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INSIDE:• Ukrainian Educational Council set to mark 50th jubilee — page 8. • The Ukrainian community alive and kicking in Austin, Texas — page 10. • Photo report: Soyuzivka summer season’s winding down — page 12.

Published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal non-profit association Vol. LXXI HE KRAINIANNo. 35 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 EEKLY$1/$2 in Ukraine T UUkraine celebrates 12th anniversary of independenceW with annual military parade Kuchma announces by Roman Woronowycz Kyiv Press Bureau support for a new package KYIV – Yevhen Marchuk became Ukraine’s first minister of defense not of Constitutional changes wearing the epaulets of rank and the uni- by Roman Woronowycz form of Ukraine’s top military com- Kyiv Press Bureau mander to take the kilometer drive down KYIV – Ukraine’s Leonid Kuchma the Khreschatyk to greet the troops under confirmed on August 26 that he could his command when he did so on August support a political system in which a 24 to kick off the annual Independence Day military parade. Ukrainian president was elected by its After a flyover by a squadron of MiG- Parliament. 29 fighter jets, nearly 5,000 troops from Mr. Kuchma’s comments came two all the various segments of Ukraine’s days after the president made a turn in extensive armed forces stood stiffly at his political reform push, when he attention as the former KGB general announced during an Independence reviewed them while standing in a Day speech on August 24 that he was 1970s-era convertible Zil limousine, the near agreement with a cross section of first of a series in events this day mark- parliamentary factions – including ing 12 years since Ukraine declared those in opposition – on a new package independence from Moscow as the of proposed constitutional changes. Soviet Union tumbled into history. “For me the main point is to reach After moving smartly from the vin- AP/Valeriy Soloviov agreement on the fundamental issue tage luxury automobile to the review Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma (right) and Defense Minister Yevhen upon which the reforms were initiated, stand, Mr. Marchuk told the crowd of Marchuk (left) watch the military parade on August 24. that is, on the principle that the govern- some 20,000 onlookers lined up and ment would be formed by a coalition of down Kyiv’s main thoroughfare that the kets and stressed, “The individual is the President Leonid Kuchma, Prime parliamentary factions and lawmaker military parade remained the centerpiece highest value of society and the state.” Minister Viktor Yanukovych, Chairman of groupings,” explained Mr. Kuchma of Independence Day activities because Mr. Marchuk reiterated the position of the Verkhovna Rada Volodymyr Lytvyn during an hour-long speech before a it would reassert the military’s ready the government to move Ukraine into and most of the country’s leadership stood hall filled with his supporters and gov- state and its preparedness to defend the NATO, a change of direction he has alongside Mr. Marchuk as he gave his ernment officials. country’s independence and sovereignty. spurred, and the need for the government address. They listened too, as 5,000 sol- “It is this principle that guarantees “The parade of the armed forces as well as the military to undergo exten- diers filled Kyiv’s downtown area with the government responsibility before socie- demonstrates the high standards of pre- sive reform to pave the way there. words to Ukraine’s national anthem, ty for its success or lack of success. It is paredness,” Mr. Marchuk said. “Ukraine’s armed forces must begin to backed by a 1,000-strong military band. the compromise achieved on this Dressed in a restrained pale green rise to the standards of the North Atlantic It was the first time the words to the between the various political groupings business suit, the recently appointed Alliance, but it must be done within the anthem were sung at an Independence that is most important to me in my sup- defense minister reaffirmed the country’s country’s economic abilities,” explained port for this coordinated draft law,” move towards democracy and free mar- Mr. Marchuk. (Continued on page 3) added Mr. Kuchma. National Deputy Oleksander Moroz, leader of the Socialist faction in the Verkhovna Rada announced on August 21 that his party had met with the presi- Ukrainian World Congress wraps up eighth conclave and elects dent and representatives of his adminis- tration during much of August and were close to agreement on a political Ukrainian National Association president to its board of directors reform draft bill that could lead to con- by Roman Woronowycz belongs, shows the extent to which the term as president of the umbrella organi- stitutional amendments. Mr. Moroz Kyiv Press Bureau UWC has undergone change since its last zation, which represents a considerable explained that the president had conclave, held in Toronto in 1998. It has amount of the Ukrainian diaspora scat- KYIV – Ukrainian World Congress stridently moved from an organization tered across the globe. Mr. Lozynskyj ran dropped demands that presidential elec- delegates meeting in Kyiv on August 18- tions and ones to the Verkhovna Rada focused on North America, Europe and unopposed. Also re-elected was Viktor 21 elected Ukrainian National Associa- Australia to one with a truly world wide Pedenko to the post of general secretary. take place simultaneously and that the tion President Stefan Kaczaraj to the president reserved the right to make breadth. For the first time it includes two Maria Shkambara, previously first board of directors. Mr. Kaczaraj, who has representatives each from the Russian vice president, assumed the post of sec- appointments to the most powerful led the UNA since May 2002, was elect- ministerial posts. Opposition forces had Federation, Georgia, Armenia, ond vice president, while Yevhen Cholij ed to the leadership position on the last Uzbekistan, Kazakstan and Poland. filled her former slot. Olga Danylak, most vehemently opposed these two day of the UWC’s four-day conclave, the points of the president’s original reform The changes underway also were elected to the post of treasurer and eighth of its 35-year history and the first reflected in the more than 100 delegates Bohdan Fedorak, voted in as member-at- plan. ever in Ukraine. Mr. Moroz said that in the new from the Eastern diaspora that took part large, filled out the rest of the Executive The UWC board of directors saw a in this conclave, a considerable increase Board. coordinated draft law, the president considerable expansion in representatives would have the right to appoint only his over the Toronto conclave, where a single Speaking at a press conference at the at this year’s conclave as a reflection of delegate was registered from the Eastern close of the conclave, Mr. Lozynskyj defense minister and his foreign minis- the inroads the organization has made ter, while the prosecutor general, secu- diaspora. emphasized that while he and two other into the former territories of the Soviet “Finally the Ukrainian World rity services head and internal affairs members of the executive body had been Union and its former satellite countries in Congress is becoming representative of minister would be approved by the re-elected to second terms, the organiza- Eastern Europe. Dozens of Ukrainian the distribution within the diaspora as a Verkhovna Rada. He underscored that tion as a whole was undergoing “cardi- organizations that have sprouted in those whole,” noted Mr. Kaczaraj. “the overwhelming majority of provi- nal” changes. regions in the last decade have joined the As was previously reported (see last sions put forward [by an opposing par- “We want the UWC to become a truly UWC, most of them in the last five years. week’s issue of The Weekly), the 246 global organization,” explained Mr. (Continued on page 3) The composition of the new board of delegates from 28 countries re-elected directors, to which Mr. Kaczaraj now Askold Lozynskyj to a second five-year (Continued on page 17) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 No. 35

ANALYSIS NEWSBRIEFSNEWSBRIEFS OUN, UPA come closer Pro-Yushchenko group emerges liamentary-presidential one. (RFE/RL Newsline) KYIV – A meeting of 74 delegates from to official recognition Ukraine’s 24 regions created an all- Kuchma to back new reform plan Ukrainian association called For Ukraine! by Taras Kuzio nerve in Ukrainian society for four reasons. KYIV – Speaking on August 23, the eve RFE/RL Poland, Belarus and Ukraine Report First, criticism of Poles and Poland is For Yuschenko! in Kyiv on August 21, UNIAN reported. Delegates elected Our of Ukraine’s Independence Day, President a far less controversial issue in Ukraine Leonid Kuchma said he is ready to support a The bland statement issued on July 11 Ukraine lawmaker Yurii Yekhanurov to head than criticism of Russians and Russia. new constitutional-reform plan that has been by the presidents of Poland and Ukraine, the association. Mr. Yekhanurov told jour- Russophile centrists and national democ- agreed upon with the opposition, Ukrainian Aleksander Kwasniewski and Leonid nalists that the association is intended to rats both insisted that Polish crimes news agencies reported. “Despite certain Kuchma, respectively, to commemorate help Viktor Yushchenko’s Our Ukraine against Ukrainians had to be condemned drawbacks, I think that this draft should be the 60th anniversary of the Polish- broaden its influence. According to Mr. alongside any criticism of Ukrainian approved by the Verkhovna Rada,” Mr. Yekhanurov, the association will be based Ukrainian conflict in Volyn in 1943 did crimes. Ukrainians, and especially Poles, Kuchma said. “The support of the constitu- on regional “civic centers that want to sup- not go as far as Poland had insisted. believe that they have only ever suffered tional majority of votes [300 votes] has port [Yushchenko’s] initiatives regarding the One of the main issues on which at the hands of others, never themselves already probably been secured for it.” The democratic reconstruction of our country.” Poland pressured Ukraine was to include committing crimes against other peoples. previous day, Mr. Kuchma withdrew the Mr. Yushchenko, who was elected an hon- in the joint statement a denunciation of Ukrainians have been accustomed to political reform draft he submitted to the orary chairman of the association, warned the Organization of Ukrainian being accused of serving in the German Parliament in June. (RFE/RL Newsline) the congress that the political reform pro- Nationalists (OUN) and the Ukrainian police in World War II. Poles meanwhile, posed by President Leonid Kuchma might U.S. president sends letter to Kuchma Insurgent Army (UPA), and to seek to have continued to harbor the myth that be modified in the near future. “The authori- bring members of these organizations, they alone within Europe did not collab- ties might propose that the president be KYIV – A group of U.S. congressional who were allegedly involved in the mas- orate with the Nazis. The June 24 broad- elected in the Parliament by a subjugated, representatives led by Representative Curt sacres of Poles, to justice. cast of the 1+1 television channel’s (con- The statement fails to mention OUN or undemocratic majority,” Mr. Yushchenko Weldon (R-Pa.) met with President Kuchma trolled by the Social Democratic Party- on August 24 and passed on to him a letter UPA. Instead, it condemns atrocities com- said. “In the next few days, we might United) weekly discussion program from U.S. President George W. Bush, mitted against both Ukrainians and Poles, become witnesses to Byzantine politics, “Podviinyi Dokaz,” which was devoted Interfax reported. Rep. Weldon subsequently thereby placing the 1943 conflict within under which the two political reform drafts to the Volyn event, showed how the told journalists that in his letter Bush the framework of a Polish-Ukrainian civil [one proposed by Kuchma and the other by ranks of the German police in Volyn thanked the Ukrainian people for their sup- war (as both sides resided on Polish terri- opposition lawmakers] will be withdrawn were filled by Poles after Ukrainian port in combating terrorism. Mr. Kuchma tory). Poland had pressured Ukraine to from the Constitutional Court, and a third policemen fled to the UPA in 1942-1943. reportedly said at the meeting that Ukraine define the 1943 events as “genocide” draft that is even more Jesuitical [than the The well-known historian Yuriy is ready for broader cooperation with the against Poles, using widely contradictory previous two] will be submitted,” he added. Shapoval pointed out in the discussion United States in all areas. Referring to death tolls of between 30,000 and 100,000 (RFE/RL Newsline) that the ultimate root of the Volyn con- Ukrainian-U.S. relations in his speech on (see RFE/RL Poland, Belarus, and flict lies in the fact that both Ukrainians Compromise on political-reform sought August 23, Mr. Kuchma said, “The logic of Ukraine Report, March 4 and July 8). and Poles looked upon Volyn as their ter- mutual interests, coincidence of strategic The Volyn anniversary touched a raw ritory. This meant that compromise was KYIV – Communist Party leader Petro interests, and common values of democracy impossible, Dr. Shapoval explained. Symonenko and Socialist Party leader and humanism, have inevitably gained the Dr. Taras Kuzio is a resident fellow at Second, Poland overplayed its hand and Oleksander Moroz told journalists on upper hand over emotional and sometimes the Center for Russian and East August 21 that the presidential administra- overly emotional perceptions of ambiguous European Studies, University of Toronto. (Continued on page 15) tion and the opposition are working on a and sometimes non-existing circumstances.” joint bill of amendments to the constitution (RFE/RL Newsline) Interfax reported. Mr. Moroz said that a key Will Kuchma propose innovation is the presidential administra- Russia gives nod to TNK-BP merger tion’s proposal that the Parliament elect the MOSCOW — The Antimonopoly president, but he said on August 23 that he Ministry has given its approval for the “parliamentary republic”? favors of holding direct presidential elec- merger of the Tyumen Oil Company (TNK) tions. Mr. Moroz said on August 23 that the and the Russian assets of British Petroleum by Jan Maksymiuk reform proposal would readily obtain the new political-reform draft suggests that (BP), ITAR-TASS and other Russian media RFE/RL Poland, Belarus and Ukraine Report required 300 votes (Communists plus Parliament propose and confirm all Cabinet reported on August 28. If the merger is Socialists plus pro-presidential majority) ministers except for the defense minister and completed, the resulting company will be Earlier this month, political scientist in the Verkhovna Rada for its approval. the foreign minister, both of whom are to be Russia’s third-largest oil concern. It is Volodymyr Polokhalo, editor-in-chief of “And [Our Ukraine leader Viktor] nominated by the president. The draft expected to begin operations at the end of the Kyiv-based magazine Politychna Yushchenko might become the president reportedly drops President Kuchma’s previ- this year and will operate in Russia, Dumka, held a news conference at which without a problem. Since the importance ous proposal that presidential, parliamentary, Ukraine, Eastern and Central Europe, and he expressed his opinion about the of this post would be diminished, the and local elections be held in the same year. China, ITAR-TASS reported. The deal must reform of Ukraine’s political system pro- post would become a decorative one; it Symonenko said the Communists want the still be approved by the Ukrainian govern- posed this year by President Leonid would lose its political sense,” Mr. current election law to apply to the 2004 ment. (RFE/RL Newsline) Kuchma, the Ukrainska Pravda website Polokhalo summed up. presidential election, but want to reduce the New pipeline across Ukraine pondered reported on August 7. According to this line of argument, the president’s mandate from four to two years. According to Mr. Polokhalo, the polit- president could be elected by the Mr. Symonenko added that a new KYIV – The international consortium for ical-reform proposal is a “shadow politi- Verkhovna Rada, while the Verkhovna Parliament, if elected under a fully propor- developing and managing Ukraine’s gas cal technique” intended primarily to Rada, in turn, if elected according to the tional system, could elect a new president in transportation system, which was registered secure President Kuchma’s immunity current election law (which mixes a pro- 2006. Our Ukraine leader Viktor in Kyiv by Ukraine’s Naftohaz and Russia’s from prosecution after the end of his portional system with a first-past-the- Yushchenko told the August 23-29 issue of Gazprom, is planning to build a new gas presidential tenure and to retain the post system), could be easily controlled Zerkalo Nedeli that a presidential model is socioeconomic and political status quo of by oligarchs, as it is now. more efficient for today’s Ukraine that a par- (Continued on page 14) oligarchic clans in Ukraine. “I feel that the president may agree to Mr. Polokhalo said he believes that making the Parliament the basic center of Mr. Kuchma may considerably modify power,” Polokhalo told Ukrainska Pravda on FOUNDED 1933 his original reform plan – switching from August 15. “Because [Rada Chairman a “presidential-parliamentary” to “parlia- Volodymyr] Lytvyn is loyal [to Kuchma], the THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY mentary-presidential” system – by shift- Parliament is being controlled by [presiden- An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., ing the power balance to the Parliament a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. tial administration chief Viktor] Medved- Yearly subscription rate: $55; for UNA members — $45. and reducing the prerogatives of the pres- chuk.” ident to those of a figurehead. Lawmaker Serhii Holovatyi from the Periodicals postage paid at Parsippany, NJ 07054 and additional mailing offices. (ISSN — 0273-9348) Mr. Polokhalo predicted that Mr. Yulia Tymoshenko Bloc told RFE/RL’s Kuchma may voice such a proposal as Ukrainian Service on August 14 that soon as August 24, Ukraine’s independence The Weekly: UNA: President Kuchma now “has no other Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 anniversary. Mr. Polokhalo added that such way” than proposing a Parliament-cen- a proposal could be accepted by both the tered model of government in Ukraine. Postmaster, send address changes to: Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz Communist Party of Petro Symonenko and Meanwhile, Oleksandr Moroz com- The Ukrainian Weekly Editors: the Socialist Party of Oleksander Moroz, mented to RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service 2200 Route 10 Roman Woronowycz (Kyiv) since both politicians eagerly opt for more that if President Kuchma makes such a P.O. Box 280 Andrew Nynka powers to the Parliament. proposal, the opposition will propose Parsippany, NJ 07054 Ika Koznarska Casanova (part time) Thus, the modified parliamentary- “conducting parliamentary and local elec- tions under a fully proportional system.” The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com Jan Maksymiuk is the Belarus, “Then we can speak about electing the The Ukrainian Weekly, August 31, 2003, No. 35, Vol. LXXI Ukraine and Poland specialist on the president among those proposed by newly Copyright © 2003 The Ukrainian Weekly staff of RFE/RL Newsline. elected lawmakers,” Mr. Moroz added. No. 35 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 3

Suspect in Gongadze murder dies in police custody by Askold Krushelnytsky evidence about the case later this month. But experts can do this. That’s why there killers and so on – when really they are RFE/RL Poland, Belarus and Ukraine Report But now Mr. Honcharov is dead. A are criminologists and specialists at the not bothering with an investigation,” Mr. Ukrainian police official who did not Procurator General’s Office who are Koshiw commented. An independent Ukrainian journalist want to be named confirmed that Mr. obliged by law to carry out this work and Mr. Koshiw’s book, “Beheaded: The group, the Institute for Mass Information Honcharov died on August 1, apparently to compare Honcharov’s handwriting Killing of a Journalist,” is a comprehen- (IMI), reported on August 5 that a person while being transferred by ambulance samples taken while he was giving evi- sive analysis of documents, evidence and regarded as a key suspect in the long-run- from jail to a hospital. He said the cause dence and being kept in jail. They can investigations into the Gongadze case by ning murder case of journalist Heorhii of death was being investigated. say whether he wrote this or not.” Ukrainian authorities as well as journal- Gongadze had himself died in police cus- IMI, which works closely with the Ms. Lazareva said that on August 6 IMI ists. Mr. Koshiw said he has no doubt tody. France-based journalists’ defense group handed a copy of the letter to Deputy Chief that President Kuchma and other high Ihor Honcharov, an alleged gang Reporters Without Borders, said Mr. Prosecutor Viktor Shokin, who was due to officials are connected to Mr. Gongadze’s leader, had been in custody since his Honcharov’s body was cremated on question Mr. Honcharov later this month. death. arrest in May on charges of extortion and August 3, eliminating any chance of an “As far as we know, we are not the murder. “There is more than ample evidence independent autopsy. only ones that have a copy of this letter. for a trial of the president and his associ- Ukraine’s Procurator General According to IMI, Mr. Honcharov had A few other people have copies,” Ms. Sviatoslav Piskun earlier this year said he ates who took part in the kidnapping and passed a 17-page handwritten letter to the Lazareva noted. then the death of Mr. Gongadze,” he stat- believed that Mr. Honcharov was linked group to be opened in the event of his She said the Procurator General’s to the murder of Mr. Gongadze. ed. death. IMI member Alla Lazareva said Office has promised to keep IMI Mr. Koshiw said he believes the accu- An outspoken critic of President informed of developments. the organization has frequently reported sations against Mr. Honcharov were fab- Leonid Kuchma and government corrup- on the Gongadze case and that is why she “Perhaps now that the Procurator ricated and the authorities have no desire tion the journalist disappeared in thinks Mr. Honcharov passed the letter to General’s Office is involved the cause of to find the truth. He added that if Mr. September 2000. His headless corpse them. death will be investigated. At least I hope Honcharov was really cremated, that dis- was later discovered, triggering one of IMI said Mr. Honcharov claimed in so,” she said. “Because either this person plays either poor judgment or an attempt Ukraine’s biggest post-Soviet scandals. the letter to have information about Mr. [Honcharov] really did make all these Nearly four years later, no one has Gongadze’s killers, including audio statements, in which case it’s a truly hor- to prevent the true cause of death from been charged in the murder. A former recordings and a confession that he said rible story, or it’s a fake and therefore we being discovered. bodyguard of Mr. Kuchma – who secret- he had hidden but was willing to reveal need to know who did it and why.” “It shows to me tremendous irrespon- ly recorded the president – released to investigators in the presence of inde- The author of a book about the sibility by the authorities, in this case the excerpts that implicated Mr. Kuchma in pendent witnesses. Mr. Honcharov also Gongadze killing, Jaroslav Koshiw, said police, to so quickly cremate somebody Mr. Gongadze’s disappearance. But predicted he would be murdered by an he doubts that investigators will solve the who died in mysterious circumstances President Kuchma has steadfastly denied official – whose name he gives – and that murder. He noted that in the past investi- and who they were suggesting might any link to the journalist’s disappearance the death would be presented as suicide gators have named and blamed criminals have been a possible witness,” Mr. or death. Ukraine’s political opposition or illness. for Mr. Gongadze’s death but have subse- Koshiw said. “They create a bizarre and independent journalists – as well as Ms. Lazareva says the IMI’s first pri- quently had to admit they were wrong. atmosphere that helps rumors.” many Western governments and groups – ority is to establish whether the letter is “So really, periodically what we’re Mr. Koshiw underscored that he had accused state investigators of delib- genuine. “We’re not certain yet because getting from the authorities is a pretend believes the truth about the Gongadze erately blocking the probe because it we are unable to carry out detailed tests investigation suggesting to the popula- murder will only emerge if Ukraine gets might implicate senior government offi- to confirm its authenticity,” she added. tion that they’re ... [abreast of develop- a government that really wants to build a cials, possibly as high up as the presi- To explain why IMI has already pub- ments], that they are looking for the state based on law and order. dent. But investigators last year identi- lished some excerpts from the letter on fied 13 members of a criminal gang they its website, Ms. Lazareva says, “Our said was led by Mr. Honcharov and position was this: we obtained this infor- which might have knowledge of the mur- mation, we thought that it was of impor- der. Quotable notes tance to the public and therefore we pub- “The phenomenon of the uniformed criminal has reached the scale of a All 13 were apparently former police- licized what we had – although we national epidemic. ... The image of a corrupt law enforcer has become so terribly men and intelligence officers known as blacked out some names, because since commonplace that people fear the uniformed criminal more than the bandit who “werewolves” – the term for former there is a presumption of innocence until routinely breaks the law.” police officials who have turned to crime. he is proved to be a criminal, one should- Procurator General Piskun said he n’t refer to him as such.” — Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma in his Independence Day speech on believed it was likely the so-called She said the IMI “does not have the August 23, as quoted by Ukrainian Television and cited by RFE/RL Newsline. “Honcharov band” killed Mr. Gongadze. technical capability to check the authen- Mr. Honcharov was scheduled to give ticity of Mr. Honcharov’s handwriting.

tions to cast them aside for the sake of the made way for a series of gala concerts at Kuchma announces support... country’s political development. Ukraine celebrates 12th... various venues throughout the city cen- (Continued from page 1) Mr. Kuchma maintained that he contin- (Continued from page 1) ter. A laser show and a huge fireworks liamentary draft bill] had been included” in ued to believe in a two-chamber Parliament display from four different points in the and a reduction in the number of deputies – Day parade. While the Verkhovna Rada the new draft the president now supported. city lit up the nighttime sky in culmina- two ideas that he had originally proposed, sanctioned the music to “Shche Ne While noting that pro-presidential law- tion of the day’s events. but subsequently dropped as he drove for Vmerla Ukraina” several years ago, it makers were fighting to include a provision political compromise. He explained that he only approved the words earlier this year. *** that a parliamentary vote should elect the had decided to focus on the most important Also watching the address were mem- president, Mr. Moroz emphasized that nei- In Sevastopol, home of both the issues: the clear division of opposition and bers of the United States Congress, led by Ukrainian navy and Russia’s Black Sea ther he nor other opposition lawmakers pro-political forces and the development of Rep. Curt Weldon, chairman of the U.S.- would accept such a proposition. lines of political authority and responsibility Ukraine Interparliamentary Caucus, who Fleet – also known for its continued attach- National Deputy Viktor Yushchenko, over the government. traveled to meet with the country’s leader- ment to Moscow – the unveiling of a monu- leader of the Our Ukraine faction, came out He said he had no doubt that the ship and to review its progress as well as ment to Ukrainian Bard Taras Shevchenko against the coordinated draft legislation in a Ukrainian people supported political reform to observe Independence Day celebrations. highlighted Independence Day events. The commentary that appeared in the respected and consolidation – generally in the manner The group, which also included Rep. event was even more noteworthy in that the Kyiv publication, Dzerkalo Tyzhnia, in proposed by the president – and suggested Corrine Brown of Florida, Nidia building of the monument came only after a which he announced that he opposed any that those political forces that wished social Velasquez of New York and Solomon fierce political battle within the city council, type of political model for Ukraine, except a instability were responsible for railroading Ortiz of Texas, met with President which had been divided among three pro- “republican presidential” type of govern- his original reform plan. Kuchma, Prime Minister Yanukovych posed monuments. In addition to Shev- ment, which he called most effective for The president’s speech, which began with and Parliament Chairman Lytvyn. Rep. chenko, the staid municipal body had seri- Ukraine at this point in history. a simile that compared 12 years of Weldon carried a letter from U.S. ously considered Russian Empress Cathe- Mr. Yushchenko, the most popular politi- Ukrainian independence to the 12 months of President George W. Bush, which gave rine II and Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin. cian in Ukraine and an undeclared presiden- a solar cycle, also enumerated 12 items high praise and expressed thanks to the tial hopeful in 2004, said he did not support needed to ensure a solid core for Ukraine’s people of Ukraine for their contribution either the old presidential draft bill or the future well being. Among them Mr. Kuchma in support of the international fight new coordinated version and lambasted his listed: “the sweetness of independence,” fol- against terrorism. Ukraine has supplied Correction Socialist and Communist partners in the lowed by state building; democracy; a nearly 2,000 soldiers to the U.S.-led Last week in a caption beneath a oppositionist political camp for cooperating developed political culture; an effective international stabilization and peace- photo of National Deputy Viktor with the presidential forces. multi-party system; free markets; rule of law keeping force in Iraq. Yushchenko we incorrectly noted that he “It looks like our colleagues are ready to and protection of Ukraine’s citizens; the The letter also expressed gratitude for had received an award during the play their part in the game of division and to individual as the highest value of Ukrainian the way relations had developed between Ukrainian World Congress opening cere- give new imperious powers to their recent life, “not just in the declarations of politi- Washington and Kyiv over the last year mony in Kyiv on October 18. In fact he opponents,” wrote Mr. Yushchenko. cians, but in real life”; active involvement in and that next year would see free and was merely acknowledging a standing Mr. Kuchma seemed to address his soon- global affairs; the spiritual and psychological transparent elections in Ukraine. ovation. The recipient of the award, the to-be campaign opponent when he stated health of society; and the need for the coun- As is usual in Kyiv, a 15-kilometer Yaroslav the Wise Award, was Mary V. during his Independence Day speech that it try to purge itself of a sense of low national run on the downtown streets of the capi- Beck, former mayor of Detroit and a was time for those with large political ambi- self-esteem. tal city followed the parade, which then longtime diaspora activist. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 No. 35 Ukrainian Orthodox and Catholic hierarchs meet in “Fraternal Encounter”

SOUTH BOUND BROOK, N.J. – Responding to the Archbishop Antony, Eastern Eparchy, UOC-U.S.A.; ongoing process of secularization in society; and the challenges and needs of Ukrainian Catholics and Ukrainian Bishop Basil Losten, Stamford Eparchy, UCC; church’s role as the principal teacher and repository of Orthodox in this 21th Century, the hierarchs of the Archbishop Vsevolod, Western Eparchy, UOC-U.S.A.; faith and morality, and as the promoter and guardian of Ukrainian Orthodox and Ukrainian Catholic Churches in Bishop Robert Moskal, St. Josaphat Eparchy, Parma, the sanctity of life. North America – metropolitans, archbishops and bishops – Ohio, UOC; Bishop Severian Yakymyshyn, OSBM, The bishops also discussed the possibility of holding were hosted by Metropolitan Constantine and Archbishops Eparchy of New Westminster, British Columbia, Yukon various joint educational and spiritual conferences for Antony and Vsevolod at a “Fraternal Encounter” on July and Northwest Territories, Canada, UCC; Cornelius the benefit of hierarchs, clergy, seminarians and faithful 11 at St. Andrew the First-called Apostle Ukrainian Pasichny, OSBM, bishop emeritus of Toronto and of both faiths, along with the need to reach out to the Orthodox Center in South Bound Brook, N.J. Eastern Canada, UCC and Bishop Robert Seminak, St. new wave of immigrants from Ukraine. The hierarchs had for some time been discussing the Nicholas Eparchy Chicago, UCC. There was a solid agreement that in spite of the fact possibility and necessity of such a meeting as a means by Other hierarchs of both churches were unable to that there do exist some theological and dogmatic issues which they could come to know one another on more attend this initial meeting because of schedule conflicts that divide the two churches, there is the real possibility than simply a social level. Such an encounter with open or matters of health, but all expressed their support for that the relationship between the two churches on all lev- discussion of ecclesiastical and community issues would such a meeting. els can improve. The bishops expressed the realization most certainly prove to be beneficial for the faithful The encounter began with a moleben invoking the that they are descended from the same spiritual giants of entrusted to the hierarchs’ spiritual care in Christ’s name. guidance of the Holy Spirit, celebrated in St. Andrew early Ukrainian ecclesiastical history and that it is possi- The hierarchs did not gather to form any type of Memorial Church, following which the bishops retired ble to bear witness to God in many common ways. council or conference, but rather, in the realization that to the historic Heindrich Fisher Residence to begin their Having shared matters of mutual concern and there is a fraternity of brethren vested in the grace of discussions. Reflected upon at great length at this first strengthened the bond of fraternal love and respect priestly and episcopal service to the eparchies they stew- fraternal encounter of the Catholic and Orthodox hierar- through prayer and candid discussion, the hierarchs ard in North America. chs were issues common to both Ukrainian Orthodox agreed that such fraternal encounters should continue Participating in the one-day session were: and Catholics, whose parish communities and eparchies and set the date for the next one in early 2004. Metropolitan Constantine, Central Eparchy, the prime took root, grew and developed in North America as far At the conclusion of the sessions, the hierarchs visit- hierarch of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the back as the late 1800s. ed Holy Resurrection Mausoleum and the crypt of U.S.A.; Metropolitan Stefan Soroka, Ukrainian Catholic Addressed in broad terms were relationships with Patriarch Mstyslav, St. Andrew Cemetery, the Ukrainian Archeparchy of Philadelphia; Archbishop Jurij, Eastern Ukrainian communities and organizations in North Cultural Center and Museum, St. Sophia Seminary/UOC Eparchy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Canada; America and Ukraine; the challenges presented by the Library, the bookstore and the Consistory.

Canada’s Victoria Cross winners to be honored in 2004 by Canada Post New Jersey governor CALGARY, Alberta – The Stamp Advisory said: “Our branch has championed the notion of honoring Committee of Canada Post has announced that a stamp Filip Konowal on a Canadian stamp and, as part of that ini- appoints Ukrainian featuring the Victoria Cross will be issued in late tiative, we have always advocated also having stamps that October 2004, recalling all those Canadians who were recognize every Canadian so distinguished.” to Ethnic Advisory Council distinguished with the highest military medal awarded “This announcement by Canada Post is very wel- by the British Empire. come, for it will help Canadians of many different eth- TRENTON, N.J. – Gov. James E. McGreevey has Among them was a Ukrainian Canadian, Filip nic, religious and racial heritages remember what the appointed Ukrainian American Camille Huk of Rutherford Konowal, awarded his Victoria Cross for the valor he Victoria Cross winners endured and suffered in order to to the Ethnic Advisory Council, which was recently reacti- displayed during the Battle for Hill 70, near Lens, secure us in our freedoms,” he continued. “The work vated under his administration. France, in August 1917. done by members of our branch and of the Ukrainian “As a member of the Ethnic Advisory Council, Ms. Huk will bring the same caliber of leadership that she has shown The stamp will feature the medal itself and, in order Canadian Civil Liberties Association has thus helped in her professional life. Her efforts as a representative of the to recognize the many Canadians who were distin- ensure that Filip Konowal’s heroism will not be forgot- Ukrainian community will be an asset to the council and to guished with this honor, the stamp pane will be printed ten.” all ethnic groups throughout the State of New Jersey,” said with the names of all Canadian recipients, among them Mr. Gregorovich also said, “We hope that, in the near Gov. McGreevey, according to a news release issued by his Mr. Konowal. future, the government of Ukraine will likewise honor office on August 14. Commenting on this announcement by Canada Post, the the only Ukrainian Canadian to have ever been so dis- “I’m honored to have an opportunity to serve my com- chairman of the Ukrainian Canadian Civil Liberties tinguished by issuing a Ukrainian stamp specifically in munity once again, as I did when I served on the very first Association and president of Branch 360 of the Royal memory of Filip Konowal, who was the honorary patron Ethnic Advisory Council in the nation, under Gov. Canadian Legion (Konowal Branch), John B. Gregorovich, of our branch.” [Brendan] Byrne,” said Ms. Huk. “We accomplished much in the area of education, establishing a process for accredit- ing foreign language studies, adding our history to the histo- ry of New Jersey, allowing Ukrainian Americans a greater The Ukrainian Weekly Press Fund: July 2003 opportunity to participate in state-sponsored events such as Amount Name City Nestor Kropelnyckyj Warren, Mich. Heritage Festivals and Liberty State Park events. We served $135.00 Serge Polishchuk Jersey City, N.J. Alexander Leskiw East Hanover, N.J. as ombudsmen for our communities.” $100.00 Taras Szmagala Cleveland, Ohio Olga Liskiwskyi-Liss Lathrup Village, Mich. “Governor McGreevey is outstanding in his proactive Ukrainian American Cannon and Marta Paul Whiting, N.J. outreach to the communities of New Jersey. I am so Veterans Post 40 Venice, Fla. Walter Pytlowany Port Richey, Fla. (Copies for Congress) Walter Salmaniw Victoria, B.C. impressed with his commitment, his enthusiasm and open- $55.00 Walter Clebowicz New Britain, Conn. Mychajlo Seredowych Syracuse, N.Y. armed policies, and I am sure we will accomplish much $50.00 Roman Barniak Basking Ridge, N.J. Walter Strzalka Perth Amboy, N.J. more under his administration,” said Ms. Huk. Natalia and Ihor Czernyk New York, N.Y. Maksym Wasyluk Washington, D.C. Ms. Huk, who speaks fluent Ukrainian and Russian, and Taras Kolomeychuk St. Paul, Minn. Philip Witenko New Milford, Conn. has an excellent comprehension of Polish, has extensive Roman Kuropas Warren, Mich. Peter Yewshenko Neshanic Station, N.J. public relations and editorial experience, and is also a pub- George Pryjma Glenview, Ill. Steven Zarichny Cleveland, Ohio $45.00 Jerema Wolosenko Brookline, Mass. Anna Zawadiwsky Parma, Ohio lished writer. Ms. Huk was the national secretary for the $30.00 Henry Bolosky Kingston, Pa. $5.00 Peter Bubna Parma, Ohio National Council of Women of the United States, an organi- $27.00 Maria Polanskyj Matawan, N.J. Julian Chornij Palatine, Ill. zation with over 25,000 members and the past chair of the $25.00 Lidia Bodnar-Cloherty South Boston, Mass. C. Drebych Edison, N.J. New Jersey campaign to endow Ukrainian studies chairs at R. Grodzicky St. Leonard, Quebec Tymish Hankewycz Dobbs Ferry, N.Y. Harvard University. She served as national public relations Jaroslawa Komichak Upper St. Claire, Pa. Michael Hrycak Cranford, N.J. officer of the Ukrainian National Women’s League of W. Melnitchouk Hampton, Va. Orest Hrycak Cranford, N.J. Michael Pazdrey Jersey City, N.J. Merle and Bonnie America. She has also worked also with foreign students Peter Pytel Twin Lakes, Wis. Jurkiewicz Toledo, Ohio from 63 countries. Christyna Rakowsky Lakewood, Ohio Liliana and Bohdan Ms. Huk received a B.A. in English/journalism and is Nestor Rychtyckyj Warren, Mich. Kotys Kendall Park, N.J. working on an M.B.A. from Fairleigh Dickinson University. George P. and Maria Larysa Mykyta Raleigh, N.C. She is director of the Children Are Hope Foundation, which Walchuk Annandale, N.J. Olena Papiz Warren, Mich. serves impoverished children of Ukraine and is the immedi- $20.00 Jarema Didoszak Seaside, Calif. Lydia Pastuszek Sudbury, Mass. John Hrycenko W. Allenhurst, N.J. Kornel Senyk Warren, Mich. ate past president of UNWLA Branch 18 (Bergen-Passaic). Stephen Lukasewycz Duluth, Minn. Myron Swiderski Trenton, N.J. The 45-member Ethnic Advisory Council has been estab- Nestor Scherbey Grand Rapids, Mich. Gertrude Tkachyk Tucson, Ariz. lished within the Department of State. The council makes Andrew Simock Las Vegas, Nev. $1.00 Max Barelka Chandler, Ariz. recommendations to the governor regarding issues related to Irene Sobar Sunnyside, N.Y. TOTAL: $1,373.00 ethnic studies and programs offered in public schools, col- $15.00 Ihor Bemko Edinboro, Pa. leges and the state universities. Boyd Kowal Washington, D.C. Valentina Poletz Minneapolis, Minn. Sincere thanks to all contributors In addition, the council is responsible for increasing the $10.00 Stephen Daisak Freehold, N.J. to The Ukrainian Weekly Press Fund. participation of ethnic organizations in governmental affairs; Eugene Fedorenko Morris Plains, N.J. The Ukrainian Weekly Press Fund is the providing community and social services; promoting ethnic Karolyn Kolankowsky Wappingers Falls, N.Y. sole fund dedicated exclusively to supporting and cultural events; developing policies affecting ethnic Makar Kopanycia Trenton, N.J. neighborhoods; and increasing knowledge and public the work of this publication. awareness of ethnic history and culture. Members are appointed for two-year terms. No. 35 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 5 THE UKRAINIAN NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FORUM Pennsylvania Ukrainian Club Interns complete a successful summer awards scholarships to students at The Ukrainian Weekly

by Ann Matish students must have a parent or guardian who is an active member of the ALIQUIPPA, Pa. – Scholarships total- Ukrainian Club and a UNA policyholder. ing $3,600 were presented to six students A special award was given to the fami- during the third annual scholarship din- ly of the late Walter Drevna in recogni- ner of the Aliquippa Ukrainian Club, St. tion of his many years of service to the Nicholas Branch 120 of the Ukrainian Aliquippa Ukrainian Club as both a loyal National Association. member and longtime officer. Through The recipients were Christopher Holland, his hard work and dedication to the club, Jennifer Refice, Kira Palichat, Michelle Mr. Drevna helped ensure the success of Masley, Valerie Refice and Melissa Reft. the Ukrainian Club, both today and for To be eligible for these scholarships generations to come.

Roxolana Woloszyn and Peter Steciuk at work on a project at The Weekly. PARSIPPANY, N.J. – The Ukrainian non-governmental organizations. Weekly this summer was fortunate to Mr. Steciuk, 22, is a graduate of have a pair of interns on its editorial Harvard University, where he earned a staff: Roxolana Woloszyn of Maplewood, B.A. in government magna cum laude N.J., and Peter Steciuk of Convent and a Citation in Ukrainian. He has been Station, N.J. accepted to Harvard Law School, but has Having joined us in late summer 2000, deferred his admission to 2004, after he Mr. Steciuk has been our summer intern completes his 2003-2004 Fulbright stint Seen during the presentation of an award to the family of Walter Drevna in ever since (with time off for such things in Ukraine. recognition of his contributions to the Aliquippa Ukrainian Club are: (from left) as running Plast camps – he was camp The newcomer to our summer staff Helen Drevna, Michael Komichak, Eli Matiash, Jemie Yurcina and Mark director for yunaky at the Vovcha Tropa was Ms. Woloszyn, 19, a sophomore Szedny. campground and program coordinator of majoring in English at the University of Morskyi Tabir during the summer of Miami in Coral Gables, Fla. Ms. 2003). Woloszyn’s career goal is to work as an ATTENTION ARTISTS! Mr. Steciuk is also a veteran of The editor in the field of publishing. During 2003-2004 CHRISTMAS CARD PROJECT Weekly’s 2001 and 2002 “Year in her internship at The Weekly, Ms. Review” issues. In September Mr. Woloszyn inaugurated “The News from Oksana Trytjak UNA Special Projects Steciuk will be off to Ukraine on a Here” column and worked on various and Fraternal Activities Coordinator Fulbright Grant to study and work with other projects at the paper. It’s August and we are thinking about Christmas already. The UNA is begin- ning its work on collecting artwork from Ukrainian artists who wish to participate in the annual UNA Celebrate Ukraine’s Christmas Card Project. Over the years UNA has been fortunate in hav- historic achievement: ing over 30 artists participate in this project. We will be accepting works the rebirth of its independence from artists for reproduction that have a traditional Ukrainian Christmas theme. In the past artists contributed works in diverse genres including oil, watercolor, tempera, graphics, wood- cuts, batik, ceramic tile, mixed media and others which added interest and variety to the collection.

In publishing the Christmas cards the UNA wishes to promote traditional Ukrainian art and encourage and popularize Ukrainian artists. This year again the UNA will publish over 120,000 cards that will be distributed throughout the U.S.A., Canada and Ukraine.

All proceeds from the UNA Christmas Card Project will be donated to support the Renaissance of Soyuzivka and to assist the Ukrainian National Foundation, “Ukrainethe 288-page Lives!” book created by the UNA in 1992 to help promote humanitarian, cultural and educa- published by The Ukrainian Weekly. tional programs in the U.S.A., Canada and Ukraine. The Ukrainian National Foundation maintains a 501 (c) (3) status making all donations tax-exempt. Price of $15 includes shipping and handling. The UNA looks forward to this year’s Christmas Card Project and welcomes all To order now call 973-292-9800, ext. 3042, participants. Please submit either a slide, photo or original work that can be reproduced and mail to the UNA Home Office no later than September 30, 2003. or send mail orders to: Please make all inquiries to my attention: Oksana Trytjak, Special Projects. The Ukrainian Weekly, Subscription Department, 2200 Route 10, P. O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. UNA, 2200 Route 10, Parsippany, NJ 07054, Tel: 973 292-9800 or 800 253-9862. 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 No. 35

NEWS AND VIEWS THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY Are you ready? Kazimir Malevich at the Guggenheim The Kazimir Malevich exhibit at the ing. As this issue of The Ukrainian Weekly goes to press on Friday, August 29 (the issue Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, Soon, however, probably through the date is Sunday, but we print on Friday), the Labor Day holiday weekend begins. “Kazimir Malevich: Suprematism,” influence of Futurism, his pure forms With it begins what is traditionally considered the last weekend of the summer sea- opened on May 13, following its critical- attain another feature: dynamism and son. So, one more last trip to the mountains, a last dance at Soyuzivka, a last dip in ly acclaimed presentation at the more variegated colors. This creative the ocean – and then it’s off to school for many of our readers or their kids (the latter Deutsche Guggenheim Berlin. The exhi- process and transformation is wonderful- are probably responsible for that collective groan we just heard out there…). bition brings together approximately 120 ly presented through several celebrated But the arrival of September signals more than just the beginning of the paintings, drawings, and objects drawn but rarely exhibited works. This includes school year. It also marks the start of a new year of community life as diverse from major public and private collections the original version of the famous (or organizations resume their activities, meetings and functions after the summer from around the world and is sponsored infamous) “Black Square.” hiatus. So, it’s back to Ukrainian school, back to Plast and SUM activities, back in New York by Alfa Bank. In all, there are over 100 pieces in this to bandura and Ukrainian folk dance lessons, back to team sports practices, etc. The exhibition, which was co-organ- exhibit, including reconstructions of his And, even for those without kids, the end of summer/beginning of fall is the ized by the Solomon R. Guggenheim Suprematist architectural models (so- starting point for organizational activity of all kinds, whether it’s charitable, pro- Museum and The Menil Collection, called “architektons”), as well as some fessional, political or religious – you name it. Houston, is curated by Matthew Drutt Suprematist-inspired porcelain teacups Before you know it, we’ll all be back to our regular school year routines – with and will be on view at the Guggenheim and saucers. more activities than we think we have time for. Sometimes just driving from one through September 7. Following the Malevich was born and trained near activity to another seems like hard work, and yet we do it – and we do it willingly Guggenheim presentation the exhibition Kyiv, referred to himself as a Ukrainian, – because we realize it is for the good of our children, and it benefits us and our will be presented at The Menil Collection spent most of his career in Russia and community at large. We know the importance of the enrichment such activities from October 3, 2003, through January had his last solo exhibit (of which he had provide and we value our community for giving us these unique opportunities. 11, 2004. only five) in Kyiv (1930). In the late Or do we? 1920s, Ukrainian Futurist journals pub- by Oleh S. Ilnytzkyj Think about it: are you content to merely serve as the chauffeur for your kids? lished 14 of his articles on the theory and Do you just drop the kids off without so much as a thought about who is running NEW YORK – Kazimir Malevich’s history of art. these myriad activities? Do you attend community functions as an observer, as reductive and abstract art, which goes Jean-Claude Marcadé, in an article someone who’s just along for the ride? under the term Suprematism, is so bereft that appears in the very nice catalog Why not make this year different? Why not make a resolution for the new of graspable “ideas,” familiar images and (edited by Matthew Drutt), to the exhibit, school year to get involved, to really contribute of yourself to the activities and worldly objects that it might very well “Kazimir Malevich: Suprematism,” calls organizations that are such a key part of our community life – and of such price- create its own kind of disturbance in any Malevich a “Polish-Ukrainian-Russian” less value to both our younger and older generations? viewer overly anchored in mimetic art painter and notes the “Ukrainian expres- This year, why not volunteer to run or help run a project, instead of waiting and “reality.” Not only are there almost sions” in his writings. Most other refer- for that phone call soliciting assistance or, what’s even more likely, hoping that no real-world objects to be found in this ences, however, see no need to prob- “someone” will be there to do the work? Why not call the PTA president and vol- exhibit of paintings and drawing, but the lematize his nationality or cultural attri- unteer for a fund-raising activity? Why not call a youth counselor and offer to traditional perspectives and dimensions bution, speaking of Malevich simply as a help supervise an activity? Why not sign up to prepare the parish coffee hour (whether of 19th century art or “Russian”; the audio tour to this exhibit after Sunday liturgy? In short: must we always wait to be asked to pitch in? And, Hollywood cinema) are missing, makes reference to his “Russian roots,” by the way, if you’re not involved don’t expect that your kids will be involved in replaced with a strange visual logic made and Matthew Drutt clearly cannot distin- community life. of flat planes and simple geometric forms guish between Ukrainian and Russian For far too many of us, community life is something that is a given, that will such as crosses, squares and circles. sources, since he treats a Ukrainian com- always be there with or without our involvement and assistance. Meanwhile, the Malevich strove for an art that would mentary on Malevich (page 262 of the truth is that nothing could be farther from the truth. The community is each and be universally comprehensible, but his catalog) as if it were Russian every one of us. Thus, each and every one of us should be ready and willing to contemporaries, not conversant with his (“Radians’ke mystetstvo” becomes roll up his or her sleeves and get involved. new painterly language, tended to see this “Radziansko mistetstvo”). So, now that you’ve had a summer respite, that you’re relaxed, refreshed and type of work as a “sermon of nothingness While none of this ultimately detracts recharged, it’s time to regroup and resume our community activism. Are you and destruction” (Alexandre Benois). from a truly excellent exhibit, it is sad ready to do your part? Today, Malevich is obviously not very that, more than a decade after the col- shocking and, moreover, universally rec- lapse of the Soviet Union, there is still so ognized for the breakthrough he helped little sophistication on questions that initiate in the development of 20th centu- relate to the cultural heritage of the Sept. ry non-objective art. His works mark a Russian Empire. Even as facts betray Turning the pages back... pivotal moment when art from Paris to how woefully inadequate and crude the Kharkiv overturned centuries of conven- national term “Russian” is for much of 2 tion in order to reinvent for itself a new the culture production of the empire, art logic and ontology. With almost a whole historians continue to use it without any caveat. 1996 The hryvnia, Ukraine’s new national currency, debuted on century of the new art behind us, the rev- the streets of Kyiv on Monday morning, September 2, 1996, olutionary nature of Malevich is easy to *** reported our Kyiv correspondent Marta Kolomayets. She overlook, but, on the other hand, the aes- noted that on the first day of the long-awaited monetary thetic impact of his shapes and colors is Dr. Oleh Ilnytzkyj is a full professor in reform, many residents combed the city looking for open banks and currency probably stronger now than ever before. the department of modern languages and exchanges to trade in their old karbovantsi for the new, multi-colored bills. Malevich’s exhibit at the Guggenheim cultural studies at the University of Following are excerpts from Ms. Kolomayets’ report on the hryvnia’s debut. Museum in New York City, which runs Alberta, where he teaches courses in ... Although pensions and wages were paid out to senior citizens and state sector until September 7, is not a retrospective Ukrainian language and literature. His employees in crisp new hryvni and shiny kopiyky (coins) on Monday morning, work- but a rather narrowly focused investiga- 1997 book, “Ukrainian Futurism, 1914- ers in the private sector, tourists and foreigners waited in long lines to change karbo- tion of the historical moment that gave 1930: An Historical and Critical Study” vantsi and dollars into the new currency. birth to Suprematism, with the magnifi- won the 1997 Best Book of the Year There was no sense of panic on the streets, but long lines formed at the post office, cent compositions from 1915 serving as Award from the American Association of where pensioners first lined up to collect their measly monthly allotment (the average the highlight. Ukrainian Studies and will shortly pension is a little over 4 million karbovantsi, or 40 hryvni (hrv), which amounts to First we see the influence of Cubism appear in a Ukrainian translation. Prof. less than $25 per month and then lined up at another window to trade in their karbo- on Malevich, then his struggle (captured Ilnytzkyj’s “A Concordance to the Poetic vantsi (also known as coupons) for new hryvni. by pencil drawings) to develop an essen- Works of Taras Shevchenko” (2001), a “I’ve been here for three hours,” said Olha Paziak, 65, a retired teacher of Ukrainian tialist vocabulary consisting of painting’s four-volume work co-authored with Dr. language at Kyiv State University, who strolled around the post office, waiting to collect basic elements (geometry, colors, flat George Hawrysch, was also awarded a her pension. “Although the government has assured us that we won’t be cheated with this planes). His success emerges initially as shared 2003 Best Book of the Year Award monetary reform, why take a chance,” she said as she waited for her husband to exchange a kind of monumental non-objective sta- from the American Association of their life’s savings of 50 million karbovantsi to 500 hrv, which is less than $300. sis, with black and white forms dominat- Ukrainian Studies. “Oohh, they are nice,” she exclaimed as her husband brought a stack of new bills for her to examine. “And they feel like real money, not just plain paper,” she said. The new currency, in effect, slashes five zeroes off the karbovanets and brings to an end an era when every Ukrainian could call himself a millionaire. A friendly reminder It seems that the new currency is already having a psychological effect on If you have not yet sent in your remittance for the first volume Ukrainian citizens. Many stood in line examining the portraits of historical leaders – of “The Ukrainian Weekly 2000,” please do so as soon as possible. Prince Volodymyr the Great and Hetman Bohdan Khmelnytsky, who appear on the 1 hrv and 5 hrv notes, respectively – and holding the bills up to the light to see the The book’s price is $15. Please send checks for that amount watermark and other symbols that should eliminate easy counterfeiting. (plus any additional sum you may designate as a donation “I’d like to see Shevchenko, but my pension is too low,” joked one elderly gentleman, to The Ukrainian Weekly Press Fund) to: reviewing the hryvni he received. (Ukraine’s national bard Taras Shevchenko appears on the The Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. (Continued on page 15) No. 35 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 7 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Faces and Places – clearly contrary to some international Forced repatriation of WWII laws – of displaced persons and refugees by Myron B. Kuropas was discussed at length at the United Ukrainian DPs hurt diaspora Nations in January 1946, and considered Dear Editor: incompatible with the ideas of free socie- ty and democracy. Ukrainians, quite understandably, were Therefore, official U.S. policy in very disappointed when in May/June occupied Germany changed, leading to Why can’t they be like us? 1919 a 100,000-strong Polish army, very more humanitarian treatment of the We’ve all wondered about our brothers Another striking feature of post-Soviet well equipped by the French, organized refuges and DP’s under their jurisdiction. and sisters in and from Ukraine. They’re society “is the juxtaposition of profound in France, and led by Gen. Haller, inter- It is worth noting, that the French did it, different. Different attitudes and values. distrust of, and anger at the authorities, with vened against the struggling Ukrainian- as a matter of principle, almost a year Different mindset. Different behavior. the contradictory feeling of dependence, Galician Army (UHA). This army was earlier, and Ukrainians were the major Not all of them, of course, but many, and the belief that ‘someone up there’ ought supposed to fight only the Bolsheviks, beneficiaries. One thing is clear: had the especially the older ones. They appear arro- to make the right decisions and set things rather than Ukrainians, and as such was principle of forced repatriation prevailed gant. Cynical. Somewhat morose with a right.” given permission to cross the territory of then in occupied Germany the flourish- penchant for dissimulation. When they “Closely related to feelings of depend- the German Reich in order to reach the ing Ukrainian diaspora of today would come here, most want little to do with us or ence is the lack of individual autonomy. existing front line in East Galicia. But hardly have been possible. our community. Soviet citizens were used to expecting this is all old history, and illustrates well We’re not alone in our assessment. directives from authorities. Thus they have the difficulties and handicaps that Peter Hrycak Lithuanians, Estonians, Latvians, Arme- little experience in taking initiative and Ukrainians had to overcome in their fight Cranford, N.J. nians, even Jews in this country will tell responsibility.” Problems can be readily for national independence. you the same thing. identified but few solutions are offered. “In However, on one more recent occa- If the Soviets did little else well, they did the past, once a problem has been identified sion, the French attitude changed consid- manage, it seems, to successfully create a and someone else blamed for it, all attempts erably, and they treated Ukrainians more The Ukrainian Museum new human being, Homo Sovieticus, who at problem resolution would cease.” favorably, and with all due respect as an in order to survive in Soviet society, would An inability to seek communal solutions important ethnic group they encountered think one thing, say another, and do a third. is a function of post-Soviet difficulties in in New York nearing completion Survival meant beating the system, not fol- evaluating reality. “In the Soviet Union, the when they occupied Germany in the Dear Editor: spring of 1945. lowing the rules, na levo as it were. This individual was never expected to make This author remembers how on April Thank you for your timely editorial was morally acceptable because the system observations, draw conclusions, and decide 20, 1945, French Foreign Legion troups about The Ukrainian Museum (July 13). itself was corrupt. For some, this attitude what the truth is.” That was the prerogative entered the university town of Tübingen Those who happen to be in New York had carried over to the United States. of the state which defined reality according Few people worked hard in the Soviet to political considerations. Small wonder and behaved with due restraint and even City on Sixth Street will see that the Union because there was little incentive to that some people in the former Soviet some sympathy and compassion towards brick and glass facade of the new muse- do so. “We pretend to work, they pretend to Union are disoriented, “unable to distin- the local population. It is worth noting um building has taken shape. pay us,” was a common refrain. Alcoholism guish facts from rumors, wishful thinking, that the French authorities recognized When I passed by recently, the gate was rampant. One Soviet comic pro- paranoid explanations, and disinformation.” Ukrainians right away as a separate eth- was ajar and I looked in. I was amazed to nic group worthy of being treating with claimed: “Anyone who comes to work One of the more debilitating features of see the large sun-lit foyer, the staircase, sober is a spy.” the post-Soviet psyche is the kind of arro- respect and as a separate nationality. This and the sheetrocked walls of the galleries was done in spite of the attempts of the Given the many differences between gance and posturing which is the result of a beyond. I traveled home to New Jersey “us” and “them,” are we doomed to remain feeling of inadequacy. “It is difficult for for- local Poles to be allowed to treat in a mood of elation and excitement. Ukrainians as disgruntled former Polish estranged? It’s too early to tell but at least mer Soviet citizens to work toward a com- After all these years, the numerous “we” can become more sensitive to “them” mon goal when everyone feels personally citizens, and otherwise to intimidate them fund-raising campaigns, the membership as suspected former collaborationists. if we have a better understanding of how inadequate for the perceived job because of dues, the Stride-and-Ride events, the and why they became what they are. a lack of experience with assuming respon- It took the American authorities, in silent auctions, the “makivnyky” (poppy- their zone of occupation, several more Dr. Voldemars Gulens, a Latvian sibility, risk-taking, or decision-making.” seed rolls) and Christmas tree decora- Canadian psychiatrist who has studied This inadequacy, however, is never admit- months to come to the same conclusion: tions from Ukrainian Museum bazaars that Ukrainians deserved to be treated as the Soviet personality and published his ted. On the contrary. Pretense, arrogance that mother unfailingly bought for us, the an important (because of their numbers) conclusions in an article titled and denial are common defense mecha- museum building is a reality. and separate ethnic group. “Distortions in Personality Development nisms. It is there for us and for our children, In addition, the French from the very in Individuals Emerging From a Long- Having experienced empty slogans and and we are very proud to be a part of it. beginning announced their opposition to Term Totalitarian Regime” offers some the corruption of all personal and common the forced repatriation of civilians (that We are happy to have helped (in our clues. His study, which appeared in the ideals, many post-Soviet citizens have diffi- is, of DPs and refugees) under their juris- small way) to build it. fall 1995 issue of the Journal of Baltic culties accepting altruism, especially from diction, of people suspected to be Soviet Studies, begins with the premise that “in outsiders. “All foreign aid is assumed to be Olenka Terleckyj Soviet citizens we witness major distor- given for purely selfish, self-serving, ulteri- citizens, or claimed by the Soviet Union Bloomfield, N.J. to be their citizens, to the Soviet authori- tions in psychological make-up brought or motives,” writes Dr. Gulens. This atti- about by their being born into, growing tude, in turn, makes it difficult for them to ties. Such an attitude, in those hectic up in, and forming a family in a totalitar- be appreciative of assistance, to simply say times, was of very great practical signifi- ian society. The distortions involve the “thank you.” cance to all Ukrainians living in occu- very core of the individual affecting not And finally, there is anger. “Individuals pied Germany. Still no resolution only his or her constant self-sentiment who have experienced a lifetime of humili- It was all the more significant because and attitude to life and to society, but ation, harassment, persecution, injustice and the American authorities, in their zones of on uniting UACC and UCCA also his or her orientation to change.” betrayal develop an understandable sense of occupation, at first adopted the policy of Dear Editor: Not surprisingly, these distortions seri- outrage.” forced repatriation in principle, saying to In The Ukrainian Weekly on July 27 ously impair the ability of former Soviet Dr. Gulens offers many more insights the people involved “if you did nothing Bohdan Kandiuk, in his letter titled “Our citizens to respond constructively to the into post-Soviet society but suggests that wrong, nothing bad is going to happen to community must have unity,” expressed his many economic, sociological and politi- more study is needed to assess the damage. you, but go you must.” The author heard concern about the existence of two organi- cal changes in their new national order. “The forces that have deformed the person- this personally from the area command- zations, the Ukrainian Congress Committee One of the more obvious characteris- ality of the Soviet citizen are complex and ing officer. This was the area in the of America and the Ukrainian American tics of the post-Soviet individual seems long standing. The damage is so pervasive American occupied zone in central Coordinating Council, instead of one. to be deep depression, writes Dr. Gulens. that one can entertain the idea that it con- Vienna where the author happened to be I wish to remind readers that in May “When questioned about their personal tributed significantly to the collapse of the in December 1945 on family business. 2001 a special meeting was held of the outlook on life, they reply with deep Soviet empire.” Only with great reluctance on the part of Ukrainian Congress Committee of sighs, shrugs, and expressions of hope- He concludes that “the evident differ- the zonal authorities was the author given America and the Ukrainian American lessness and helplessness. The message ences between ‘them’ and 'us’ are mani- the Interzonal Pass, to permit him to Coordinating Council, with many organi- is that of a bleak outlook on life and not festations of deep psychological distor- come back to Tübingen, supposedly to zations, both those belonging to either being masters of their own fate.” People tions in personality and social relations continue his studies. the UCCA or the UACC and those out- who are chronically depressed find it dif- that have arisen from decades of humilia- It is well known that in 1945 side these bodies, in attendance. ficult to respond to new information and tion, harassment, persecution and betray- American local authorities in occupied At this meeting a special committee demands for changes. Many who once al. Damage to conscience formation and Germany tried on several occasions to led by Dr. Julian Kulas was elected in believed that independence would bring function has led to severe impairment in use force to load Ukrainian DP’s on to order to create one Ukrainian American a better life have become disillusioned. morality, altruism and fairness.” waiting trucks, in order to deliver them representation. They are less likely to participate in the Little of what Dr. Gulens writes is espe- to the Soviet authorities (Mannheim, Most of the attendees agreed that this political process believing that no matter cially encouraging. His perceptions, howev- Kempten, for example). Only successful was a way to end the crisis and create a how they vote, the corrupt will always er, ring true and offer a kind of cushion resistance on the part of the people so new body that would speak with one triumph. With little hope for the future, against overreaction when “they” do to “us” mishandled, and fear of bad publicity, voice. It is regrettable to note that so far “priority is given to satisfaction of per- what we would not want to do to them. prevented this handing over to the Soviet nothing has been done. sonal momentary needs, without consid- authorities from being carried out as ering one’s own long-term goals, the intended. Dr. Roman Baranowskyj Myron Kuropas’ e-mail address is: feelings of others, or societal benefits.” The policy of compulsory repatriation Kerhonkson, N.Y. [email protected]. 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 No. 35 Ukrainian American Educational Council prepares to mark its 50th jubilee by George Gajecky Dr. Eugene Fedorenko (1983 to the pres- ent). NEW YORK – Many Ukrainian The network of Ukrainian Saturday Americans went to Saturday school them- schools stretches from Boston to Kent, selves or knew of others who attended. Wash. After attending classes from They missed the Saturday cartoons but usu- ally took part in dance festivals, attended kindergarten through grade 12 and pass- Plast and SUM camps, and had interesting ing a comprehensive exam, students are summer vacations. They could also com- honored at a festive banquet. Over municate with their grandparents and went 30,000 young Ukrainians have studied at to Ukraine to visit their relatives. these schools, and over 7,000 have grad- All these schools belonged to an organi- uated. Many graduates work in responsi- zation called the Educational Council of the ble positions here in the United States Ukrainian Congress Committee of America and also in Ukraine for various govern- It has coordinated programs, supplied text- ment organizations or American busi- books, set curriculum guidelines and trained nesses. Some graduates get credits for teachers for the last 50 years – since 1953. their Ukrainian studies at local universi- In its heyday, the Educational Council ties upon passing qualifying exams. comprised over 60 schools with over The Ridna Shkola journal appears three 6,000 students. Now its member-schools times a year. The articles deal with sub- number 35 with 2,600 students and jects helpful to teachers, current events in teachers. The Educational Council per- Ukraine and events of historical signifi- forms the necessary task of centralizing cance. The journal is very popular in and guiding Ukrainian private education, Ukraine, where hundreds of schools use it establishing standards and goals for the in their instruction. It is also a bridge to schools, and providing standardized final educators in Ukraine that informs them of Members of the Educational Council are pictured at the Ukrainian National exams. Some schools have a full 12-year events in the United States. Many dozens Association’s Soyuzivka resort in 1986. program, while others finish with 11th of letters arrive from schools and educa- grade. Others only have eight grades and tional institutions, reporting on their activ- N.J., to honor the teachers who worked space in the book or send greetings to the their students have to complete their edu- ities and asking for help with textbooks for many years in this institution. Educational Council’s teachers. cation elsewhere. and literary reading materials. Also, a jubilee book will be published For further information, readers may The whole system has undergone gener- This year, 2003, marks the 50th to highlight the histories of the many contact: Ukrainian Educational Council, ational changes along with conceptual ones. anniversary of the Educational Council. schools that belong to the Educational P.O. Box 391, Cooper Station, NY The old “veterans” of schools in Europe On October 25, a gala celebration will be Council. Institutions, businesses and 10276; telephone, (212) 477-1200; fax, have mostly passed on or retired, and mem- held at the Ramada Inn in East Hanover, individuals may purchase advertising (212) 777-7201. bers of the younger generation who came here in the 1950s are now in control. In the meantime, a “new wave” of immi- grants from Ukraine arrived with their own problems and expectations. These issues and changes are discussed annually at regional and national teachers conferences like those in Rochester in June 2001 and Cleveland in June 2002. Many problems have been resolved. For instance, many teachers are recent immigrants even though the schools are not overflowing with the children of new arrivals. New techniques of teaching are being tried out – using the computer, and various new media, and introducing term papers and projects. Younger teachers are introduced as teacher’s aides and can complete their edu- cation at teacher seminars offered during the summer at Soyuzivka since 1985. New textbooks are being printed incor- porating the history of modern Ukraine, Ukrainian literature of the 1990s and cur- Participants of a Ukrainian teachers conference held in Rochester, N.Y., in June 2001. rent events. Students are asked to partici- pate in pen-pal correspondence with peers in Ukraine and commemoration services of the Famine-Genocide in addition to prepar- ing concerts in honor of Taras Shevchenko or in celebration of the “Yalynka.” The Educational Council was founded in 1953 when 22 schools decided to form a central body. Prof. Edward Zarskyi served as its first president in 1953-1954. He was followed by Volodymyr Kalyna (1954-1961). Prof. Zarsky then served again in 1961-1977. Then came Prof. Roman Drazhniowsky (1977-1983) and

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Editorial – 3049, 3063, 3069 Administration – 3041 Advertising – 3040 Subscriptions – 3042 Production – 3052 Participants of a Ukrainian teachers conference held in Cleveland, Ohio, in June 2002. No. 35 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 9

UMANA holds its 37th Scientific Convention in Chicago CHICAGO – The Ukrainian Medical in Ukraine, as well as the United States, Association of North America (UMANA) describing recent trends and the impact held its 37th Scientific Convention and of medications and life style changes on 30th Assembly of Delegates on June 18- the development of this malady. 22, at the Allerton Crowne Plaza Hotel in Ihor Jastrembsky, D.V.M., approached Chicago. Ukrainian health care profes- the problem of infectious diseases from sionals from throughout the United States the standpoint of illnesses that can be and Canada gathered on the “Magnificent spread from household pets and wild ani- Mile” to exchange the latest information mals to the human organism, and what regarding “Infectious Diseases in the New can be done to prevent such encounters. Millennium.” The keynote speaker and special guest The conference and assembly are bien- of the conference was John R. La nial functions of UMANA, held in various Montagne, Ph.D., deputy director of the cities easily accessible to the association’s National Institute of Allergy and members. In addition to allowing col- Infectious Disease (NIAID) at the leagues to meet socially, the Scientific National Institutes of Health. Invited by Conference targets issues of importance to his classmate, UMANA’s Editor-in-Chief the general membership. The curriculum Roman Worobec, Ph.D., Dr. La Montagne and faculty are chosen with the goal of presented a perspective on infectious dis- informing the confreres at a professional, eases from the vantage point of the lead- current and up-to-date level. The Assembly ing governmental institute of health care. of Delegates is the highest administrative Dr. La Montagne received his Ph.D. in body of UMANA, fulfilling its responsi- microbiology from Tulane University in bilities at the business meeting. 1971 and has devoted his career to the intri- Ingalls Hospital, in Harvey Ill., co- cate relationship between infectious organ- hosted the sessions, allowing each isms and their effects on the human condi- attendee to obtain up to 10 Category I tion. He was chief influenza officer at credits of Continuing Medical Education NIAID for nearly a decade, and then organ- applicable to the AMA Physician ized the extramural AIDS program, serving Recognition Award. as director in 1985-1987. He then was UMANA’s Immediate Past President Dr. Ihor Voyevidka (left) with newly elected The convention opened with a recep- named director of the Microbiology and President Dr. Bohdan Iwanetz. tion on Wednesday evening, allowing Infectious Disease Program NIAID, finally the daily affairs of the association. in the air. newly registered guests to meet with vet- being appointed deputy director of NIAID in Members also visited the recently Mr. Sherbaniuk, who has worked as advi- eran members. Old friendships were 1998. His special professional career interest expanded Ukrainian National Museum of sor to governments and corporations on rekindled, and new ones built. is vaccine research and development. Chicago, as well as the Ukrainian environmental issues, instructively informed On Thursday morning, Ihor Friday evening concluded with a Institute of Modern Art. The excursion his listeners about developments in this seri- Voyevidka, M.D., outgoing president of pleasant reception held at the neighbor- ended with a walk through the local ous field. He reviewed the history of biologi- UMANA, officially opened the proceed- ing Consulate General of Ukraine and neighborhood, viewing the many local cal warfare and its current status, and offered ings. He welcomed listeners as well as hosted by Consul General Borys Ukrainian boutiques, businesses and his prognostications about the future. presenters, and wished the gathering a Bazylevskyi and his staff. Consul places of worship that make up this Evening of humor and art fruitful academic experience. Bazylevskyi warmly greeted his guests, vibrant Ukrainian American community. and UMANA’s outgoing president, Dr. Thursday’s first speaker, Daniel The evening concluded on a lighter Voyevidka, thanked the consul general Awards dinner Hryhorczuk, M.D., M.P.H., presented an note with UMANA’s own humorist Dr. for his hospitality and graciousness. overview of the public health dilemma That evening UMANA held its awards Evhen Steckiw of the Florida Chapter, posed by the recent spread of the West Nile New officers elected banquet, honoring two deserving entertaining the crowd with his trade- virus throughout the Western Hemisphere, UMANA members. Dr. Voyevidka was mark humorous routines and rhymes. predicting that we have not seen the last of The UMANA Assembly of Delegates praised for his dedicated service for the Members lingered into the night, viewing this newly troublesome illness. met in formal session at the biennial busi- past two years, and Dr. Roxolana the art exhibit highlighting the creative Bohdan Iwanetz, M.D., discussed the ness meeting on Saturday morning. A mul- Horbowyj was applauded for her exem- talents of several health care profession- use of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for titude of routine housekeeping tasks were plary work organizing and collecting data als. In addition to their substantial med- chronic bone infections. He described the completed, and formal reports were sub- on the problem of HIV/AIDS in Ukraine. ical and dental skills, Dr. Eugene center at Ingalls Hospital, Harvey, Ill., and mitted and accepted by the relevant com- Her work culminated with the release of Kovalsky, Dr. George Saj, and Dr. suggested that difficult infections could be mittees. a bilingual CD ROM disc with the latest Roksolana Tymiak-Lonchyna exhibited significantly helped by treating patients in The following officers were elected available information for distribution their creations from the artistic side of chambers under increased pressure of for the upcoming 2003-2005 term: Dr. throughout Ukraine and the United their professional realm. oxygen. Myron Wojtowycz, M.D., Bohdan Iwanetz, president; Dr. Andrew States, including via the Internet. The 37th UMANA Scientific Confe- reviewed the impact of radiological proce- Iwach, president-elect for the 2005-2007 The highlight of the evening was a rence gathered together members from New dures not only on the diagnosis of infec- term, Dr. Ihor Fedoriw, vice-president; talk on “Bio-terrorism: the Past, Present York to California, Michigan to Florida, and tious diseases, but also on therapy of Dr. Ariadna Czartorysky, secretary; and and Future” by well-known Canadian from Canada to Ukraine. The convivial abscesses in various parts of the anatomy. Dr. Boris Leheta, treasurer. author Richard Sherbaniuk from atmosphere supported the exchange of ideas Lydia Baltarowich, M.D., discussed Canadian colleagues encouraged Edmonton. His first book, “The Fifth and new knowledge. Convention partici- the preparedness of the Emergency Horseman – A Novel of Biological pants departed for their respective homes Department at Henry Ford Hospital in As a measure of solidarity and colle- Disaster” has the fictional agent Mike and professions on Sunday, hoping to meet Detroit as the initial site of impact in sus- giality toward their colleagues across the Zammit fighting the evil of environmen- again in two years for a continuation of this pected or actual acts of bio-terrorism. border in Canada, the UMANA Assembly tal bio-terrorism. This action-suspense educational and social tradition. Thursday’s final speaker, Peter Derkach, of Delegates voted to accept dues pay- novel has met with supportive reviews, For further information on UMANA M.D., of Toronto, Ontario, presented a per- ments to UMANA from Canadian mem- and there is a hint of Hollywood interest readers may call (773) 278-6262. sonal and very current overview of the epi- bers in Canadian dollars beginning in demic of Severe Acute Respiratory 2004. This motion underscores the flexi- Syndrome (SARS) as experienced by the bility and responsiveness of the UMANA health profession at its epicenter in the board to issues that involve individual Northern Hemisphere, Toronto. members or chapters of the association, Andrew Browar, D.D.S., opened and further confirms the educational, pro- Friday’s sessions with presentation of evi- fessional and altruistic mission of dence that periodontitis can possibly cause UMANA. The board is encouraging diseases that range far beyond the oral cavi- increased activity by health care profes- ty to affect the body in general, adding new sionals in Canada. Using the approach weight to the advice to clean and floss. applied to the SARS experience, Boris Lushniak, M.D., M.P.H., revisit- UMANA believes it continues to fairly ed the topic of bio-terrorism, briefly and competently represent Canadian reviewing its history, while emphasizing interests in the international arena. the effects such agents have on the Tour of Ukrainian Village largest organ in the body, the skin. Marko Mychaskiw, R.Ph., Ph.D., Saturday afternoon UMANA members explained the impact of infectious dis- from outside Illinois toured Chicago’s eases on the health care economy, empha- Ukrainian Village, with stops for lunch at sizing methods used to calculate direct the headquarters office located in the and indirect costs of such illnesses and Ukrainian Cultural Center. The newly their implications on health care policy. repainted office greeted visitors with Ulana Bodnar, M.D., reviewed the shelves of medical literature, as well as Richard Sherbaniuk, author and guest Keynote speaker Dr. John R. La current status of the HIV/AIDS epidemic modern computer equipment for running speaker. Montagne. 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 No. 35

THE NEWS FROM HERE

This week’s installment of “The News from Here” The bureau assists seniors by taking them to doctors features an array of stories. First is the inspiring story of and bringing them food. New immigrants benefit from a retiree and his friend who are trying to rally their the bureau’s services which help them complete paper- Ukrainian community to help a young woman who work to extend their visas and assist them with all sorts became a victim of violence in Lviv. Next is a story of other forms. Immigrants are assisted in finding jobs about a Georgia Ukrainian and his understanding of the and are provided with translators both in court and for meaning of freedom. The third story tells of a young paperwork. author’s effort to expand Ukrainian experiences into the Mr. Zajac learned of Ms. Varenycia’s case through a mainstream through literature. To wrap up, our final friend, Zenoviy Kurys, who is originally from Lviv and story shows how Ukrainian influence can be found in an now lives in Chicago. Mr. Kurys’ daughter Oksana was unlikely place. a classmate of Ms. Varenycia’s in medical school in Lviv. After hearing about the young woman’s tragic sit- CHICAGO: Chicagoans help Lviv gunshot victim uation, Mr. Zajac consulted with local physicians and specialists to see if there was any hope of helping Iryna. The Ukrainian newspaper Ekspres reported last year Mr. Zajac said: “I want to give the child a chance. We that three bullets became lodged in the body of Iryna have to try. Though there is no hope of helping Iryna in Varenycia, a 23-year-old graduate of medical school, on Ukraine, there is hope here in the United States.” He July 15, 2002, when she happened to be in the wrong added, “I believe you should never say never.” place at the wrong time in Lviv. This tragic event para- Bank accounts have been opened in Chicago for lyzed Ms. Varenycia, who seems destined to spend her Iryna Varenycia, and people are being asked to donate life in a wheelchair. But not if Roman Zajac and to the following: Zenoviy Kurys can help it. The two have decided to • Selfreliance Ukrainian American Federal Credit raise funds for the young woman and bring her to Union, 2332 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60622 – Chicago for surgery and medical care. Account: DBA Iryna Varenycia Fund No. 102068-000; Mr. Zajac, 74, is a retired structural engineer and a • 1st Security Ukrainian Federal Savings Bank, 936 widower. He is also the president of Branch 472 of the N. Western Ave., Chicago, IL 60622 – Account: DBA Ukrainian National Association, known as the Iryna Varenycia Fund No. 0101555183. “Plastovyi Viddil” because it is affiliated with the local Checks may also be sent to: Iryna Varenycia Fund, Plast group. Mr. Zajac himself is a member of the c/o Ukrainian Cultural Center, 2247 W. Chicago Ave., Chervona Kalyna Plast Fraternity. Chicago, IL 60622. Though he is retired, Mr. Zajac holds a full-time vol- Mr. Zajac argues that Ukrainians must help Ms. unteer position as director of the local Social Services Varenycia “so that she, as a young physician, would be Bureau at Ss. Volodymyr and Olha Ukrainian Catholic able to help others.” To that end, Mr. Zajac has prepared Church, which functions with the cooperation of the leaflets that have been posted in local institutions, like local Ukrainian Congress Committee of America. the credit unions where those accounts have been “This [work with the bureau] keeps me active and opened to help a promising young woman from Lviv. healthy. I have no time to get sick,” said Mr. Zajac, who runs the one-man bureau. (Continued on page 23) Iryna Varenycia Austin Ukrainian American community alive and kicking deep in the heart of Texas

by Chrystia Wynnyk-Wilson sionals in high tech industries and acade- paskas to their teachers at Eastertime, dren have set for next year is to convince mia, and includes children of all ages. present them with Ukrainian woodwork Gov. Rick Perry of Texas to commemo- AUSTIN, Texas – Deep in the heart of We even had a Ukrainian high school at Christmas time and write papers about Texas, in the capital of the Lone Star rate Ukrainian Independence Day and exchange student amongst us. What we the Famine-Genocide in Ukraine in try to bring representatives from the State, thrives a small but ever growing have in common is our love of our order to educate their schools’ teachers Ukrainian American community known Houston, Dallas and San Antonio Ukrainian heritage, language and tradi- and students about their Ukrainian her- Ukrainian communities to Austin for as “Austin Ukes.” We all found each tions. itage. such an event. other several years ago thanks to The We host several annual events that We even donate books on Ukraine, Austin Ukes are letting fellow Ukrainian Weekly editorial section. Ever truly bind us together and help preserve Ukrainians and Ukrainian history to our since that initial contact, our group has our customs and traditions. Some of our school libraries. Ukrainians know that we are here and grown into a social and cultural club that events include Sviat Vechir, complete Some of the children have started we are proud Ukrainian Americans. preserves language and tradition. with the full 12 courses and koliady, and being home schooled in “Ukraino- To keep up with the Austin communi- More and more Ukrainians keep find- the traditional blessing of the Paska at znavstvo” (Ukrainian studies) because it ty’s activities, please visit our website at ing each other in central Texas. The U.S. Easter time. is too far to make the eight hour http://www.angelfire.com/folk/austin_uk Census says there are over 1,500 citizens Maintaining and promoting our tradi- roundtrip to Houston every Saturday. es or contact the Austin Ukes at chriswil- of Ukrainian descent in this region of tions is especially important for the chil- One of the goals that some of the chil- [email protected]. Texas. dren because they assure the future con- Membership spans several genera- tinuation of the Ukrainian heritage in our tions ranging from immigrants from the families. post-World War II era to young profes- Additionally, our students present

Austin Ukes host a Ukrainian exchange student. Ukrainians in Austin at their Christmas celebration. No. 35 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 11 An intrepid New Yorker counsels women on divorce

by Helen Smindak Sitting back in her chair, casually attired in blue jeans and long-sleeved knit top, she insisted that I call her NEW YORK – Vira Hladun-Goldmann made head- Vira and use her first name in my story (she doesn’t lines in 1998 when she divorced her husband of 33 years care for the term Ms. and says Mrs. doesn’t apply since and was awarded half of his estimated $90 million estate she is no longer married). Her resolute jaw and upswept – the largest equitable divorce award in American history. hairdo brought to mind the incomparable actress She is following that coup with other major endeav- Katharine Hepburn, who was famous for her independ- ors – a how-to book on divorce, published early this ent ways and outspoken manner. year; a sequel for single women “What is Life After During a tour of her home’s lower four floors, she Divorce?” (now in the works); and a documentary film proudly showed me through rooms furnished with on Ukraine’s history, a long-cherished project she is presently discussing with Ukrainian scholars in Kyiv. gleaming period furniture and accessories. The neo- Her book “Separate Ways: Relationships, Divorce Georgian house and its rooms were pictured in the April and Independence of Mind,” (Sweetpen Press, 2003), 2003 issue of The Magazine Antiques, in a stunning written with the help of ghostwriter Eli Gottlieb, has color feature, “Living With Antiques: The Vira Hladun- sold over 5,000 copies and received great reviews. In it, Goldmann House in New York City.” the Rochester, N.Y., native talks with gusto about her We strolled outside the back of the house, where a marriage to banker Robert Goldman and their eventual park-like expanse of green lawn bordered by shade trees divorce, and counsels women on finding the right and flowering shrubs, looking out on the East River, is lawyer, choosing between mediation or court, keeping a shared by neighboring townhouse residents. marital diary and managing finances. It’s the home she has lived in for 21 years but plans In separate chapters, she reviews the history of to give up for a Park Avenue apartment (already pur- women’s rights and shows why being a housewife is a chased) once a buyer is found for the 1885 townhouse. full-time job – and especially how to convince the court She’ll keep her London home, a clergyman’s residence of that fact. she refers to as “a charming little house” that’s located She writes in the divorce manual: “My divorce shat- directly behind the American Embassy, and hopes to tered precedents in the legal world, but in my world, it build a country house in northern Florida that will hold was merely another chapter in the ongoing book of my her collection of prized furniture. life. I went into it with confidence, and I had no doubts The Goldmans supported Harvard’s Ukrainian from the start that I was going to get exactly what I Research Institute (they hosted fund-raising garden par- deserved.” ties at their home) and the Jewish Congress Committee’s From the beginning of her marriage, she supplied research on Ukrainian-Jewish relations, but Vira says she advice, input and counsel in her husband’s small busi- prefers to promote Ukrainian projects independently ness, cooked and cleaned their home without outside Vira Hladun-Goldmann rather than with an established group. Which explains help, decorated the company’s offices, selected her hus- teens as a babysitter and department store clerk, through why she’s backing the production of a documentary film band’s clothes and cut his hair every two weeks. She her years at college, where she majored in education on Ukraine’s history on her own – she wants to provide gave up her teaching job to raise their daughter Olexa. and minored in art, working at the same time as a sales her creative input as well as funds for the project. A born communicator, she proved to be an invaluable clerk and model in an upscale apparel store. Unlike the exhibit of folk art from Ukraine she tried asset at corporate and charity functions as her husband’s “Like my mother, I’ve always worked hard. Ukrainian very hard to organize at the Museum of Folk Art in New York some 10 years ago, this project is taking off. She business grew and he became wealthy. women are tireless workers, and the trait is passed on surmises that the four-hour, four-segment film will be In the foreword to the book, Judge Walter B. Tolub of from generation to generation,” she notes in her book. completed in three to four years, with the help of her the New York State Supreme Court says he was so From her mother, a tailor, she learned about subtle dif- close friend, British documentarian George Carey. impressed by these points (presented in a mountain of ferences in texture, pattern, color and weave in textiles. At 68, Vira Hladun-Goldmann is looking forward to paperwork put together by the legal team) and by the Her father, a former captain in the Ukrainian army defendant’s forceful presentation of her case that he had telling the world about Ukraine’s glorious history and who became one of the executors of the Ukrainian little difficulty in making his decision. culture and pointing out, among other things, that “the Congress Committee of America, sponsored 200 immi- He granted her 50 percent of the estate built up by Russian writer Nikolai Gogol” is Ukrainian and known her husband, Robert I. Goldman, chief executive officer grants to come to the United States after World War II, to Ukrainians as Mykola Hohol. “We’re going to get of the New York-based Congress Financial Corp. finding jobs for them and places to stay so they could him back; he’s ours,” she declares with a defiant toss of Previously, most New York State judges halved the get started in their new American lives. her head. assets in long-term marriages, but stopped short of No Ms. or Mrs. for Vira She plans to continue educating women on the best doing so when the assets exceeded $20 million. paths to follow in divorce procedings, and will start a Earlier this summer, we talked at her Sutton Square lecture tour in February to promote her first book. Preparing for divorce townhouse in Manhattan, seated in the handsome oak- Among other works, she’ll continue to provide scholar- Vira Hladun-Goldmann (she added the extra ‘n’ to paneled library that she converted from a once dreary ships for “three wonderful teenagers who come from a the name after the divorce) believes the two things most attic into a two-story marvel of dark wood panels that housing project,” and keep on supporting animal rights. necessary to a woman facing the end of a marital rela- conceal storage space, an elevator, bathroom, electronic “After all,” she says,” “I’m a person with a lot of tionship are information and confidence. equipment and a drop-down projector and movie goals – there are many things I feel are important that I Confidence, plus a methodical approach to problem- screen. The second-level gallery, set off by an attractive have to accomplish before I say goodbye,” she states solving and a keen instinct for financial dealings, wood banister, houses a kitchenette and library. emphatically. brought her successfully through her years as a kinder- garten teacher, dyslexia tutor, homemaker and decorator. During her marriage, she earned 8 million on her own as Ukrainian author Irene Zabytko publishes new book a restorer of houses and collector of 18th century antiques, working through her firm Hladun-Goldmann “When Luba Leaves Home” by Irene Zabytko. Ltd. (She learned the art of decorating through reading, Chapel Hill, N.C.: Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill: visits to Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia and New 2003. 240 pp., $21.95. York State museums, and by trial and error.) In “Separate Ways,” she relates how she tackled the Ukrainian American author Irene Zabytko has matter of divorce once she and her husband decided recently published a collection of stories called they had grown apart. “Robert seemed to contract in his “When Luba Leaves Home.” The book contains 10 60s, to withdraw from the surface of a life I felt myself short stories that follow the development of the main wanting to rush out and embrace.” character, Luba, and, in so doing, examine the strug- First came a period of separation, when the two lived gle of first-generation Ukrainian Americans to come apart – a time, she says, that is necessary “for slow, to terms with their mixed national identity. steady clarification.” Then paperwork was gathered: The book is set in 1968 in the Ukrainian Village banking and legal documents, and various financial section of Chicago, and Luba is a 19-year-old college instruments testifying to shared holdings. There was a student. Luba has a burning desire to escape from the search for lawyers who shared her convictions about the Ukrainian Village and find her own identity as a equal division of assets based on equal partnership in “real” American. She even Americanizes her name, marriage. enrolling at her college as Linda, rather than Luba. Extremely important for a divorcing woman, she Luba tries to achieve a new sense of freedom from writes, is to start keeping a diary dedicated to showing her immediate surroundings by buying a used car. what she does in a typical married day. Then she can However, her attempt at freedom from the Ukrainian realize what she has given to the partnership and, more community only results in a closer connection to it. importantly, begin the process of recognizing her value. Since she owns a car, the people in the Ukrainian In a chapter devoted to her Ukrainian-American roots Village come to rely on her for rides. Luba ends up and early life in Rochester, she credits her practical driving her father to the doctor, driving the widow of know-how and strong ethical sense to her parents, the late Kazimira and Roman Hladun. She says her parents’ a Ukrainian poet to a church banquet in her honor, careful, conservative attitude toward money and work (Continued on page 20) has stood her in good stead all her life – from her early 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 No. 35 UNA resort holds 47th annual Miss Soyuzivka competition KERHONKSON, N.Y. – The weekend of August 15- all the applicants were very highly qualified and beauti- Odomirok. 17 saw the crowning of a new Miss Soyuzivka. ful young ladies with Dean’s List and/or National Honor Sonia Semanyszyn, Soyuzivka office administrator, Friday evening started out with Soyuzivka’s tradition- Society credentials. After much deliberation, the num- proceeded to announce the winners: al Odessa Night Seafood Buffet on the Veselka Patio. bers were accounted for and placed into a secret location • Second runner up – Lisa Migliorini, who received a Later in the evening patrons were entertained by until such time as the winners were announced. free weekend stay at Soyuzivka. Hryhoryj Hrynovets and Roman Tsymbala. During the deliberation period the Fata Morgana band • First runner up – Julianna Pedersen, who received a The next day, a beautiful Saturday, brought perfect played for the guests’ enjoyment, while the students and free week stay at Soyuzivka. weather, and guests at the Ukrainian National counselors from the dance camp under the direction of • And Miss Soyuzivka for 2004 (drum roll, please) – Association’s resort enjoyed being outside, hiking, Roma Pryma-Bohachevsky entertained everyone with a Dianna Shmerykowsky, who received a $300 stipend swimming or just lounging around on the Veselka patio. rousing Kolomyika. and a free week at Soyuzivka. Everyone’s spirits were high, until a passing rain shower The judges for this years’ event were: Lydia The management and staff of Soyuzivka and the put a damper on things. Chopivsky-Benson, Miss Soyuzivka 1982; Bohdanka UNA thanked all the young ladies for their participation, As the day progressed, Miss Soyuzivka contest coor- Puzyk, director of the Chemney camp at Soyuzivka; and and the judges and Mrs. Hawryluk for their work in dinator Stephanie Hawryluk received applications from Tanya Singura-Soltys, webmaster for Soyuzivka and a making the annual Miss Soyuzivka festivities a success- some beautiful young ladies. By the start of the judging former employee at the resort. ful event. session there was one applicant, but the group soon Soon it was quarter to midnight and the Miss The weekend was rounded out on Sunday with a per- grew to five. Soyuzivka’s for the year 2003 were giving their farewell formance by the Dumka Choir under the direction of The judges had a difficult time reaching a decision, as speeches – first Lydia Rajsz, followed by Michelle Wasyl Hrechynsky.

Miss Soyuzivka 2004, Dianna Shmerykowsky. Miss Soyuzivka first runner up, Julianna Pedersen. Miss Soyuzivka second runner up, Lisa Migliorini.

The three Miss Soyuzivka finalists pose with the resort’s director of hospitality services, Nestor Paslawsky, and contest coordinator Stephanie Hawryluk. Michelle Odomirok No. 35 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 13

Soyuzivka photo album: the summer season’s winding down

KERHONKSON, N.Y. – The UNA’s Soyuzivka resort is finishing up its summer season, the end of which will be the festivities held at the resort during Labor Day weekend. Over the past several weeks the resort has continued to host a variety of different events for people of all ages. Seen on this page are (top left and proceeding clockwise): outside the Veselka patio is a beautiful view from the resort, while guests can be seen at the tiki bar in the center of the photo; Soyuzivka’s Hutsul stands tall at the resort’s main entrance as a sign at his feet lets peo- ple know that the resort is hosting the Ceasar Salad Festival, which was organized by Lidia Lodynsky; two chefs from a local restaurant participate in the Ceasar Salad Festival; Stephanie Hawryluk poses for a photo while working at the resort’s gift shop; Daria Hanushevsky displays her ceramic art work in Soyuzivka’s library; a group photo of the Korduba- Chubatyi family reunion, which was recently held at the resort; members of the Korduba-Chubatyi reunion swim at Soyuzivka’s Green Pool. 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 No. 35

NEWSBRIEFS CLACLASSSSIFIEDIFIEDSS (Continued from page 2) TO PLACE YOUR ADVERTISEMENT CALL MARIA OSCISLAWSKI, (973) 292-9800 x 3040 pipeline linking Novopskov in Luhansk Oblast with Uzhhorod in Transcarpathia, Interfax and ITAR-TASS reported on SERVICES PROFESSIONALS August 26. That plan was discussed at a meeting in Kyiv of the consortium’s leader- YEVSHANDistributor of fine Ukrainian products - Cassettes, Compact ship the same day. The meeting was attend- discs - Videos - Language tapes & Dictionaries – Computer ed by Russian Deputy Prime Minister ECONOMY AIIRFARES ATTORNEY fonts for PC & MAC - Imported Icons - Ukrainian Stationery Viktor Khristenko, Gazprom deputy heads + tax - Cookbooks - Food parcels to Ukraine Aleksander Ryazanov and Yurii Komarov, (round trip) Lviv/Odesa $817 Ukrainian Vice Prime Minister Vitalii + tax JERRY Call for a free catalog one way $550 Haiduk, and Naftohaz Ukrainy head Yurii + tax Boiko. Mr. Khristenko told journalists that Kyiv $670 (round trip) KUZEMCZAK 1-800-265-9858 + tax VISA - MASTERCARD - AMEX ACCEPTED the new, 1,500-kilometer pipeline will be one way accidents at work FAX ORDERS ACCEPTED (514) 630-9960 built within two years and will cost $2 bil- $515 • BOX 325, BEACONSFIELD, QUEBEC automobile accidents lion-$2.5 billion. The pipeline is expected Fregata Travel • CANADA - H9W 5T8 250 West 57 Street, #1211 • slip and fall to increase gas deliveries to Europe via New York, NY 10107 medical malpractice Ukraine from the current 110 billion cubic Tel.: 212-541-5707 Fax: 212-262-3220 FIRST• CONSULTATION IS FREE. Apon Record Company, Inc. meters to 131 billion cubic meters. * Restrictions apply P.O. Box 3082, Long Island City, NY, 11103 (RFE/RL Newsline) Fees collected only after Tel. 718-721-5599 personal injury case is successful. Kyiv’s WTO entry on own schedule Video tapes, compact discs ALSO: and audio cassettes from Ukraine. KYIV – Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Minister Anatolii Zlenko said in Kyiv on DWI Order from exclusive representative • of Kyiv and Lviv radio and TV companies. August 26 that Ukraine will not coordinate • real estate its entry into the World Trade Organization • criminal and civil cases We convert European video to American. (WTO) with Russia, Interfax and ITAR- • traffic offenses TASS reported. “This issue has been matrimonial matters • HELP WANTED removed from the agenda,” Mr. Zlenko • general consultation noted. He said Ukraine’s affiliation to the common economic space of Russia, Belarus WELT & DAVID and Kazakstan will not hamper talks on 1373 Broad St, Clifton, N.J. 07013 Help wanted. After school child care Ukraine’s admission to the WTO. Mr. and light housekeeping. Zlenko said the common economic space (973) 773-9800 Afternoons, 20 hrs per wk. idea is “in evolution,” adding that the four Parsippany area. involved states are no longer considering a Call Natalka (evenings) 973-644-0941. common currency or a common customs union. (RFE/RL Newsline) LAW OFFICIES OF Needed: A caring, creative, responsible individual ZENON B. MASNYJ, ESQ. Police detain Ukrainian ambassador Since 1983 from 3-7 p.m. Monday-Friday; must have own car, safe driving record, to pick up two children after WARSAW – Police in Warsaw have Lubomyr Kulynych • Serious Personal Injury school and take care of them for four hours in detained Ukraine’s ambassador to Poland, • Real Estate/Coop Closings Essex County, New Jersey • Business Representation Interested parties please fax credentials to Oleksander Nykonenko, for allegedly driv- VIDEO PRODUCTION • Securities Arbitration ing under the influence of alcohol, Polish • Divorces (212) 254-5875. Specializing in Weddings and Special Events • Wills & Probate Radio reported on August 26. Chief VIDEO Conversions NTSC-PAL-SECAM/DVD Commander of the Police Antoni 1119 Shore Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11214 157 SECOND AVENUE Tel.: (718) 837-1317 • Cell: (917) 848-8437 NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10003 FOR SALE Kowalczyk said he has passed the case on to (212) 477-3002 the Interior Ministry and the Foreign (By Appointment Only) Ministry. “This is outside my competence,” The Mr. Kowalczyk noted. “They [the min- istries] will take further steps.” (RFE/RL MERCHANDISE MINNEWASKA LUNA BAND Property for sale – Ukrainian Rest/Bar located near Newsline) Music for weddings, zabavas, Soyuzivka $295,000. festivals. anniversary celebrations. Two apts. included on 3.36 acres. Kuchma replaces internal affairs minister OLES KUZYSZYN phone/fax: (732) 636-5406 Call Susan at Win Morrison Realty e-mail: [email protected] FIRST QUALITY (800) 836-0588 KYIV – President Leonid Kuchma on UKRAINIAN TRADITIONAL-STYLE August 27 dismissed Internal Affairs Minister Yurii Smyrnov and replaced him PERSONALS MONUMENTS with Mykola Bilokon, head of the presiden- SERVING NY/NJ/CT REGION CEMETERIES tial administration’s Department for OBLAST Judiciary Reform and the Activity of EARN EXTRA INCOME! Military Formations and Law-Enforcing MEMORIALS Bodies, Interfax reported. Mr. Kuchma com- P.O. BOX 746 The Ukrainian Weekly mented that “there is no politics” in the Chester, NY 10918 replacement. “Fresh blood will in no way 845-469-4247 is looking for harm the activity of the Internal Affairs BILINGUAL HOME APPOINTMENTS Ministry,” the Ukrainian president said. Mr. advertising sales agents. Kuchma also suggested that other Cabinet For additional information changes might be forthcoming. (RFE/RL Newsline) contact Maria Oscislawski, WEST2282 Bloor St. W., Toronto, ARKA Ont., Canada M6S 1N9 NGOs rally in support of Kyiv mayor WANT IMPACT? Advertising Manager, Fine Gifts KYIV – Some 500 representatives of Run your personal message here, Authentic Ukrainian Handicrafts The Ukrainian Weekly, non-governmental organizations gathered Art, Books, CDs, Ceramics Andrew R. CHORNY before the office of Kyiv Mayor Oleksander in The Ukrainian Weekly’s Embroidered Goods and Supplies Manager (973) 292-9800, ext 3040. Gold Jewelery, Icons, Magazines Omelchenko on August 27 to protest what CLASSIFIEDS section. Newspapers, Pysankas and Supplies they believe is the imminent dismissal of All Services to Ukraine, Mail-orders Mr. Omelchenko by President Kuchma, Interfax reported. Since Mr. Omelchenko Tel.: (416) 762-8751 Fax: (416) 767-6839 MISCELLANEOUS turned 65 earlier this month, he may be sub- e-mail: [email protected] www.westarka.com ject to obligatory retirement under a law on state service. NGO protesters argue that by èãÄëí – Ukrainian Scouting Organization virtue of the same law on state service, Mr. Ukrainian Book Store Fraternal Union of Omelchenko, who is simultaneously the Largest selection of Ukrainian books, dance KHMELNYCHENKY head of the Kyiv City Council, an elected supplies, Easter egg supplies, music, icons, is calling all members and other interested members body, is not liable to dismissal even if he is greeting cards, giftwear, and much more. of PLAST to their traditional kozak overage. Mr. Kuchma said the same day that RADA he is going to ask the Justice Ministry for Insure and be sure. 10215-97st Saturday, 13 September 2003 Edmonton, AB T5J 2N9 at Bobrivka in North Colebrook, CT clarification of those provisions of the law on state service that relate to dismissals of Toll free: 1-866-422-4255 For more information and how to get there by 2:00 Join the UNA! p.m., please refer to www.xmel.org nominated officials who are overage. www.ukrainianbookstore.com (RFE/RL Newsline) No. 35 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 15

In early 2003, the Ministry of Justice ì „ÎË·ÓÍÓÏÛ ÒÏÛÚÍÛ ÔÓ‚¥‰ÓÏÎflπÏÓ, ˘Ó 19 ÒÂðÔÌfl 2003 ð. OUN, UPA come... and the Institute of History of the ‚¥‰¥È¯Ó‚ Û ‚¥˜Ì¥ÒÚ¸ Û ÅÎÛÏ٥Ή¥, ç. ÑÊ. ̇ 78 ðÓˆ¥ ÊËÚÚfl, (Continued from page 2) National Academy of Sciences signed an ̇¯ ̇ȉÓðÓʘËÈ åìÜ, ÅÄíúäé, ÑßÑé, ÅêÄí, Çìâäé ¥ äìáàç was forced ultimately to backtrack. Prior to agreement to research the “scientific July 11, Poland laid out a long list of analysis of documents and preparation of ·Î. Ô. demands to Ukraine – most of which Kyiv proposals to outline an official position never agreed to. The manner in which on the activities of the OUN and the Poland pressured Ukraine led to a counter- UPA.” A collection of documents is to be ‰-ð ω. reaction to the perception that Poland was prepared by a special governmental com- attempting to revive its role as an “elder mittee led by Institute of History Director . brother” toward its eastern neighbor by cap- Stanislav Kulchytskyi, which has been êéåÄç äàëßãÖÇëúäàâ given a budget of 250,000 hrv ($47,000). italizing on President Kuchma’s interna- ̇ð. 21 ÎËÒÚÓÔ‡‰‡ 1924 ð Û ëÚ‡ÌËÒ·‚Ó‚¥ (ß‚‡ÌÓ-îð‡ÌÍ¥‚Ò¸ÍÛ), ìÍð‡ªÌ‡. tional isolation and domestic unpopularity. These steps, coupled with the need to Third, Volyn 1943 is an issue only for dent Viktor Yushchenko’s unquestioned ÑÓ‚„ÓÎ¥ÚÌ¥È ˜ÎÂÌ ÛÔð‡‚Ë ìÍð‡ªÌÒ¸ÍÓ„Ó ã¥Í‡ðÒ¸ÍÓ„Ó íÓ‚‡ðËÒÚ‚‡ ‚ ÄÏÂðˈ¥. ideologically committed political parties popularity in western Ukraine before next year’s elections, make it likely that the Ç¥‰‚¥‰ËÌË: Ô’flÚÌˈfl, 22 ÒÂðÔÌfl 2003 ð. ‚¥‰ „Ó‰. 2 ‰Ó 4 ÔÓ ÔÓÎ., ¥ ‚¥‰ „Ó‰. 7 on the left and right in Ukraine, with the ‰Ó 9 ‚˜. ‚ ÔÓıÓðÓÌÌÓÏÛ Á‡‚‰ÂÌÌ¥ Levandoski Funeral Home, 44 Bay Ave., Blo- former condemning the OUN and UPA OUN and UPA will be officially recog- omfield, NJ. (as in the Soviet era) and the latter calling nized – and thereby de facto “rehabilitat- èÄçÄïàÑÄ: Ô’flÚÌˈfl, 22 ÒÂðÔÌfl 2003 ð.Ó „Ó‰. 7:30 ‚˜ ‚ ˆ¸ÓÏÛ Ê Á‡‚Â- for them to be rehabilitated and honored ed” – by presidential decree and by the ‰ÂÌÌ¥. as national heroes. Historical issues and Verkhovna Rada, which is controlled by a èéïéêéç: ÒÛ·ÓÚ‡, 23 ÒÂðÔÌfl „Ó‰. 10:00 ð‡ÌÍÛ ‚ ÛÍð‡ªÌÒ¸Í¥È Í‡ÚÓÎˈ¸Í¥È national symbols are not an issue for ide- slim propresidential majority. Opposition ˆÂðÍ‚¥ Ò‚. ß‚‡Ì‡ ïðÂÒÚËÚÂÎfl, 719 Sanford Ave., Newark, NJ., ‡ ‚¥‰Ú‡Í ̇ ˆ‚ËÌÚ‡ð¥ ologically amorphous centrists who will is likely to come only from the Glendale Cemetery, Hoover Ave., Bloomfield, NJ. vote in Parliament in any manner ordered Communists and, in relation to OUN, èðË·ËÚ¥ „ÓðÂÏ: by President Kuchma (recent examples from the Socialists. As in the commemora- include parliamentary support for a CIS tion of the 70th anniversary of the 1933 ‰ðÛÊË̇ – åÄêßü free-trade zone and condemnation of the famine, President Kuchma is once again ‰Ó˜ÍË – ãüêàëÄ ãéÇÖêåß Á ÏÛÊÂÏ ïêàëíéîÖêéå ¥ ‰ÓÌflÏË ïêàëíàçäéû ¥ Ñßüçéû 1933 artificial famine as genocide). able to divide the left and right opposition. – êìíÄ îßéêßçé Á ÏÛÊÂÏ Ñßçéå ¥ ÒË̇ÏË ÑÄêßüçéå, The centrists’ indifference to historical åÄäëúéå ¥ ãìäéû issues can be seen in the educational sys- ÒËÌ – èÄÇãé tem. Longtime Minister of Education Vasyl ·ð‡Ú – ûêßâ Á ‰ðÛÊËÌÓ˛ éãÖçéû Kremen is a high-profile member of the Turning the pages... ·ð‡Ú‡Ì͇ – ÄççÄ éêíàçëúäÄ Á ÏÛÊÂÏ ûêß∏å êàÅÄäéå ¥ (Continued from page 6) Social Democratic Party-United. Kremen ‰¥Ú¸ÏË ãüêàëéû ¥ ÄÑêßüçéå has promoted the domination of the 100 hrv note, which is worth about $59.) ÒÂÒÚð‡ – ãÖëü Á ÏÛÊÂÏ ÇéãéÑàåàêéå äéëàäéå Mykhailo Hrushevsky school of Ukrainian “I’ve traded in some of my hryvnia bills ÒÂÒÚð¥ÌÍË – ÇßêãüçÄ íäÄó history throughout the educational system. for kopiyky,” said Ina Zhukova, a retired – Åéêàë íäÄó Á ‰ðÛÊËÌÓ˛ áÖçÖû ¥ ÒËÌÓÏ ãÖëÖå Mr. Hrushevsky was denounced in Soviet State Television employee, who still works – ÄçÑêßâ íäÄó Á ‰ðÛÊËÌÓ˛ éãÖçäéû ¥ ÒËÌÓÏ to support her family. “This is by special ëÖÇÄëíßüçéå propaganda starting in the 1930s and con- – áéêüçÄ ëúéäÄãé Á ÏÛÊÂÏ èÖíêéå Ú‡ ‰¥Ú¸ÏË tinues to be denounced by the Communist request from my grandson, who doesn’t åÖãÄëÖû ¥ åàäéãäéû Party of Ukraine (CPU). remember coins,” she said. Ukraine has ÍÛÁËÌË – íÄ∫ëÄ ÅéÉÑÄçëúäÄ, åÄêßâäÄ ÉéãßçÄíÄ, åàäéãÄ Ukraine’s school textbooks adopt an not had coins in circulation since 1991. ... ÉéãßçÄíàâ Á ðÓ‰ËÌÓ˛, ÅéÉÑÄç üäàåéÇëúäàâ Á inclusive approach to the most controver- The Ukrainian government, which ðÓ‰ËÌÓ˛, ÇéãéÑàåàêÄ èêéäéèÖñú Á ðÓ‰ËÌÓ˛, sial period of Ukrainian history, World War launched a wide-reaching public rela- ÉÄãü äéíàë Á ðÓ‰ËÌÓ˛ II. In school textbooks Ukraine’s war effort tions campaign aimed at its citizens after Ú‡ ·ÎËʘ‡ ¥ ‰‡Î¸¯‡ ðÓ‰Ë̇. has been expanded to include the UPA announcing the introduction of the hryv- which, it is now accepted, fought both the nia, seemed to keep to its promises that Ç¥˜Ì‡ âÓÏÛ Ô‡Ï’flÚ¸! Nazis and Soviets. The UPA, whom prices would be frozen for one month Poland wished Ukraine to condemn for the after the new currency was introduced. 1943 Volyn events, has long been rehabili- Close to 380 trillion karbovantsi (about tated in Ukraine’s educational system and $2 billion) are estimated to be circulating in patriotic inculcation in the armed forces. in the shadow economy, and government Fourth, the Ukrainian state could not leaders hope that they will be traded in for agree to join Poland in condemning the hryvni within the next two weeks. OUN and UPA when it itself had still not By mid-week, the situation had stabi- made up its mind about these two organi- lized, and Ukrainian government leaders zations. Another complicating factor was said they were satisfied with the progress that the OUN and UPA were not organi- of monetary reform. MYRON RUSSNAK zations that represented the Ukrainian “The exchange of the karbovanets for from Rochester, N.Y. died on Thursday, August 14, 2003. state (unlike the Polish combatants, the the hryvnia has so far produced no unex- Armija Krajowa, that represented the pected problems in any part of the country,” Divine Liturgy was celebrated on Tuesday, August 19 Polish government in exile). said Mr. Pynzenyk, appearing on television at St. Josaphat’s Ukrainian Catholic Church. The Volyn 1943 commemoration, com- on Monday evening, September 2. ... pleting unfinished business before the end According to government leaders, the Loving wife Irene Russnak of the Kuchma era and the need to obtain hryvnia should remain stable until the end of western Ukrainian votes in the 2004 presi- the month. It can currently be exchanged for dential elections are three factors that have 100,000 karbovantsi to 1 hryvnia, and both spurred the momentum in the Ukrainian residents of Ukraine and non-residents can DEATH ANNOUNCEMENTS state’s recognition of the OUN and UPA. exchange their karbovantsi for hryvni until The National Institute for Strategic September 16, the last day both currencies to be published in The Ukrainian Weekly – in the Ukrainian Studies (NISS), a presidential think-tank, will circulate in Ukraine. ... The National or English language – are accepted by mail, courier, fax, phone or e-mail. recently obtained a directive from President Bank of Ukraine has set its exchange at 1.76 Deadline: Tuesday noon before the newspaper’s date of issue. Kuchma to prepare a presidential decree to the U.S. dollar, 1.18 to the DM and about (The Weekly goes to press early Friday mornings.) “On steps to establish the rights of fighters 3,000 Russian rubles to the hryvnia. At the Rate: $7.50 per column-inch. for the freedom and independence of the Interbank Currency Exchange, it debuted at Ukrainian state.” NISS Director Anatolii 1.76 hrv to the dollar. ... Information should be addressed to the attention of the Advertising Department Halchynskyi said the decree would finally and sent to: The Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280 (NB: please establish “political and historical justice Source: “Stable hryvnia greets intro- do not include post office box if sending via courier), Parsippany, N.J. 07054; towards those individuals – members of the duction of monetary reform in Ukraine,” fax, (973) 644-9510; telephone, (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040; OUN and UPA fighters, who struggled for by Marta Kolomayets, Kyiv Press e-mail, [email protected]. the freedom and independence of the Bureau, The Ukrainian Weekly, Vol. Please include the daytime phone number of a contact person. Ukrainian state in the 20th century.” LXIV, No. 36, September 8, 1996.

St. Andrew’s Brotherhood at the St. Andrew’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church invites the Tri-State Ukrainian Community to the annual Pig Roast picnic which will take place on Sunday, the 6th of September 2003 on the church grounds, South Bound Brook, N.J. The festivities will begin at 1 p.m. Besides delicious food there will be music, games, raffle. For further information, call: Ihor Sawon, (908) 231-7266

St. Andrew’s Brotherhood 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 No. 35

Ukrainian National Association ìÍð‡ªÌÒ¸ÍËÈ ç‡ðÓ‰ÌËÈ ëÓ˛Á not just another insurance company

◊ë‚Ó·Ó‰‡“ • íhe Ukrainian Weekly Soyuzivka* ëÓ˛Á¥‚͇ 1-800-253-9862 ÔÂð‰Ô·ڇ/subscriptions – x. 3042 No. 35 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 17

Kuchma and his chief of staff, Viktor “This regime killed the Ukrainian idea, artificially starved to death. Ukrainian World... Medvedchuk, of whom many are critical, so as to announce afterwards that it had The following day the Ukrainian (Continued from page 1) only to find shelter within the walls of not developed,” said Mr. Yuschenko. Congress Committee of America, in con- Lozynskyj. “We are trying to establish the historic Kyiv Teachers’ Building, He added, “The tragedy in the current junction with the UWC conclave, held a ties in Azerbaijan and in Vietnam. We where Professor Mykhailo Hrushevsky situation is that the regime did not round table on the 70th anniversary of the want to be everywhere where Ukrainians declared the first modern independent Ukrainianize, but became more nonde- tragic event and heard remarks by such live.” Ukrainian state in 1918. script. Poverty and unemployment disperse personalities as Natalia Zarudna, It was under Mr. Lozynskyj’s guid- Mr. Lozynskyj initiated a second destroyed in many any faith in a deputy state secretary of the Ministry of ance during his first five-year term that round of controversy when he called Ukrainian state.” Foreign Affairs, Archbishop Husar and the UWC brought the Eastern diaspora Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs And in another biting comment he National Deputy Ivan Pliusch, former under its wing. Today the UWC numbers Anatolii Zlenko, “a coward,” during the noted: “While patriots fought for an inde- chairman of the Verkhovna Rada. 230 organizations in 20 countries, final press conference. pendent Ukraine, behind their backs a pseu- While Ms. Zarudna informed those in accounting for more than 3 million of the Mr. Lozynskyj’s remark came as he do-elite was forming, for which Ukraine is attendance that the Ukrainian delegation at 20 million strong Ukrainian diaspora. It discussed the tragic lack of Ukrainian simply a territory for doing business.” the U.N. was preparing to table a resolution has achieved recognition within the schools in Russia and the little effort Most of Ukraine’s state and govern- in the General Assembly to have the Great United Nations and recently became a Ukraine has made to pressure Moscow to ment leadership, many of whom were Famine officially recognized as genocide, member of the U.N. Economic and change the situation, given that Russian- extended personal invitations, were no- Archbishop Husar noted that recognition of Social Council. language schools are abundantly found shows at the congress, among them the famine for what it was would only work After the election of its new leader- throughout most of Ukraine. President Leonid Kuchma and Prime if true repentance “within the heart” took ship, the UWC passed a deluge of resolu- “Minister of Foreign Affairs Anatolii Minister Viktor Yanukovych. Vice Prime place. Finally Mr. Pliusch noted that in tions, ranging from a demand to recall Zlenko is a friend of mine – we have Minister of Humanitarian Affairs Dmytro Ukraine too many are still not cognizant of Russia’s Ambassador to Ukraine Viktor drunk vodka together – but he is, with all Tabachnyk represented both of them on what happened in Ukraine’s eastern and Chernomyrdin to a call by the delegates due apologies, a coward. He never raised opening night and was greeted with tepid southern regions in 1932-1933, for which to have the United Nations recognize the these concerns [with Russia].” applause by the delegates and guests, the current regime should hold blame. Great Famine of 1932-1933 as genocide Despite the several controversies, the who numbered some 500 in all. Mr. Kaczaraj noted another, more against the Ukrainian nation. delegates decided in a resolution to hold Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada upbeat highlight: the unique and interest- As has happened previously whenever all future congresses in Ukraine, mostly Volodymyr Lytvyn later met with the dele- ing country reports given on the second activists from the diaspora hit home soil, because of the advantage such a location gates – those who had not yet dispersed to day by representatives of each of the coun- controversies simmered during the four offers members of the Eastern diaspora, be precise – on August 22, a day after the try delegations present at the conclave. days the UWC delegates were in Kyiv. who have a difficult time obtaining visas conclave had ended. Mr. Yanukovych met “What really impressed me were the First, there was the already widely publi- to Western countries and can ill afford the privately with Mr. Lozynskyj on August 19. reports – for example the one by the cized last minute change of venue the more expensive costs associated with vis- A solemn march along Volodymyrska Italian representative,” explained Mr. UWC had to undertake after the Ukrainian iting the West. Street, where many of Ukraine’s oldest Kaczaraj. “I did not realize that there was Home Exposition Center, which is owned The highlight of the four-day conclave historic sites are situated, in commemora- such a heavy concentration of Ukrainians by the presidential administration, decided was the appearance of Our Ukraine tion of the Great Famine of 1932-33, – half a million, I think – in Italy, mostly it could not accommodate the conclave leader Viktor Yuschenko, whose mere with the participation of more than 1,000 of the fourth emigration.” because of an unforeseen “renovation” arrival in the cramped amphitheater of delegates, visitors and Kyivans, also Mr. Kaczaraj said he believed it was the project. The Ukrainian Home also failed the Teachers’ Building during the open- proved a memorable if somber moment responsibility of the new leadership of the to return a substantial deposit the UWC ing ceremony held on the first evening during the four day-gathering. It ended UWC to help nurture the new émigré had made to hold the reservation. brought a rousing round of applause. beneath a steady drizzle at the foot of the Ukrainian communities, especially in Mr. Lozynskyj said that the UWC was When he got up to speak, he received bell tower of St. Michael’s Golden- Eastern diaspora regions – whether in Russia considering legal action, but first would a standing ovation. The delegates, many Domed Sobor, where the Great Famine or Kazakhstan or Uzbekistan – to coalesce, consult with lawyers on what legal of whom waited to hear Ukraine’s most memorial stands. There Patriarch Filaret to develop and to retain their identities. recourse the UWC had available. popular politician dispense oppositionist of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and “We need to help them organize their Many of the delegates, including Mr. rhetoric, received an earful. The future Archbishop Lubomyr Husar of the communities, so that they will grow and Lozynskyj, said it was ironic destiny that presidential candidate directed a slashing Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church con- Ukrainianize. There are so many the UWC conclave was refused use of a rhetoric at those who hold the reigns of celebrated a panakhyda in memory of the Ukrainians out there who do not know hall controlled by President Leonid power in Ukraine today. 7 million-10 million that Stalin’s regime who they are,” explained Mr. Kaczaraj. 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 No. 35 No. 35 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 19

The next issue of The Ukrainian Weekly’s NOTESNOTES ONON PEOPLEPEOPLE Miami community gather to celebrate WeddingWedding couple’s 60th wedding anniversary Announcements Announcementswill appear on September 14, 2003. For a wedding announcement to be included in that issue, all information must be received in our offices by September 5, 2003. Along with wedding announcements, we will include greetings from friends, family members, bridesmaids and ushers – from all those who wish to share in the excitement of a new marriage. Also welcome are anniversary and engagement announcements and greetings Rates for announcements and greetings: One-column wedding announcement: $100 Two-column wedding announcement: $200 Wedding greeting: $75 For further information or to request a brochure, please call (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 (Maria). Visit www.ukrweekly.com to view a wedding announcement sample page. Irene and Nicholas Rakush next to some of their records of achievement.

by Donna Maksymowich-Waskiewicz American Senior Society in 1975 where Mr. Rakush served as president for 20 MIAMI – Members of the Miami years and led the way for countless dona- Ukrainian community gathered to cele- tions to the Catholic Church and count- brate the 60th wedding anniversary of less other causes, including the Nicholas and Irene Rakush on Sunday, July 13. The festivities followed Sunday Shevchenko Scientific Society. The divine liturgy at the Assumption- Rakushes also continue to support other Dormition Ukrainian Catholic Church. local organizations like the Ukrainian More than $1,700 was donated to the Dancers of Miami. Their involvement in church in the Rakushes’ name in celebra- each of these groups has been instrumen- tion of this momentous occasion – very tal in keeping the organizations strong fitting for a couple who have spearhead- and vital to Ukrainian life in Miami. ed so many fund-raising campaigns for Kind words and well wishes for “many Ukrainian organizations here in the years” were expressed by many commu- United States and, most dear to them, in nity members, most notably Father Ivan Ukraine. Chirovsky, Miroslava Tershakovec, Maria Mr. and Mrs. Rakush arrived in Miami Wenglowskyj and Michael Kowalchuk. in 1968 and immediately became Representing the younger generation, involved in the local Ukrainian National Donna Maksymowich-Waskiewicz ex- Association Branch 368, Ukrainian pressed sincere appreciation to Mr. and National Women’s League of America Mrs. Rakush for their years of hard work Branch 17, the Ukrainian American Club and for the fine example they have been of Miami and the Assumption-Dormition to all Ukrainians who know them. Ukrainian Catholic Church. They have From the champagne toast and served as officers of these organizations “Mnohaya Lita” to the beef stroganoff during the past 35 years and continue to and torte, Miami Ukrainians paid tribute mentor their current officers. to two pillars of the Ukrainian communi- They helped found the Ukrainian ty, Nicholas and Irene Rakush.

Notes on People is a feature geared toward reporting on the achievements of mem- bers of the Ukrainian National Association. All submissions should be concise due to space limitations and must include the person’s UNA branch number. Items will be published as soon as possible after their receipt, when space permits.

Lesia Ukrainka School of Ukrainian Studies in Morris County, NJ announces

the beginning of the school year for children from pre-kindergarten (age 5) through 12th grade on September 6, 2003 In Morris Catholic High School, 200 Denville Ave, Denville, NJ, immediately following registration at 8:30 AM.

The first day of classes will be on September 6, 2003, at Morris Catholic High School. SUPPORT THE WORK Lubodar Olesnycky, President of the Parents’ Committee OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY. Website: www.ridna.org Send contributions to: The Ukrainian Weekly Press Fund, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 No. 35

title, a Book Sense 76 selection and a Ukrainian author... New England Booksellers Association (Continued from page 11) Discovery selection. and giving her friends from the commu- The book was recently reviewed in the nity rides to school. Chicago Tribune. Writing in the paper’s In the end, Luba comes to terms with May 25 issue, Julie Parson-Nesbitt noted her dual identity as a Ukrainian that “Irene Zabytko brings this place [the American, learning to be both Ukrainian Ukrainian Village section of Chicago] and American. In the course of her narra- and time vividly to life with insight, tive, Luba also provides a portrait of life affection and humor” and that she “pro- in an urban Ukrainian American commu- vides an engaging and perceptive look nity in the 1960s, when World War II into a community rarely portrayed in refugees were still relatively recent American literature.” immigrants. The reviewer also wrote that Ms. Like the character Luba, Irene Zabytko “has a gift for bringing her char- Zabytko is a first-generation Ukrainian acters to life by showing their weakness- American from the Ukrainian Village in es” and “has a sharp ear for language.” Chicago. For her writing, she has Ms. Parson-Nesbitt added that “Chicago received the PEN Syndicated Fiction readers will catch the in jokes and sly Award and has appeared on National references: Western Avenue becomes Public Radio’s “The Sound of Writing.” Eastern Avenue, and the University of Ms. Zabytko is also the author of “The Illinois at Chicago is thinly disguised as Sky Unwashed,” a novel about elderly Loop University.” Ukrainian women who moved back into “ ‘When Luba Leaves Home’ adds to their homes near the Chornobyl power the enduring literature of American plant not long after the disastrous explo- immigrant stories told through the com- sion. “The Sky Unwashed” was a Barnes pelling voices of its crucial first-genera- & Noble Discover Great New Writers tion daughters,” the review concludes.

Place your order by September 19, 2003 for the inaugural issue! No. 35 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 21 22 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 No. 35 No. 35 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 23

MADISON, N.J.: A part of Ukraine The News from... on exhibit (Continued from page 10) On display in an exhibit titled “New CORNELIA, Ga.: A Ukrainian Jersey Folk: Celebrating Our Diversity” American’s insight into freedom is a Ukrainian costume formerly owned Andrew Demus, a master woodworker by Taissa Meleshko, currently of was featured in The Northeast Georgian, Apopka, Fla., The Weekly learned from a local newspaper in Cornelia, Ga., on New Jerseyan Odarka Stockert. March 11, which focused on his Madison’s Museum of Early Trades and American patriotism and its roots. Crafts is home to the display of the DP According to columnist Bob Justus, Mr. era Ukrainian costume, made of surplus Demus, who survived both the Soviet army materials. In addition, the exhibit and the Nazi regimes, worked as a slave showcases pysanky and valuables laborer in Hitler’s Nazi Germany during owned by immigrants of various ethnic World War II. He learned woodworking backgrounds that have been brought to from his father, and uses this skill to the U.S. from countries all over the make others happy; he sends wooden world. model cars and planes to children who Through this exhibit, which has been are sick or injured, like victims of funded by the Geraldine R. Dodge Columbine. Foundation, the Madison Museum aims Mr. Demus was born in 1926 in a to portray the lives of immigrants. Ukrainian village north of the Black Sea. Ukrainian artifacts, as well as Armenian, During World War II Mr. Demus’ mother African-American, Dutch, English, was shot because she refused to give a Indian, Italian, Latino, Norwegian, German soldier her chickens. His father, Russian, Slovak, Swedish and Turkish, who helped Jews and others find safety can be seen at the exhibit, which runs during the German occupation, met a through January 11, 2004. For further similar fate, though at the hands of the information contact the museum at (973) Soviets: he was executed for giving food 377-2982. to a German soldier, despite the fact that he was forced to do it. – Compiled by Roxolana Woloszyn Mr. Demus, meanwhile, was sent to Germany as a slave laborer. After he was freed he went to work in a field kitchen for the Americans when the 7th Tank (Armored) Division of Gen. George Patton’s 3rd Army advanced near Mannheim. He then went to Erlangen and joined the 9th Air Force. Mr. Demus’ next job led him to a supply room at Bruck, Germany, where he worked for SSgt Trayce A. Gilstrap of Alto, Georgia. In 1949 Mr. Demus emigrated to England and became an interpreter. Then, in 1959, he finally arrived in New York. The Northeast Georgian columnist interviewed Mr. Demus because he wanted to get a perspective on why Americans want “peace at any price.” Mr. Demus responded that this was because many people do not know what it is like to exist under the rule of a dicta- tor. Mr. Demus added that he believes everything possible must be done to defend the United States and its freedom. ST. PAUL, Alberta: Young Ukrainian Canadian writes book Because Lisa Grekul, a Ukrainian Canadian, felt that there was a lack of Ukrainian Canadian literature, she wrote “Kalyna’s Song.” While in a Canadian literature class at the University of Alberta, Ms. Grekul said she did not see enough of the Ukrainian Canadian her- itage of Western Canada. Ms. Grekul at first believed this was because there were no authors who wrote on the sub- ject, but later she learned that was not the case. She came to believe that literature about Ukrainian Canadians exists, but is not taught because it seemingly does not appeal to a universal audience. As Marc Horton, books editor for The Journal, discovered in his interview with Ms. Grekul, Colleen Lutzak, the main character in “Kalyna’s Song,” and its author share many similarities. Colleen is an excellent student, a fine musician and an independent thinker growing up in St. Paul. She, also like Ms. Grekul, is a member of a closely knit family proud of its ethnic roots. Like Ms. Grekul, Colleen attends the United World College in Swaziland at the age of 17, an experience that changes her forever. Ms. Grekul is currently working on her Ph.D. thesis on Ukrainian Canadian literature at the University of British Columbia. “Kalyna’s Song” is published by Coteau Books, is 385 pages in length, and can be purchased for $19.95. 24 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2003 No. 35

PREVIEW OF EVENTS

Wednesday, September 3 hill Rd., Jamaica Plain, Mass. Lunch will be served, and there will be a door prize. Soyuzivka’s Datebook NEWARK, N.J.: St. John’s Ukrainian Come and bring a friend. For more infor- August 25-September 1 Conference of Spartanky Montessori Preschool will begin its fif- Labor Day Week Plast Sorority mation, visit the website www.fatherjohn- teenth year of operation. This is an indi- foundation.org, or call (781) 944-9136. vidualized preschool program in the Donations are gratefully accepted and may August 30-31 September 28-30 Ukrainian language for children between be mailed to: Fr. John Danylevich Labor Day Weekend – Zabavas Reunion of Mittenwald Schools the ages of two and a half and five. For Foundation, Inc., 68 Pine Ridge Rd., with FATA MORGANA and further information contact Olenka Reading, MA 01867. TEMPO October 17-19 Makarushka-Kolodiy at (973) 763-1797. Saturday, September 13 Summer Heritage Concert with Plast-KPS Convention Friday, September 5 UKRAINA Dance Ensemble JENKINTOWN, Pa.: The Ukrainian from Canada October 31-November 2 CHICAGO: The Ukrainian Institute of Heritage School (Nasha Ukrainska Ridna Modern Art (UIMA) announces a two- Halloween Weekend Shkola) will begin the 2003-2004 academ- month celebration of modern Ukrainian art ic year at 9 a.m. at the Ukrainian September 8-11 costume party for youth and beginning on August 29. The event show- Regensburg Reunion costume zabava for all Educational and Cultural Center with a cases award-winning Lviv-based artists full day of classes. On this day parents Vasyl Bazhay (abstract painting) and may register new students, purchase September 12-14 November 7-9 Volodymyra Hankevych (artistic tapes- schoolbooks and speak with the school KLK Weekend and Annual Meeting Plast Orlykiada tries) in a premier U.S. exhibition. An administration or the school board. Bayreuth Gymnasium Reunion opening reception honoring the Illinois Parents and guardians may call the school November 15-16 Arts Council’s unwavering support of office (215) 663-5322 on Saturday morn- September 18-21 UACC UIMA will be held on Friday, September ing, September 6, for any further informa- Reunion of Salzburg Gymnasium 5, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Located at 2320 tion. W. Chicago Avenue, UIMA is open November 21-23 Sunday, September 14 September 26-28 UNA General Assembly Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. For more information about the NEW YORK: A gala concert celebrating events or UIMA, call (773) 227-5522 or Ukrainian Independence Day will be held visit the website at www.uima-art.org. at the Fashion Institute of Technology, Seventh Avenue and 27th Street in Tuesday, September 9, Manhattan beginning at 2:30 p.m. This and Saturday, September 13 “cultural event of the year” is co-spon- sored by the United Ukrainian Americans BOSTON: Volunteers are welcome to Organizations of Greater New York and help with a food and humanitarian aid the newly formed Ukrainian Studio of shipment to needy children, the disabled Drama in New York. The director of the and the elderly in Ukraine by Father John program, National Artist of Ukraine Ivan Danylevich Foundation. On Tuesday, Bernatsky, promises an inspiring and atyp- September 9, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., volun- ical event. Performers include the Dumka teers will sort food and aid, preparing Chorus directed by Vasyl Hrechinsky; them for packing. On Saturday, September Roma Pryma-Bohachevsky’s exciting 13, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., volunteers Syzokryli Dance Ensemble; renowned will pack the food and humanitarian aid pianist Volodymyr Vynnytsky; singers into boxes, as well as seal, weigh and label Lyubov Shchypchyk, Anna Bachynska and the approximately 5,000 pounds for ship- Roman Tsymbala; violinist Adrian ment. The sorting and packing will take Bryttan; and artists of the Ukrainian place in the basement of St. Andrew Studio of Drama, Volodymyr Kurylo and Ukrainian Orthodox Church, 24 Orchard- Lyudmila Hrabovska. BACK TO SCHOOL SPECIAL: A subscription to The Ukrainian Weekly! Give the college students in your family their own nine-month gift subscription to The Ukrainian Weekly. The Weekly is a great resource for students who plan to write college papers on topics about Ukraine, helps students keep in touch with the Ukrainian community throughout the United States and Canada, and gives students the opportunity to keep learning about their Ukrainian heritage once they leave home.

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