosions, she 12 issue of Izvestiya.) Day (August 24) in the city of Kaniv their to stick with Mr. Moroz had much to do suffered multiple shrapnel wounds and intention to consolidate their efforts and with the political onslaught by state tele- spent 20 days in the hospital for treatment “It comes to mind that the presi- eventually support a single person from vision, controlled by the Kuchma admin- of head and kidney injures. dent of a friendly country has some- among themselves. They had said from the istration and the president’s election cam- On October 22 Serhii Liashenko of the what exaggerated the extent of his start that their foremost goal was to block paign team, against the Socialist nominee Security Service of Ukraine said that both influence on Ukraine’s electorate the re-election of incumbent President after a member of his campaign team in Mr. Samoilov and Mr. Ivanchenko had and the international situation as a Leonid Kuchma, and that this alone was Kryvyi Rih was implicated in the admitted throwing two grenades into a whole.” sufficient drive to keep them together. grenade attack on presidential candidate crowd of about 100 individuals who had – President Kuchma’s spokesman Many experts expressed doubt that the Natalia Vitrenko on October 2. Serhii lingered outside a public hall in Kryvyi Rih, Oleksander Martynenko responding four presidential candidates – all with Ivanchenko, the person accused of organ- from which Ms. Vitrenko had just exited on October 15 to President strong egos and ambitions – would agree izing the attack, has disappeared and is after a campaign appearance. Mr. Lukashenka’s remark on CIS sum- on a single choice, and most were star- being sought in Ukraine and Russia. Liashenko also said that the serial numbers mits, as reported by RFE/RL Poland, tled when the group, after failing to Kaniv Four member Mr. Oliinyk said at of the two grenades matched the series of Belarus and Ukraine Report (citing announce its choice before a self- an October 27 press conference that the similar grenades found in the arms cache the Associated Press). imposed deadline of October 10, put Kuchma campaign team and Ukraine’s law discovered in a cellar of the dacha owned forth Mr. Moroz four days later. enforcement organs had effectively discred- by Serhii Ivanchenko. No. 44 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1999 9 Journey to a recovered memory: a family’s roots in Volochysk

by Ken Moskowitz When I first met Ina Polyak, she made no claim of any expertise or scholarship. Yet I soon learned that this quiet, middle-aged woman had prepared a detailed history of her remote and tiny Ukrainian village, Volochysk. This piqued my interest, since my family’s history crossed Volochysk, and my chance residence in Ukraine almost a hundred years later would bring me back there – back to a Jewish community that had all but disappeared, and back to Ina and what she could tell me about the village. Grandma Esther, my most valuable source of family his- tory, first told me about Volochysk about 25 years ago. My parents, aunts and uncles always waved away my inquiries about the past with a dismissive remark. My one other grandparent died before I took an interest in family history. But Grandma Esther lived to be 93, and she cheerfully told me that, although she was born in Newark, N.J., as were my parents and I, her parents came from a village called Volochysk, in “You-kraine,” with the accent on the first syl- lable. In reply to my persistent questions, she could also fell me that the city was between Odesa and Kyiv, which was about all she seemed to know. Some 20 years after these conversations, I had my first real opportunity to pursue this inquiry. In 1996, as a foreign service officer with the U.S. Information Agency, I was assigned to Kyiv, as the information officer. While still in Washington, I asked a Ukrainian language instructor if he could help me find a place called Volochysk in Ukraine. Volochysk, May 1999: Volodymyr Miroshnichenko (left), Vira Voitko (front), Ina Polyak (second from right). At the time, I couldn’t quite remember what the name of The other two men are Mrs. Voitko’s son and husband. the city was, whether “Wolochisk,” or “Volachest,” or something similar. And I was far from confident that even a place called Volochysk. JOINT, a vast Jewish charitable joined us. They were very curious about why I would want Grandma Esther remembered the name correctly. But, after organization, had records that showed 12 Jews living there, to see their modest village, but were delighted in any case to failing on several maps, we found a true-to-life Volochysk but could provide no names. The Peace Corps, with over see my interest. We arrived in Volochysk early the next in western Ukraine, about 280 miles north of Odesa and 200 volunteers in Ukraine, had none in Volochysk. No morning, and Vasyl’s father, Volodymyr, met us at the sta- about 190 miles west of Kyiv. It was as if Grandma Esther Fulbright Scholars come from Volochysk. But a young tion. Initial signs were all positive. The weather was crisp were with me again, pleased that her memory had been staffer at ACCELS, a USIA-funded organization that man- and clear. The station seemed to have been recently renovat- confirmed. There really was a little “shtetl” called ages high school exchanges, remembered meeting a boy ed. Volodymyr, who is about my age and had heard about Volochysk, where my ancestors had lived. What’s more, from that village. He is a student in Khmelnytskyi, the capi- my interests, had a full agenda planned for my weekend. It there were two Volochysks: a simple Volochysk to the east, tal of the eponymous oblast, but living with his parents in turned out that he is a neurologist and a voluminous reader, and an apparently smaller “Pidvolochysk” to the west. Volochysk. And there was a phone number. and is the one who has researched the Jewish history of the As I explored the region, other interesting facts came to Vasyl was at home when I called. Yes, he says, I have village. After a breakfast of oatmeal, black bread, and light: The two villages were separated by a river that, until reached Volochysk. Yes, he was an exchange student in the “tvorokh,” which is something like farmers cheese, with World War I, had served as the international border between United States. No, he is not currently a student in Vasyl’s mother, Oksana, and brother, Sasha, the brothers Volochysk in the Russian Empire under the tsars, and Khmelnytskyi. Well, no, he will not be in Volochysk if I took me on a tour around a nearby lake. Pidvolochysk, or Lower Volochysk, in the Austro- come to visit in two weeks because he studies in Kyiv, and They pointed out a local vocational college and the Hungarian Empire. My ancestors, it seemed, had lived in a has only returned for the weekend to see his parents. I am shoreside factory that polluted the lake until it was shut border town. But I still had my doubts. How well had either delighted to hear that he can meet me in Kyiv. down several years ago. The man-made lake looked pretty Grandma Esther or I remembered the name of our ances- A few days later, Vasyl paid me a visit in my office. He is clean to me, especially for early in the morning on such a tors’ village? Couldn’t there be several towns that sound a bright, cheerful 17-year-old studying at the prestigious fine day, and the pollution didn’t deter the several fishermen like “Volochysk” and that could just have easily be pin- Institute of Foreign Relations just up the street. He had who had dropped their lines into the water. pointed on a detailed map of Ukraine? Was I really on the already explored the history of the village. He gave me the By the time we returned to Vasyl’s home, Volodymyr had right track to finding my ancestors’ village? Maybe not, but name of a former history teacher from Volochysk who now a car and driver waiting. We trundled off in the old Lada, it was all I had to go on: A town that sounded like what I lives in Kyiv. Vasyl had learned that there are three Jewish past backyard gardens, dachas, and a deserted town center, thought my grandmother had said. cemeteries, but that they are hard to reach. Moreover, with where the former Lenin statue had been removed from its Having no chance to explore the Volochysk of the map the help of his parents, he had talked to a few Jews. There pedestal shortly after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1990. in Washington, I put that piece of the puzzle aside. Another are very few Jews in Volochysk, he said, but there used to The central post office beside it was open, but only to dis- piece was Grandma Esther’s “postals,” her childhood col- be a great many. We quickly developed a congenial rela- tribute pension payments to retirees; I was not permitted to lection of 17 postcards from 1905-1907 that I, as the family mail a postcard to my parents in New Jersey with a tionship, and, on his second visit, he recommended that I antiquarian, had acquired. Some were written in English Volochysk postmark. (Vasyl would mail it for me later, and stay with him and his family in Volochysk, rather than the from Newark or Ann Arbor, Mich., but others were from this “postal” became a modern addition to Grandma dingy Druzhba (Friendship) Hotel. I accepted his offer. relatives and family friends living or traveling in Russia, Esther’s collection.) A week later, we were sharing a second-class overnight Japan and, yes, Ukraine. The most suggestive, to my mind, We then drove out to “Volochysk One,” as the old histor- sleeper train cabin to Volochysk. I bought the round-trip was from an American traveler writing from my future (Continued on page 14) home. “You should see this place,” he wrote from Kyiv in cabin for the weekend trip, and a high school pal of Vasyl’s 1907, “It beats Detroit by a mile.” This was one to amuse many Kyivites in the late 1990s! There were also several puzzling cards. These had the grey weight of the ages on them: plain manila postcards with dog-eared edges, and a gnarled Yiddish applied with a fountain pen. They would have to wait until I could find someone of my grandparents’ generation who could read the Yiddish and decipher them for me. But I didn’t have to wait so long to find meaning in them. The mystery fell away in a moment about a year later, several months after arriving in Kyiv for my assign- ment. Studying the cards one night, I focused on one aspect I had unaccountably neglected: in the round postal mark of the tsars, the many years separating me from my great- grandparents, dividing the shtetl from the suburb, the Yiddish from the English, suddenly fell away, Stamped in Cyrillic Russian, partly rubbed away but still clearly visible, dated 1907, was the sender’s post office: Volochysk. * * * A year later I was still investigating in Kyiv. A Reform rabbi and other Jewish sources could supply no contacts in

Ken Moskowitz was press attache at the American Embassy in Kyiv in 1997-1999 after serving as press offi- cer in Budapest and Tokyo. He is currently a Congressional Fellow in Foreign Affairs, on sabbatical from the Department of State. Ina Polyak and Vira Voitko at the Jewish cemetery in Volochysk. 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1999 No. 44 Plishka and Pyatnychko to appear with Opera Orchestra of New York

NEW YORK – Bass Paul Plishka, Met’s 30th anniversary and the pension leading member of the Metropolitan fund galas. Opera, and baritone Stephan Pyatnychko, Mr. Plishka has an extensive discogra- who makes his Carnegie Hall and New phy on Angel, ABC, Columbia, Erato, York operatic debut, will appear with the London, RCA and Vox Records. His Opera Orchestra of New York in recording of Verdi’s Requiem with the Donizetti’s little known and neglected Atlanta Symphony and Robert Shaw won opera “Adelia” on Thursday, November a Grammy award for the best classical 11, in Carnegie Hall. album of 1988. His most recent record- The opera, first performed in Rome in ings are “Luisa Miller” and “Le Nozze di 1841, is the only completed opera written Figaro,” both with James Levine and the during the composer’s last decade of Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, and active life not to have been revived in the Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony with the 20th century. Messrs. Plishka and London Philharmonic conducted by Pyatnychko will appear in the roles of André Previn.. Arnoldo and Carlo, respectively. * * * * * * The appearance on the international Mr. Plishka, whose professional base operatic scene of a truly Italianate bari- is with the Metropolitan Opera, which he tone is an event that commands notice, joined in 1967, appears regularly with and Mr. Pyatnychko is quickly taking on major opera companies in North this mantle in his appearances in the American cities and in Europe. West. Highlights of his repertoire for the Born in 1963 in the village of Bass Paul Plishka Baritone Stephan Pyatnychko 1999/2000 season include performances Hnylovody in the Ternopil region of with the Metropolitan Opera in “Aida,” Ukraine, Mr. Pyatnychko began his vocal Onegin”, as well as the role of Ostap in reprised at the Konzerthaus in Vienna the “Otello”, “Le Nozze di Figaro”, “Lucia studies in 1983 at the Lysenko “Taras Bulba” by the Ukrainian compos- following year. He returned to the di Lammermoor”, “Elisir d’Amore”, Conservatory in Lviv. Upon graduation er Mykola Lysenko. Bregenz Festival in 1998 singing in “Tristan und Isolde” and “Il Barbiere di in 1987, he became the house baritone Mr. Pyatnychko’s European debut Montemezzi’s “L’Amore dei Tre Re,” Siviglia”. for the Ivan Franko Opera Theater in took place in October 1996 in the title and will return yet again to sing in “Un Mr. Plishka’s recent engagements Lviv. role of “Rigoletto” for the Geneva Opera, Ballo in Maschera” in the summer of include a return to the Salzburg Festival It was there that he learned his craft followed by his American debut as Count 2000. for performances as the Grand and performed the core of his current di Luna in “Il Trovatore” for the Future engagements include “La Inquisitor in “Don Carlo,” “La repertoire, which includes “La Traviata” Baltimore Opera. Traviata”, “Il Trovatore” and “Rigoletto” Damnation de Faust” with the Atlanta (in the role of Germont), “Il Trovatore” In the summer of 1997 he made his for the San Francisco Opera (2002), Symphony, “Missa Solemnis” with the (Count di Luna), “I Pagliacci” (Tonio), first appearance at the Bregenz Festival “Nabucco” for the Vienna State Opera Pasadena Symphony, “Ernani” with the Tchaikovsky’s “Iolanta” (Robert), the in Austria, in the title role of Anton and “Simone Boccanegra” for the Marseille Opera, and as a soloist in the title role in Tchiakovsky’s “Eugene Rubenstein’s “The Demon,” which he Deutsche Oper Berlin. Yara Arts Group teams up HE KRAINIAN EEKLY T U Established 1933W PUBLISHED BY THE UKRAINIAN NATIONAL ASSOCIATION INC. with bandurists and UIA 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054 • (973) 292-9800 • Fax (973) 644-9510 NEW YORK – Yara Arts Group, the Theater and with Yara in the group’s first New York Bandura Ensemble and the project in Ukraine, titled “In the Light.” ADVERTISE IN THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY Ukrainian Institute of America will pres- Today, she is an award-winning per- PUBLISHED IN ENGLISH ON SUNDAYS ent “Harvest: Ukrainian Folk Song former and musical director of the ALL ADVERTISEMENTS MUST BE RECEIVED ONE WEEK PRIOR TO PUBLICATION: FRIDAY NOON. Today” on November 13-14. The two- Gardzenice Theater in Poland. day festival of song will include three Singer Ms. Kochan and New York FULL PAGE (58”) ...... $600.00 QUARTER PAGE (141/2) ...... $165.00 major events: “Sing with the Ancestors,” Bandura Ensemble music director Mr. HALF PAGE (29”) ...... $310.00 EIGHTH PAGE (71/4)...... $ 85.00 a Saturday afternoon workshop in Kytasty have collaborated in exploring FOUR-PAGE CENTERFOLD PULLOUT ...... $2,900.00 Ukrainian folk song; a Saturday evening the depth and artistic potential of ancient event, “Ancient Song, New Voices,” fea- Ukrainian folk song and instrumental All General Advertising ...... $12.00 (1 inch, single column) turing a presentation of ancient folk music. Ms. Kochan, a native of Fraternal and Community Advertising ...... $ 7.50 (1 inch, single column) songs in Ukraine today by Maryana Winnipeg, studied folk singing in Information on Mechanical Requirements: a) Width of one column ...... 2 5/16 inches Ukraine with the Viryovka National Folk 1 Sadovska; a concert of new interpretation b) Length of one column ...... 14 /2 inches of traditional songs by Alexis Kochan Choir. Her recording “Czarivna,” “Paris c) Columns to a page ...... 4 and Julian Kytasty; and a Sunday after- to Kiev” and “Paris to Kyiv: Variances” noon concert – “New Music From Old have broken new ground in reinterpret- 1-9 ads ...... $12.00 per inch/sc ing traditional Ukrainian music and pre- 10 or more ads ...... 20% discount Sources,” with performances by the senting it for today’s World Music audi- 24 or more ads ...... 25% discount Experimental Bandura Trio and 52 ads ...... 30% discount Staroviry. The events will take place at ences. the Ukrainian Institute of America at 2 E. Mr. Kytasty is a third generation pro- ALL ADVERTISEMENTS ARE SUBJECT TO APPROVAL 79th Street at Fifth Avenue. fessional bandurist, who has become Yara has invited Ms. Kochan, Mr. known as a performer, composer and NOTE: Kytasty and Ms. Sadovska to open the music educator. His music combines a 1. A 50% deposit must accompany the text of the advertisement. weekend with a workshop of traditional mastery of traditional styles with a dis- 2. All advertising correspondence should be directed to Advertising Department. Ukrainian folk songs. Those interested in tinctly contemporary sensibility. Last 3. Kindly make checks payable to The Ukrainian Weekly. learning how to sing in the traditional year he worked with Yara to create the Ukrainian style, can do so from 1 p.m.-5 music for “In Verse,” contemporary p.m., on Saturday, November 13. The Ukrainian poetry in performance. After participants of “Sing with the Ancestors” the concert on Saturday, the audience can will have an opportunity to sing and meet with the artists at a reception. To The Weekly Contributors: experience a repertoire ranging from pre- “New Music From Old Sources,” the We greatly appreciate the materials – feature articles, news stories, press clippings, letters to the edi- Christian ritual songs, to historical songs Sunday afternoon event will begin at 5 tor, and the like – we receive from our readers. In order to facilitate preparation of The Ukrainian p.m. and will feature performances by Weekly, we ask that the guidelines listed below be followed. and ballads. the Experimental Bandura Trio and ® “Ancient Song, New Voices,” the News stories should be sent in not later than 10 days after the occurrence of a given event. Staroviry. The Experimental Bandura ® Saturday evening event, will begin at 8 All materials must be typed (or legibly hand-printed) and double-spaced. Trio – Mr. Kytasty, Mike Andrec and ® p.m. and will feature a presentation of Photographs (originals only, no photocopies oir computer printouts) submitted for publication must Yuri Fedynsky – has been working be accompanied by captions. Photos will be returned only when so requested and accompanied by songs by Ms. Sadovska and a concert by a stamped, addressed envelope. intensively for the past three summers to ® Ms. Kochan and Ms. Kytasty. Ms. Full names (i.e., no initials) and their correct English spellings must be provided. develop a repertoire of innovative music ® Sadovska has been collecting ancient Newspaper and magazine clippings must be accompanied by the name of the publication and the for the bandura, crossing contemporary date of the edition. folk songs in the villages of Ukraine. ® influences ranging from minimalism to Information about upcoming events must be received one week before the date of The Weekly edi- Her presentation will include her inter- tion in which the information is to be published. free jazz with the rhythms, textures and ® pretations of these songs, as well as Persons who submit any materials must provide a daytime phone number where they may be modes of the ancient epic tradition. reached if any additional information is required. slides of the grandmothers who taught ® During their first performance in July Unsolicited materials submitted for publication will be returned only when so requested and accom- them to her. the group enchanted the audience with panied by a stamped, addressed envelope. Ms. Sadovska was born in Lviv where she performed with the Les Kurbas (Continued on page 16) No. 44 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1999 11 Nusha Martynuk awarded Cleveland Arts Prize for Dance

OBERLIN, Ohio – Choreographer son ... It shows me sandwiched between Nusha Martynuk, professor of dance at two generations, parents and children, Oberlin College, was recently awarded trying to offer guidance and support to the 1999 Cleveland Arts Prize for Dance both, and at the same time examining in recognition of her creative achieve- how each of those generations influenced ment in the field. me,” she said in an article carried by the Ms. Martynuk’s prize was the first to Oberlin paper. be awarded in the category of dance Ms. Martynuk noted that in the begin- since 1995 – it had been that long since ning of her career she choreographed the prize jury felt there was a choreogra- dances based on traditional Ukrainian pher in the area who had created a body folk dances, but later moved away from of work with a national reputation. that style. Still, elements of Ukrainian The awards ceremony for the presti- folk dancing show up in her work even gious prize, which was accorded, apart now. from dance, in the categories of litera- “In recent years, what I feel is that the ture, music and the visual arts, was whole Slavic attitude of my upbringing held September 21 at the Cleveland is coming out in my work...It runs Museum of Art. The event was covered through in ways that I didn’t expect,” in the Cleveland Plain Dealer (July 26) she noted. and the Oberlin News-Tribune (August 10). * * * The Cleveland Arts Prize for Dance Ms. Martynuk earned her master’s recognizes the entire body of Ms. degree in 1976 from Temple University, Martynuk’s work as a choreographer, where she studied with Hellmut beginning in 1973, when she first started Gottschild (a disciple of the German showing her work publicly. modern dance pioneer Mary Wigman) As noted in a statement by Kathryn and danced with the acclaimed Zero Karipides, chair of this year’s dance jury Moving Company in Philadelphia. and former winner of the prize for dance, She later moved to New York, where the award honors Ms. Martynuk’s pow- she was an independent solo choreogra- erful and daring work as a choreogra- pher and dancer with the federally fund- pher, citing such qualities as “... mastery ed Artists’ Project. She also toured inter- of craft, impeccable use of spatial nationally with the Nikolais Dance dynamics and her creativity and imagina- Theatre. tion in making dances that are physically In 1982, as artist-in-residence at daring and emotionally challenging... ,” Trinity College, she founded, with her going on to note that her work has “an husband and longtime collaborator Carter intense visual and visceral impact on the McAdams, a modern dance company audience.” called Partners: Martynuk/McAdams The statement singles out two recent Dance. works: “Requiem,” a deeply moving solo Ms. Martynuk has been teaching in in which, using an ingenious apparatus to Oberlin College’s outstanding theater Dancer and choreographer Nusha Martynuk, 1999 Winner of the Cleveland Arts suspend herself above the stage, Ms. and dance program since 1988. Prize for Dance. Martynuk created vivid physical and emotional images of loss and remem- brance; and the ensemble work “The Great Lalula,” inspired by Oberlin com- Horowitz competition winners perform at New York Consulate poser Randy Coleman’s original score, set to the nonsense-word poem “The by Bohdanna Wolanska First to play was 13-year-old Vadym For an encore he played Horowitz’s ren- Kholodenko, second-place winner in dition of Bizet’s “Gypsies’ Dance” from Great Lalula,” with music that pulsates NEW YORK – Flexing their fingers, with intense Latin beats and wild jazz. the youngest age group, performing “Carmen.” chatting with the elite musical and Revutsky’s Prelude, Op. 7. Firmly and Each of the pianists received a bou- The latter was recently performed at diplomatic company present, or simply Cain Park by The Repertory Project, warmly the notes unraveled under his quet of flowers from Ms. Karanowycz, lost in their own thoughts, four young Cleveland’s professional modern dance sensitive touch, at once still childish president of the Ukrainian Music piano virtuosos prepared for a mini- repertory company. and surprisingly assured. Institute of America, and during the concert at the Ukraine’s Consulate Ms. Martynuk’s passion for dance can Fifteen-year-old Daniil Shleyenkov brief but elegantly prepared reception General in New York on Wednesday, be traced to her childhood when her from Belarus, second-place winner in that followed the performance, mem- October 13. father taught her his beloved Ukrainian the second age group, followed with a bers of the audience had an opportunity Winners of Kyiv’s third annual folk dances. “Building on her childhood rhythmically sharply defined and spir- to meet these impeccably well-man- Vladimir Horowitz International Piano sense of rhythm and form, she has devel- ited rendition of Chopin’s Polonaise in nered and refreshingly modest young Competition, they gazed from the bal- oped a daring style of choreography and A-flat, Op. 53, as angular as his adoles- artists. cony overlooking a backyard park of a unique way of moving that has brought cent frame. For those sceptics who think that her national recognition as a choreogra- lush greenery, alcoves, friezes and Then the audience was charmed by Ukrainians won because of patronage pher, dancer and teacher,” Ms. Karipides fountains; their youthful yet deter- 25-year-old Seiko Tsukamoto from or favoritism, let it be known that there wrote. mined faces reflected the peace and Japan, second-place winner in the old- were 87 finalists from 18 countries, Reflecting on her 26 years in dance, order of this little oasis so uncharacter- est group and the only woman on the and 10 judges from seven countries, Ms. Martynuk was quoted by the istic of New York. tour, who spun out the grace, intricacy including Jerome Lowenthal from the Cleveland Plain Dealer as saying that Eagerly awaiting their performance and power of Liszt’s paraphrases of Juilliard School of Music (United “Sometimes my interests are out of step were Prof. Valeriy Kozlov, head of the Verdi’s Rigoletto in traceries of silk, States) and Warren Thompson, director with what’s trendy. I just do what I need competition judges’ panel, Consul silver and steel, transcending the capa- of the Sydney Institute of Music to do.” General Aleksandr Ostrovsky of bilities of the honest but humble (Australia). In her work as choreographer, Ms Belarus, Consul Shingo Okazaki of upright piano beneath her fingers. The importance of competitions like Martynuk is often “motivated by a con- Japan, Ukrainian Consul General Yuriy Finally, the audience was treated to a the Horowitz competition to Ukrainian fluence of ideas topped off by a sense Bohaievsky, Vice-Consul Hanne stirring performance of two self-identity, culture and international of urgency too great to ignore. Kushniryk and the Consulate staff, rep- Rachmaninoff preludes by 21-year-old status cannot be overstated. Thoughts, moments and images com- resentatives of the Ukrainian Institute Oleksiy Hryniuk, first-place winner in Under centuries of Russian domina- bine.” For example, her most recent of America and the Ukrainian Music the oldest group. If Ms. Seiko made the tion, only the folk aspect of Ukrainian piece, “Grave Blessings,” was inspired Institute of America, a half-dozen rep- piano sing, then Mr. Hryniuk made it “provincial” culture was allowed to by a story she heard on radio relating resentatives of other organizations of roar. The responsibility of bringing develop, if at all. Potentially world the travails of an Albanian doctor who musical or cultural significance, and, home first prize for Ukraine seemed to class classical artists were either sup- was captured and tortured during the most notably, three generations of weigh heavily on him – shoulders leap- pressed altogether, or, if possible, pre- conflict in Kosovo; this harrowing Ukrainian pianists of international ing almost adversarially into the piano, empted into the Russian arts – just account was eventually transformed by renown in the persons of Daria his long fingers occasionally trembling think of Hohol (Gogol, in Russian), Ms. Martynuk and her students in the Karanowycz, Oleksander Slobodyanyk with intensity and his face the very pic- Bortniansky, Tchaikovsky, Stravinsky, creation of a dance that celebrates and Volodymyr Vynnytsky. ture of concentration. Kozlovsky and many others, the very man’s altruism. Consul General Bohaievsky warmly Mr. Hryniuk demonstrated his mas- flower of Ukrainian creativity, that the If indeed one work can somehow welcomed this fourth generation of tery of the instrument, commanding it to world still takes for Russians. reflect the totality of one’s work, then pianists, by all indications soon to be explode in formidable waves of sound, Now, under the banner of Vladimir Ms. Martynuk considers that her 1995 of international renown as well. And he for which the spent but satisfied audi- Horowitz, the first pianist of the mod- solo piece titled “Bound” is perhaps welcomed them proudly, since two of ence rewarded him with some pretty “truest in terms of who I am as a chore- them are Ukrainian. formidable waves of sound of its own. (Continued on page 13) ographer, and as a dancer, and as a per- 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1999 No. 44

hearted one, and a staunch supporter of an THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY Between the Russian... independent Ukraine. (Continued from page 6) Ukraine’s presidential election campaign both Mr. Symonenko’s and parliamentary has so far been less than exemplary, to say Chairman Oleksander Tkachenko’s elec- the least. It has been characterized by lan- torate – a goal he failed to achieve while guage that is invariably harsh, very often campaigning within the so-called Kaniv offensive and sometimes vulgar. The Four election alliance with Mr. Marchuk, administration keeps the electronic media – Tkachenko and Volodymyr Oliinyk. both state-controlled and commercial – on a ( ) However, the failure to arrive at a political tight rein, not allowing those media to give CALL 973 292-9800 compromise even with Mr. Tkachenko more air time to Mr. Kuchma’s rivals than (who is now supporting Mr. Symonenko) was prescribed by the Central Election means that Mr. Moroz is less likely to Commission. At the same time, Mr. “KARPATY” HANDYMAN appear in the runoff than either Mr. Kuchma receives extensive coverage in the ECONOMY AIIRFARES PAINTING • RENOVATION • REPAIRS Symonenko or Ms. Vitrenko. state media as the incumbent head of state. + tax INTERIOR/EXTERIOR (round trip) Mr. Marchuk’s chances of reaching the It appears, however, that neither NYC/Lviv $599 Ukrainian citizens nor the international + tax Quality work! Reasonable rates! second round seem even more remote than NYC/Kyiv $499 (round trip) Quick turnaround! Moroz’s. In fact, Marchuk is seeking sup- community would protest very much if + tax Free estimates. No job too small. port among the same electorate as Mr. President Kuchma were elected for another one way $429 Vasili Cholak Kuchma – that is, among those supporting five years. For many inside and outside Tel. (718) 973-6821; Beeper (917) 491-6150 both Ukraine’s pro-market reform and Ukraine, such an outcome would mean con- Fregata Travel strong statehood. Voters may prefer tinuation and stability, even if embarrassing- 250 West 57 Street, #1211 President Kuchma, who has already proven ly low political and economic standards New York, NY 10107 himself to be a reformer, if only a half- continue to prevail. Tel.: 212-541-5707 Fax: 212-262-3220 Michael P. Hrycak, Esq. Attorney at Law CRIMINAL AND CIVIL MATTERS TO TRIAL AND APPEAL, COMPUTER LAW Member of Bar: NJ, NY, CT, DC Business in brief FIRST QUALITY 316 Lenox Avenue, Westfield, NJ 07090 (Continued from page 3) UKRAINIAN TRADITIONAL-STYLE Office: (908) 789-1870, (732) 627-0517 order to compensate Ukraine for losses incurred by Kharkiv-based Turboatom and other firms, the Israeli-supported Kharkiv Initiative Project was launched, aimed at implementing MONUMENTS a number of economic initiatives to stimulate the operation of enterprises in the region. SERVING NY/NJ/CT REGION CEMETERIES Analysts think the participation of domestic companies in foreign contracts is necessary in OBLAST order to uphold Ukraine’s image as a reliable supplier of power generating equipment MEMORIALS FLOWERS because Russia wants to force Ukraine out of this market. According to the source, Russia P.O. BOX 746 has turned down a Ukrainian bid to participate in power plant construction in China and Chester, NY 10918 India. UkrInterEnergo is lobbying the presidential administration to reconsider the Bushehr 914-469-4247 decision. (Eastern Economist) BILINGUAL HOME APPOINTMENTS Delivered in Ukraine Ohio firm signs KharkivOblEnergo deal 1-800-832-1789 AKRON – Through a grant from the U.S. Agency for International Development, the United States Energy Association (USEA) has selected FirstEnergy Corp. of Akron, Ohio, Landmark, Ltd. as a best-practice utility partner for KharkivOblEnergo, the electric distribution company MEEST AGENCY for Kharkiv Oblast. 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Osyp Moroz runs for Ulster County Legislature It is with great sorrow and sadness in our hearts KERHONKSON, N.Y. – Dr. Osyp and chief fiscal officer. that we notify family, friends, professional colleagues, Moroz has been nominated for the Ulster Dr. Moroz was awarded a Certificate and former students of the very recent and unexpected County Legislature by the county’s of Appreciation from the National Forum passing away on Wednesday morning, Democratic Committee. Foundation in recognition of his volun- October 13, 1999, at 73 years of age Dr. Moroz, who earned a B.S. in busi- teer services with Ukraine’s Parliament ness administration and a master’s degree and Cabinet of Ministers. He is a profes- and doctorate in economics, has served sional member of the World Future as advisor to the president of the Society, and has consistently shown sup- American University in Bulgaria, and as port for Ukraine in his international and consultant to the Cabinet of Ministers domestic activities and correspondence. and Parliament of Ukraine. Dr. Moroz, who still finds time to assist In addition, he has worked at the with Meals on Wheels for Ulster County State University of New York at senior citizens, will run for the county leg- Purchase as director of business affairs islature on Election Day, November 2. Oleh M. Kuritza Volyn tour is canceled Oleh “Olku” Kuritza was a devoted husband, loving father and endearing grandfather. A proud patriot and strong supporter of the Ukrainian community NEW YORK – Leonid Oleksiuk, presi- “Dateline” writer Helen Smindak last in Chicago for over 47 years, he was an active board member of various dent of Encore Productions in Toronto, week that attendance at concerts had been organizations, including: Lions – Ukrainian American Sports Club, announced on October 19 that the Volyn poor despite wide publicity in the St. Joseph’s Ukrainian Catholic Church, Plast Pryjat, Ukrainian Tennis Club Ukrainian Song and Dance Company tour Ukrainian, Polish and Russian media, and of Chicago, as well as the Ukrainian Engineers’ Society of America. had been canceled following its Chicago “phenomenal” reviews in the Ukrainian appearance on October 17. The company press in Toronto and Edmonton. He said He was the founder and for 27 years the chairman and professor (emeritus) flew to Warsaw on October 20 and traveled ticket sellers had been requested to reim- of the Department of Electrical Technology at the College of DuPage the remainder of the journey home by bus. burse those who had purchased tickets for in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. Mr. Oleksiuk told The Weekly cancelled Volyn concerts. His untimely death has left a tremendous emptiness in the hearts Plast), Sunday’s activities at Soyuzivka of all who knew him. We hope that the many shared memories Plast begins 50th... centered on the adoption of resolutions and treasured moments with him will live forever within us. (Continued from page 4) penned at various committee meetings and for both younger and older “plastuny” the swearing-in of the new Plast leader- wife – Henriette (Genia) ship, as well as distribution of various who have not seen one another since the son – George and wife, Areta end of various summer camps. honorary medals and awards. Chief Plastun Romankiw gave an daughter – Theresa and husband, Taras Jaworsky Plast doctrine has guided him through granddaughters – Diana and Victoria many aspects of his life, Mr. Hawryluk insightful talk on the current state of Plast sister-in-law – Wanda Bahmet and family observed: “Plast taught me leadership and in Ukraine, whose membership, he said, is self-discipline, as well as how to deal with over 10,000. There are Plast branches in as well as family in the United States, Canada, Austria and Ukraine individuals on a rational basis, and it has many cities in Ukraine, including Crimea. helped me develop a world view that Dr. Romankiw encouraged the participants guides my actions and my life.” of the 24th national convention to turn Following divine liturgy celebrated by their attentions to Plast in Ukraine, and offer assistance – both financial and in the We are deeply saddened to announce the passing Archbishop Sulyk, who was assisted by on Wednesday, October 20, 1999, the Rev. Kaszczak (both members of form of scouting knowledge and experi- ence – to their fellow “plastuny” now reor- after a long illness, having lived 81 years, ganizing Plast in Ukraine. of our dear wife, mother, grandmother and sister Dr. Romankiw also commended the Horowitz competition... many Plast members who are active in (Continued from page 11) other Ukrainian community organizations and whose hard work has proven their ern era to be universally recognized as dedication to preserving the Ukrainian one of the greatest of all time (also wide- heritage for future generations. ly thought to be a Russian), this competi- The biennial Plast meeting not only tion has not only reclaimed him as a served as the official beginning of festivi- native son of Ukraine, but has created a ties commemorating the 50th anniversary fitting showcase to make known the Maria Stakhiw of Plast in the United States, but also pro- depth and quality of Ukrainian classical née Wynnykiw vided those with a vested interest in con- talent to the rest of the world. The funeral liturgy was held on Saturday, October 23, 1999, at 9:30 a.m. tinuing the organization’s goals with a According to Anna Smekhova, the at St. Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church in Ramsey, N.J. renewed sense of purpose in continuing competition’s director of international Interment was at Holy Ghost Cemetery in Hamptonburg, N.Y. their work with Ukrainian youth. relations, the competition’s organizers Liturgies were held that day also in Lviv at St. George Cathedral For more information on the Plast are now looking for commercial spon- and at the cathedral in Peremyshl. Ukrainian Scouting Organization, visit the sorship to permit better publicized and website at http://www.plast.org. longer tours for next year’s winners, to in deep sorrow: let the rest of the world know what husband – Evhen constructive work is being done in the sons – Zenon, with wife, Lesia and daughter, Natalia arts. Correction – Boris, with wife, Oksana and children, Timothy and Tatiana. Perhaps members of the Ukrainian In the photo caption of Parents daughter – Larissa diaspora in the U.S. and elsewhere can Committee presidents honored at the 50th brothers – Jaroslaw, with wife, Daria give them a hand in contacting potential anniversary banquet of the School of – Wolodymyr, with son, Askold sponsors. As they strike a blow for Ukrainian Studies in New York, organiz- as well as family in Germany, the Netherlands, Peremyshl and Ukraine Ukrainian culture in the world arena, let ers omitted the name of the first person on us join in wishing them success. the left: Swiatoslawa Kaczaraj.

Turning the pages... DEATH ANNOUNCEMENTS

(Continued from page 6) to be published in The Ukrainian Weekly – in the Ukrainian or English language – are accepted by mail, courier, fax, phone or e-mail. those newspapers which are devoid of any material pertaining to the Ukrainian community and its activities. Deadline: Tuesday noon before the newspaper’s date of issue. “Anthony Dragan, editor of Svoboda, elaborated in detail on the fundamental principles (The Weekly goes to press early Friday mornings.) of journalism as practiced in the United States and Canada. In an obvious attempt to project the application of these principles to the Ukrainian press and publications. Mr. Dragan dealt Rate: $7.50 per column-inch. at length on the meaning of such terms as freedom of the press, public opinion, constructive Information should be addressed to the attention of the Advertising Department criticism, objective reporting, editorial stand and commenting, the role of the crusading and sent to: The Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280 (NB: please press and other features of the free press in relation to society. Mr. Dragan, pointing to the do not include post office box if sending via courier), Parsippany, N.J. 07054; specific function of the Ukrainian press in the free world, urged the adoption of a set of fax, (973) 644-9510; telephone, (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040; working rules as a bona fide guide for all working journalists.” e-mail, [email protected]. Source: “Journalists meet in first conference at Soyuzivka,” The Ukrainian Weekly, Please include the daytime phone number of a contact person. November 6, 1965. 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1999 No. 44

There was no visible vandalism or graffiti. Journey to a recovered... The site might always have been too remote (Continued from page 9) to attract trouble-makers. ical part of town was known. It looked no * * * different, alas, than the rest of the village. For my last day, Vasyl and Volodymyr Our destination was the home of Vira had promised to find someone who could Prokopivna Voitko, a frail, elderly retired decipher my Yiddish “postals.” In the town schoolteacher, who said she remembered center we met Ina Polyak, who had accom- the Jewish community well. In her roomy panied us to the former Jewish neighbor- but rustic parlor, we sat on simple wooden hood the day before, and her elderly friend, chairs around a rickety table, and looked at a gentleman in a stylish cap, Fina Baranfeld, old black-and-white photos. who arched his elbow back in order to Mrs. Voitko pointed out the Jewish throw out his arm to shake your hand, schoolmates in the group shots from the which he did with obvious pleasure. Ina 1920s and 1930s. Mrs. Voitko explained gave me a small commemorative pin with that the heart of the Jewish community had “Volochysk” on it. The engraving showed a been right outside her door, across what at sugar beet, a factory, a plowed field, and a one time had been the central square of hammer and sickle on a red background. Volochysk, now a wide intersection with Fina then led us several blocks away, large but bare lots. into a courtyard and up to his third floor The Ukrainians had their schools, as had apartment to meet his wife, Dora the Poles and Jews, but the Soviets brought Yakavlovna. Dora, frail and about 80 years them all together in the same schools. Still, old, had lived most of her life in each nationality retained its own language, Khmelnytskyi Oblast in a Jewish village of which the others understood very little. called Kupish, which lost all its inhabitants Given the proximity of the Jewish neigh- and disappeared. The few survivors who borhood, however, Mrs. Voitko said she did not emigrate, like Dora, wandered off to understood some Yiddish, and took great other villages or towns. pride in showing me that she could still Was Kupish a shtetl? I asked Dora in write her name with Yiddish characters. Ukrainian. When I repeated the question, The Jews, she said, who mostly disap- she understood me: “Yes, of course, a shtetl, peared during World War II, had been the “ she replied. I felt that I had at long last chief component of Volochysk’s artisan and made contact with the Jewish tradition of commercial class. While the Ukrainians the Pale, and with someone who, however mostly worked in the fields, the Jews oper- distantly, shared a language and history with ated a large shoe factory, and another that the Kristals and Hendricks of my own fami- made simple and decorative mirrors. They ly. I had also, for the first time in my life, were also involved in a host of professions heard someone pronounce the word “shtetl” and trades: doctors, barbers, druggists, who had actually lived in one. teachers, local officials, shopkeepers. The Now to the postals. “Very very difficult,” neighborhood had clustered around the cus- Dora said, because of the faded, cursive toms house on the Zbruch River, which at handwriting. She studied the first letter, with one time had been the border between the Volochysk postmark and put it aside. Volyn of the Russian Empire, and Galicia of She took up the second one and was able to the Austro-Hungarian Empire. make some headway: “... letters from you. The lively community, Mrs. Voitko said, Would you write me more often? You have had served itself, the surrounding rural area, my address ... Write me if you’re healthy. YEVSHAN – ∏ÇòÄç as well as the Russian border officials and Everyone here is healthy.” She stopped. military officers who resided in a nearby “Lots of non-Yiddish words. Lots of barracks. We then set out to explore this World’s Largest Ukrainian Book & Music Catalogue dialect.” She continued, “Write to us ...” vanished neighborhood. Some of the nar- When Dora had finally given up, I asked For your free copy today, please call row alleys that had been the neighborhood if I could have her phone number in case I streets were still there. The main street of had more questions. But the old fears and the community was a bit wider. On both suspicions persisted, whether of Cossacks, sides were Ukrainian homes; no shops or Nazis or Soviets I could not say. And 1-800-265-9858 offices remained. Music – Books – Videos – Gift Items – Travel Guides though I felt that the warm community of Mrs. Voitko pointed out where there had Volochysk, the community of Ina and Vasyl Stationary – Computer Supplies and much more! been the Jewish council, or local self-gov- and Sasha, posed no threat to her and Fina, I erning authority, as well as the three syna- couldn’t be sure that the remainder of her www.yevshan.com gogues, the post office and several shops. life, in impoverished post-Soviet Ukraine, She indicated the site of the former kinder- would be smooth. “You can reach me garten and the location of two rival Jewish through Volodymyr,” she said, which was clubs, one named for the writer Sholom fair enough. He had a phone, and would Aleichem and Voikos. A former Jewish gen- always know where she is. eral store she frequently used was now a On the way back to Volodymyr’s apart- decrepit shell. The Jewish park, however, ment, Ina turned to me. “I have a friend was now little used but well maintained. whom you should meet. She is a good cook The stone remains of the mikvah, the ortho- and can take good care of the house.” Ina dox synagogue’s ritual bath, were still plain- wanted to be my matchmaker! To my ly visible near the Zbruch River shore. greater surprise, she then told me that she, According to Mrs. Voitko, about 5,000 Jews too, is Jewish! “There are only eight Jews in had lived in this area, which constituted the Volochysk,” she said. “My daughter Yana, majority of Volochysk up until World War my son Matviy and I are three of them. So I II. But they wouldn’t bury their dead here will have trouble finding Jewish spouses for for fear of flooding from the Zbruch River. my children. Do you think you could help Vasyl had already told me that he had them?” heard of three Jewish graveyards in In this one minute of conversation, the Volochysk, but that they were remote from tiny fragment of Jewish Volochysk bal- any roads and inaccessible. Mrs. Voitko looned. Suddenly, Ina became a recogniza- knew how to reach them, however. We bun- ble Jew to me, and in fact appeared with the dled back into the Lada, drove south for familiar tone of a certain Yenta from “Tevye about 10 minutes, and parked at the end of a Tevyel” the play by the Jewish Ukrainian dirt road. Ahead of us lay a steep grading up writer Sholom Aleichem that made to banked railroad tracks. Broadway history as “Fiddler on the Roof.” To my surprise, Mrs. Voitko showed us How many Jews remain in Volochysk? the way up the grading, over the tracks and Well, if only eight, I had already met more down the other side. We continued around than half of them, since I had met Ina’s chil- an undeveloped hill, past several old dren and husband the day before at a picnic. dachas, then up a steep hill looking over the And these Jews, not even enough for a min- valley out of which we had just climbed. yan, the minimum required to found a There, at nearly the crest of the hill, were Jewish religious community, still wished to about 30 badly decayed tombstones with marry Jews. They wanted to remain Jews. Yiddish inscriptions. Most of the writing It turned out that, not only had I been was barely visible, and none of the grave- searching for Jewish Volochysk, but Jewish stones were undamaged by the elements. Volochysk had been looking for me. No. 44 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1999 15

International Chess Tournament in Lviv dedicated to memory of champion by Dr. Orest Popovych as by two residents of Lviv with personal connections to Mr. Popel, Prof. Joseph LVIV – A capacity crowd filled the Kobiv, a friend, and Alexander Popel, a theater of the Lviv chess palace on nephew. September 22, in order to witness the Petro Bezpalko, author of the recently opening ceremonies of the second inter- published book “Chess Players of the national chess tournament to be organ- Ukrainian Diaspora,” read the official ized by the Lviv Regional Chess greetings from the Chess Federation of Federation in memory of Stepan Popel. the city of Kyiv. The concluding speech- The first such “Popel Memorial” had es were delivered by representatives of been held here in 1996. Stepan Popel the diaspora, Dr. Orest Popovych, direc- (1907-1987) was a champion of Lviv, tor of chess activity at the Ukrainian western Ukraine, Paris and eventually, of Sports Federation of the U.S.A. and Ukrainians in North America. Thus, Mr. Canada (USCAK), and, finally, by the Popel’s chess career constitutes a bridge USCAK president Myron Stebelsky. uniting chess players of Ukraine and the They greeted the tournament organizers diaspora. and participants, tying this event to the Seated on the stage of the Lviv chess long-standing traditions of chess excel- palace were the 10 invited tournament lence in the city of Lviv, in which a sig- participants and the directors, arrayed nificant role has been played by the man against a backdrop of huge demonstra- being honored by this tournament, tion chess boards. Stepan Popel. The audience was addressed first by Furthermore, the speakers from the grandmaster Adrian Mykhalchyshyn, diaspora noted with pride and joy the fact president of the Lviv Regional Chess that the Lviv region today is brimming Federation, then by Ivan Yaremko, a with an abundance of exceptional chess journalist and one of the tournament talent among children, and can look for- organizers; by Viktor Kart, the legendary ward to a bright future in chess. coach of the “Lviv school” of chess and chief arbiter of this tournament, as well (Continued on page 16)

Orest Popovych, USCAK chess director, addresses the audience at the opening ceremonies.

At the opening ceremonies in the Lviv chess palace, Myron Stebelsky, USCAK president, is flanked by the two child chess stars, Anya Muzychuk and Andriy Volokytin. To the left is Orest Popovych, who is talking to Oleh Muzychuk, Anya’s father and trainer. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1999 No. 44

EU financial assistance, and developing a EU unveils... national program for adjusting its legisla- (Continued from page 2) tion to EU norms. the European Union’s new approach, As for the west Balkans, the EU report saying that “the main thing is that all six recommends that EU leaders confirm the countries are invited to start negotiations prospect of eventual membership for the in 2000. ... This is an extraordinary signal former Yugoslav states and Albania. But for the political class and, in general, for it says that, in addition to meeting the the whole society in Romania.” usual criteria, those countries will have to Turkey, with its long-strained relations recognize one another’s borders, settle all with the EU, is a special case. The report issues relating to national minorities and recommends that Turkey be made a for- pursue economic integration in a regional mal candidate, thereby giving it the framework. prospect of eventual EU membership. Looking further afield, the report notes But at the same time the EU has declined that relations with Russia, Ukraine, the to open negotiations with Turkey and in Caucasus states and the Maghreb coun- this context points to failings of democ- tries of North Africa are of strategic ratization in that country. importance to the EU. They should go The commission urges Ankara to beyond trade and assistance programs undertake specific steps. These include and include issues such as the fight enhancing domestic political dialogue, against organized crime, drug trafficking, with particular reference to improving and migration and environmental poli- human rights, revising the way it handles cies.

much more. Mr. Hutz is the front man Yara Arts Group... for New York’s popular downtown band (Continued from page 10) Gogol Bordello. their new approach to this traditional Yara Arts Group is a resident company instrument. The evening will feature at the internationally acclaimed La premieres of original compositions by MaMa Experimental Theatre in New members of the trio and group improvi- York. sation pieces. “Harvest: Ukrainian Folk Song Staroviry, an underground hit in Today” is the ninth major event Yara has Yara’s Nova Nomada series, bring their presented with the Ukrainian Institute of unique brand of East European flavored America. ethno-electronics uptown. Staroviry Tickets for “Harvest: Ukrainian Folk combines the talents of Mr. Kytasty (tra- Song Today” are available for each event ditional instruments, vocals), Alex at the door for $20 with discounts for the Kytasty (electronics, sound design) and festival. Participants for the workshop Eugene Hutz (vocals, percussion and should pre-register with Yara. For further general lunacy) to serve up a spicy stew information call (212) 475-6474, e-mail of swirling flutes, driving beats, wailing [email protected] or visit Yara’s website Gypsies, howling wolves and much, at http://www.brama.com/yara/

ed to fight it out in a nine-round single International Chess... round-robin. (Continued from page 15) The tournament was won by Noteworthy among the very young Alexander Motylev (Russia), who scored champions are Anya Muzychuk of Stryi 6.5 points out of a possible 9. Next in line were: 2. Andriy Maksymenko (twice European champion among girls), (Ukraine) – 6 points; 3. Adrian Andriy Volokytin (the under 12 vice- Mykhalchyshyn (Slovenia) – 5.5 points; champion of the world) and Katya Lahno 4-5. Volodymyr Buturyn (Ukraine) and (Ukrainian champion for girls under 10). Suat Atalik (Turkey) – 5 points; 6-8. The latter two live in Lviv. All three have Viktor Zhelandinov, Vitaliy Koziak and recently received financial support from Oleksander Sulypa (all of Ukraine) – 4.5 USCAK to enable them to travel to world points; 9. Orest Popovych (USA) – 2.5 championships as Ukraine’s representa- points; 10. Danilo Polejzar (Slovenia) – 1 tives. point. The tournament competition itself The second Popel Memorial Chess started on September 23 and lasted for Tournament was sponsored by USCAK nine consecutive days, through October and by the local businesses 1. Nine professional chess players – LvivVodoKanal and the Dnister Hotel. international grandmasters and masters, The Lviv chess organization plans to representing Ukraine, Slovenia, Russia stage similar tournaments in the future on and Turkey – as well as Orest Popovych, a regular basis, to maintain the rich chess a FIDE master representing the traditions for which the city of Lviv is Ukrainians of North America, were invit- world famous.

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Chechnya, as a result of which the peaceful Newsbriefs population is also suffering.” (RFE/RL (Continued from page 2) Newsline) United States, the United Kingdom and Kuchma gets title of ‘Honored Crimean’ Russia signed in Budapest in 1994. The sig- natories pledged in that memorandum to SYMFEROPOL – The Presidium of the respect Belarus’s political independence. Crimean Parliament has conferred the title According to Mr. Sharetski, the recently of “Honored Crimean” on President Leonid published Belarus-Russia union treaty draft Kuchma for his services to the Autonomous means the incorporation of Belarus into Republic of Crimea. Mr. Kuchma received Russia. (RFE/RL Newsline) this news on October 23 as he was opening a 236-kilometer pipeline in southern Belarus authorities continue crackdown Crimea, which will provide gas to some 30 MIENSK – Of the 93 people arrested for percent of the peninsula’s population. “We taking part in the opposition’s October 17 have shown that we can keep our word,” “freedom march,” 17 have been sentenced the president commented on the construc- to short prison terms and 19 fined, while 23 tion of the pipeline, which was completed cases have been transferred to municipal in one year under his personal supervision. commissions dealing with minors, accord- (RFE/RL Newsline) ing to a statement by Miensk authorities Yuschenko comments on hryvnia’s slide quoted by Belapan on October 19. The same day, Valery Schukin, one of the KYIV – National Bank of Ukraine march’s organizers, was seized by police, Chairman Viktor Yuschenko said on beaten and put in pre-trial detention. Police October 21 that the bank has fought off an also detained Anatol Lyabedzka, another attack on the national currency, which organizer of the march, but released him slipped below the government trading limit after four hours, ordering him to appear in of 4.6 hryvni to $1 the previous day. Mr. court on October 20. Also, a Miensk court Yuschenko said the attack was prepared by sentenced Yauhen Afnahel of the opposition “Russian and Latvian banks,” adding that it Youth Front, to 15 days in prison for organ- could be even more serious than the “fuel izing the march, despite the fact that Mr. crisis in July-August,” Interfax reported. Afnahel had withdrawn his name from the The NBU chairman noted that there are no list of organizers before the march and did “monetary reasons” for the destabilization not participate in it, according to Belapan. of the financial market. President Leonid On October 25 Belarusian authorities Kuchma commented on the hryvnia’s announced they have instituted criminal recent slide by saying that “money has proceedings “in general” against partici- appeared in Ukraine and people want to pants in the freedom march. So far six peo- play on this.” (RFE/RL Newsline) ple have been jailed in connection with the protest, including Social Democratic Party President speaks on corruption leader Mikola Statkevich, who has been on VINNYTSIA – Speaking on regional a hunger strike since October 17. In a relat- television in Vinnytsia on October 20, ed development, last week authorities President Leonid Kuchma said the situation banned an October 31 march organized by in Ukraine with regard to combating cor- the opposition to commemorate the victims ruption is “far better than in many other of Stalinist terror in the 1930s and 1940s. countries of the world,” Interfax reported. (RFE/RL Newsline) Mr. Kuchma noted that corruption is not a U.S., Russia react to Miensk developments “Ukrainian invention.” At the same time, the president admitted that there are cases PRAGUE – The U.S. State of corruption in Ukraine, “but they are Department on October 18 issued a state- being brought about by the system itself.” ment condemning the violent suppression He added that corruption can be defeated of the freedom march. The U.S. State by introducing economic and administra- Department said the beating and arrests tive changes. “If a state servant is paid of participants in the peaceful march was appropriately, not 100 hrv ($23) a month, another violation by Belarus of its OSCE then I think he will have sufficient wisdom commitments and a “further demonstra- and will not have to deal with such matters tion of the constitutional and political cri- as corruption,” President Kuchma noted. sis” in the country. Meanwhile, Russian (RFE/RL Newsline) Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov said on October 19 that the Miensk “incident” Kuchma offers to share responsibility was Belarus’s domestic matter, adding that Russia will not “intervene” in it. The VINNYTSIA – President Leonid same day the Russian State Duma invited Kuchma also said that if he wins the presi- Belarusian President Alyaksandr dential elections, he will ask the Verkhovna Lukashenka to address Russian lawmak- Rada to create a constructive majority that ers on October 22 in connection with the will share responsibility with the president “recent developments” in Belarus, ITAR- for forming a Cabinet of Ministers. “Then TASS reported. Simultaneously, Russian there will be no mutual accusations, fruit- lawmakers rejected the Yabloko faction’s less discussions in the Parliament, or report- proposal that Belarusian oppositionists ing to the Parliament [on the government’s also be invited to address the lower performance] every week,” Mr. Kuchma house. (RFE/RL Newsline) noted. He also repeated his threat to call for a referendum to create a bicameral legisla- Kyiv criticizes attacks in Chechnya ture if the current Parliament refuses to cooperate with the president after the elec- KYIV – Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs tions. (RFE/RL Newsline) Minister Borys Tarasyuk on October 22 said Ukraine “unambiguously condemns Paybacks not good for hryvnia? the terrorism that has caused the escalation of tension in Russia’s south,” Interfax KYIV – Citing an “informed source” in reported. However, Mr. Tarasyuk added Ukraine’s financial circles, Interfax report- that Ukraine “cannot welcome the indis- ed on October 20 that the volume of cash in criminate character of military action in circulation in the country has increased by 1.23 billion hrv ($570 million) since July 1. According to financial experts, this increase is linked to the government’s effort to pay back wages and pensions before the October 31 presidential elections. The hryv- nia has been officially devalued from 3.95 to $1 (U.S.) to 4.46 to $1 since the begin- ning of July. Street dealers and Ukraine’s interbank currency market have recently quoted the value of Ukraine’s currency at 4.7-4.8 hrv to $1. (RFE/RL Newsline) No. 44 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1999 19

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ILONA SOCHYNSKY PREVIEW OF EVENTS Saturday, November 6 lecture titled “Bloody Saturday in the Soviet OIL PAINTINGS PASTELS DRAWINGS Union: Novocherkassk, 1962,” with Samuel NEW YORK: The Dumka Ukrainian H. Baron, distinguished professor emeritus, SKETCHBOOKS Chorus, in celebration of its 50th anniver- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. sary, is holding a benefit concert at the The lecture will be held in the HURI Ukrainian Institute of America, 2 E. 79th Seminar Room, 1583 Massachusetts Ave., St., at 8 p.m. Featured performers are at 4-6 p.m. Roman Cymbala, tenor; Daria Dragan, mezzo soprano; Natalia Honcharenko, Wednesday, November 10 STUDIO SALE soprano; Yulia Kolisnichenko, soprano; as Friday, November 5 12 – 7 pm well as Eugenia Paley and Leocadia Pelech- CAMBRIDGE, Mass.: The Harvard Snihur, piano. Donation: $20; proceeds to Ukrainian Research Institute presents “A Saturday, November 6 12 – 5 p.m. benefit the Dumka Chorus. Ukrainian Businessman’s Perspective on Privatization” with Olexandr Savruk, direc- 200 EAST 36 STREET/# 10D/NEW YORK NY UTICA, N.Y.: Ukrainian Americans of the tor, Ukrainian Center for Post-Privatization Mohawk Valley will commemorate the 50th Support (UCPPS). The presentation will be anniversary of Ukrainian immigration to held in the HURI Seminar Room, 1583 Previews by appointment Utica and the surrounding area. A banquet Massachusetts Ave., at 5:30-7 p.m. and concert focusing on the heritage and For more information call 212-686-1275 contributions of Ukrainian Americans will Friday, November 12 be held at the Ukrainian Auditorium, 6 PHILADELPHIA: The Ukrainian Cottage Place, at 1 p.m. Tickets: $15, adults; League of Philadelphia presents its first $5, students. For reservations and ticket annual “Beef and Beer Ukrainian-Style information call Wasyl Pilipczuk, (315) Event – Halloween po staromu”; costumes 733-5262, or Mark Falinski, (315) 733- PACKAGES TO UKRAINE are highly recommended. Festivities will 0719. be held at the League Hall, corner of 23rd as low as $ .49 per Lb PASSAIC, N.J.: All are invited to the annu- and Brown streets, (just blocks away from al fall dance (zabava), sponsored by the the Art Museum). The fun starts at 7:30 Passaic Branch of the Ukrainian American p.m. Donation: $10 in advance; $15 at the DNIPRO CO Youth Association (SUM), to be held at the door. Must be 21 to attend; proper ID will NEWARK, NJ PHILADELPHIA CLIFTON, NJ Ukrainian Center, 240 Hope Ave. Featured be required. There will be plenty of free will be the Nove Pokolinnya band from food, soda and beer for all, supplemented 698 Sanford Ave 1801 Cottman Ave 565 Clifton Ave Toronto. Doors open at 8 p.m., dancing by a cash bar, as well as music contests Tel. 973-373-8783 Tel. 215-728-6040 Tel. 973-916-1543 starts at 9 p.m. Tickets, which include one and great prizes. So, come on out and have *Pick up service available cocktail, are $15 in advance or $20 at the some fun! To order tickets and for further door, and may be purchased by calling information, call Lesia Holowchak, (215) (973) 772-3344 or (201) 323-1703; e-mail: 543-9253, or Chrystyna Olearchyk, (609) [email protected]; or by stopping by 795-1937. Proceeds and donations to ben- the Ukrainian Center during evening hours. efit the renovation effort of the hall.

HARTFORD, Conn.: The community is Saturday, November 13 cordially invited to a traditional Embroidery CHICAGO: The Ukrainian Institute of Dance, presented by the Hartford Branch of Modern Art and the Ukrainian Language the Ukrainian National Women’s League of Society are sponsoring a presentation of the America. The dance will be held at the newly published book of poetry by Yuriy Ukrainian National Home, 961 Wethersfield Tarnawsky titled “Yikh Nemaye”. Selected Ave., beginning at 9 p.m. Music will be pro- works will be read by the author and the vided by Ukrainian Souvenir. Tickets: book will be available for sale. The event adults, $15; youth, $10. For table reserva- will take place at the institute, 2320 W. tions call (860) 563-8139 or (860) 956-1862. Chicago Ave., at 7 p.m. For additional infor- Sunday, November 7 mation call (773) 227-5522. Saturday, November 20 DETROIT: The Ukrainian Graduates of Detroit and Windsor will celebrate their 60th NEWARK, N.J.: St. John the Baptist anniversary with a reception followed by a Ukrainian Catholic School is celebrating its luncheon, at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m., respectively, 60th anniversary with a reunion and dance at the Ukrainian Cultural Center on Ryan to be held at St. John’s School gymnasium Road in Warren, Mich. This year seven stu- on Sanford Avenue. All teachers and alumni dents about to enter university will be pre- are cordially invited. Doors open at 7 p.m.; sented, as part of the organization’s raison the program starts at 9 p.m., followed by d’être, with scholarships and bursaries. A dancing. Semi-formal attire. RSVP by “Ukrainian of the Year” as well as a November 6 by calling the Rev. Bohdan “Distinguished Service Award” will be pre- Lukie, (973) 371-1356; fax, (973) 416- sented at the event as part of a long-estab- 0085; e-mail, [email protected]. lished tradition. A musical interlude at the reception will be provided by Dara-Lynn ADVANCE NOTICE Zusko, a student of violin at the University of Windsor and concert-mistress of the Windsor Saturday, February 5, 2000 Symphony, with piano accompaniment by her brother, Darrett Zushko, soloist with the CHICAGO: The Ukrainian Engineers’ WHAT? Macomb and Windsor symphonies. Tickets Society of America, Chicago Branch; the at $25 per person must be reserved in Ukrainian Medical Association of North YOU DON’T HAVE YOUR OWN advance; tickets will not be sold at the door. America, Illinois Branch; and the For reservations call Alberta Cieply, (810) Ukrainian Veterinary Medical Association 758-6086; Ivan Halich, (810) 757-3019; of America and Canada, Chicago Branch – SUBSCRIPTION? Olga Solovey, (313) 274-6319; or Serafina cordially invite Ukrainian girls who are either seniors in high school or freshmen To subscribe to The Ukrainian Weekly, fill out the form below, Marzotto, (519) 948-5743. Tax deductible contributions are welcome in the categories in college to participate in their annual clip it and mail it to: Subscription Department, The Ukrainian Weekly, of patron, $50, and benefactor, $100. banquet and ball with presentation of 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. debutantes at the Chicago Palmer House Monday, November 8 Hilton Hotel. For registration of candi- dates for the presentation and further NAME: ______CAMBRIDGE, Mass.: The Harvard information contact Eugenia Byskosh, NAME: (please type or print) Ukrainian Research Institute is holding a (847) 985-3596, by November 25.

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