US-Belarus Observer 1

USJune-July 2016 -BELARUS OBSERVER

Belarus and the New Generation: Shaping the Future

World of Tanks: Belarus’ Online Revolution The Almanac:

Belarus’ Top 5 preserving Belarus Tourist p.20 Attractions 2 US-Belarus Observer Spotlight US-Belarus Observer 1 Publisher’s Note Readers of the premier US-Belarus Observer magazine: From the previous issues, you have likely understood that this is not a typical publica- tion, as it opens up the unusual world of an unknown country, of special people, as well as the unparalleled nature in which they live. Humans are unable to visit all of the places that they like within their lifetimes, but they are able to learn about them, and to virtually immerse themselves within them. On our planet Earth, there are many secrets, and it is impossible to learn of all of them. However, one wonderful secret, Belarus, is shared through this magazine. Knowing this secret will help everyone including politicians, businessmen, cultural people, and really any person who is interested in finding out about the wonders of our Earth and Life. Understanding this secret certainly makes us better and wiser, and this is exactly what is missing in our world today. So, let’s open up the pages of this US-Belarus Observer and, This is in doing so, open up the secret of Belarus. With continuous respect, Mikhail Morgulis

Belarus! We often get phone calls, and among these conversations, a few comments stand out: Bill, Veteran NBA Trainer: “I was in Belarus for a week, and only saw one percent of the country. But your magazine has opened up one hundred percent of this beautiful, peaceful land!”

Frank, Lawyer: “Your magazine is a Belarusian National Geographic. I really want to open up a business in Belarus.”

Ita, Regional Counsel, Florida: “With your magazine, you have found the path to my heart. I wait for the opportunity to go there and begin negotiations.”

Youth from the Belarusian church in North Port: “Thanks for the magazine. Our parents are from Belarus, but we were born in the United States. You definitely make the land of our ancestors interesting. We start to really love Belarus!”

Interested in Advertising with Us? Sarah, Actress: “My husband is Belarusian, and you have opened up this country to me.”

Brittney, College Student: Our magazine presents an ideal opportunity for American and Belarusian “I would like to do an exchange semester in Belarus. Am reading the magazine, and I really like it.”

businesses looking to expand and to reach a wider audience! Magazine Staff

We are also looking for advertising agents located Executive Editor: A.M. LaVey Public Relations: Juliette Jones US-Belarus Observer Magazine Translators: Elizabeth Barkell Gomez, Art Director: Mykhailo Kondratenko P.O. Box 7789 Marina Pustilnik Manager and Advertising Director: North Port, FL 34290 in America and agents in Belarus. Editorial Staff: Shinei Gibbs, Paul Petrovets Email: [email protected] Wendie Pecharsky, Aaron Swain Please find us on the web Chief Consultant: Mark Bazalev Publisher: Mikhail Morgulis at www.usbelarusobserver.com Produced by the Literary Courier This magazine is independently produced and is a non-profit publication If interested, please email [email protected] Interested in contributing? We welcome submissions to the magazine! Contact via mail or email (submissions in PDF format) 2 US-Belarus Observer Content Editors’ Letter US-Belarus Observer 3 CONTENT 4 Spotlight 1 publisher’s Note 3 editors’ Letter Politics 4 Belarus and the New Generation 6 from Belarus With Love 8 Business 8 Belarus’s fish king 12 The World of Tanks

Culture 16 The Belarusian Fortress: Power of The Human Spirit 20 The Almanac: A Unique Belarusian Anthology 12 24 festivals in Belarus 26 Top 5 Tourist Attractions of Belarus 30 look into the Future By Learning the Past Minsk, Belarus 34 a Titan of his Era – Francysk Skaryna of Polotsk 36 Theater in Belarus

Connection 40 WWII Belarusian Resistance Fighter 34 Editors’ Letter and His Courageous Mission We live in a time that celebrates the individual and a culture You’ll also read from a special report from Florida that the state Science that worships the self. While this isn’t a terrible thing all the time, has successfully set up bilateral opportunities for both countries, 42 The National Academy of Sciences of Belarus you won’t get far in this world all by yourself. Working with oth- including a new relationship between the cities of Gomel in Be- ers together, everyone achieves more is a common phrase here larus and Fort Myers in the Sunshine State. While focused mainly in the U.S., but it’s not just a phrase for some people – it’s their on economic topics, Fort Myers’ Mayor Randy Henderson high- Sports motto. lighted the importance of relationship building stating that even 44 children and Athletics in Belarus: The Next Generation It was President Franklin D. Roosevelt who said, “If civilization with all the bad things happening throughout the world, it’s im- 46 american Shoots for Olympic Glory is to survive, we must cultivate the science of human relationships portant to continue “reaching out, and creating a sense of love and 46 – the ability of all peoples, of all kinds, to live together in the same camaraderie around the globe.” with Belarusian Basketball Team world at peace.” In a similar shade, we are sharing the story of Lt. Nikolai Kiselev, Here at the US-Belarus Observer, our mission is to increase who helped save hundreds of Jewish people from the Nazis. At Final Thoughts Americans’ general knowledge about Belarus and its people. great danger to himself, Kiselev risked his life to lead this exodus Knowing a people and how they operate is key to mutual under- through the forests to safety. Although not well known through- 47 a Comedian’s Journey in Belarus standing. And this mutual understanding leads to opportunities out his life, we honor his heroism and share his story with read- 48 Thoughts on Belarusians to work together. And working together is becoming the norm, ers, in the hopes that it inspires every single reader to make a not the exception, even in America. For example, many compa- difference. If you would like to receive an electronic copy of each magazine issue, please subscribe by emailing us at [email protected] nies in the United States now interview by team matching. If you Finally, you will read about American professional basketball can’t work with others, you just aren’t desirable to bosses anymore. player, Lindsey Harding, and how she answered Belarus’s call to Corrections. In the three previous issues, the following photo credits were inadvertently omitted: In this issue, we will read about individuals who have dedicated join their team. Working together, this group of amazing athletes December 2015 – January 2016 issue their time, and for some, their lives to make the world a better are aiming for Olympic gold next month in Rio de Janeiro. Stay In the inside of the front cover, the photographer of the girl in national costume is Alexander Filiukov and all the other photographs are the intellectual property of the place by building relationships and working together. tuned, because we here at the US-Belarus Observer certainly will! Belarusian Telegraph Agency In an article on Belarus’s plan for long-term development, If at the end of this issue, you ponder what working together February – March 2016 issue Mikhail Morgulis opines that the future depends on youth and means in your life, consider that we are all in this together and we In the inside of the front cover, the photographer of all of the photographs is Oleg Kleschuk; on page 30 – 31, the photographs in the article “A City Brought From the Underground” are by photographer Oleg Kleschuk their ability to harness the powerful energy of their generation can all work together to change the world for the better. April – May 2016 issue in order to make the world a better place to live. Although this is In the inside of the front cover, all of the photographs are the intellectual property of the Belarusian Telegraph Agency; on page 44 – 47, the photographs in the article true for Belarus, this is also true for many countries including the Editorial Team “Belarus in the Ice Hockey Rink” are by photographer Andrei Zamzhitsky United States. US-Belarus Observer 4 US-Belarus Observer Politics Politics US-Belarus Observer 5

Mikhail Morgulis and Vladimir Makei, the Belarusian minister of foreign affairs

Meeting with children from Belarusian orphanages Mikhail Morgulis with children in Belarusian orphanage

Foundation. With the bloody events of my televised interview, I stated that this negatively and no longer perceive as sinful. neighboring Ukraine in its background, plan would not be realized unless there I add to this previous sentiment that many Belarus Belarus seemed like a peaceful oasis. We was a conscious effort by the new genera- criticize the new generation for its lack of attended the 5th All-Belarusian People’s tion of Belarusians. rationalization and practicality, but this is Assembly, in which 2,500 people from 50 I cited the example of the Belarusian actually unfair, as it is based on fear that different countries participated. Hi Tech Park, where there are currently they will break through the stereotypical and the New Generation In other words, it was a large meeting, 22,000 young people employed, some ways of life. To me, it seems that this new comprised of both Belarusians and friends working within computer programming. generation is purer than us, but no less tal- from all over the world. I was invited to In 2015, they had already earned the na- ented. represent the United States. tion billions of dollars. I think that the process of global trans- By Mikhail Morgulis The keynote speaker was President of I add to this that I was absolutely con- formation with the help of the novel en- Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, who in- vinced that there is a birth of a new, previ- ergy from the new generation will occur in troduced participants to the nation’s five- ously unknown energy within the world. all countries of the world. I also think that year development plan. It sounded almost The source of this energy is the new gen- only by using this new force will Lukash- uring my recent trip, I went to common language was lost, the language for their kindness. Of course, I also sym- audacious and sometimes almost fantasti- eration. This energy is being transformed enko be able to accomplish the goals of his three countries: Russia, Belarus of love. pathize for the particular suffering of Be- cal. into a modern, global power. This energy bold five-year plan. g and Ukraine, places where every- In Belarus, everything was peaceful and larusians that occurred because of World There were plans to make extensive use and power will sweep away all previous of the latest technological advances in or- ways of life, including the hardened forms one used to understand each oth- pleasant. I was greeted by the beautiful, War II. You can reach Mikhail Morgulis Der, regardless of the language they spoke. modern capital, Minsk. I have a soft spot Accompanying me was Rev. Mark Ba- der to change various areas of life and to of communication and habitual lies, to at [email protected] However, between Russia and Ukraine that for Belarus, for the humility of its people, zalev, vice-president, Spiritual Diplomacy dramatically lift the standard of living. In which we have long stopped reacting 6 US-Belarus Observer Politics Politics US-Belarus Observer 7

Gomel Delegation in Fort Myers Signing of Bilateral Business Partnership Agreement in Fort Myers

Within Miami, a series of events on do- component in fostering the sister city The visit by the Belarusian delega- ing business in the United States and in pact. Hand-picked by Mayor Henderson tion concluded in Orlando. A forum on the State of Florida were organized jointly and the Belarus delegation, Neymotin doing business in Belarus was held at with The Beacon Council, Miami-Dade was selected to be the intermediary for the Orange County’s National Entre- From Belarus County’s Official Economic Partnership the sister city agreement. Neymotin was preneur Center. The delegation also vis- and with the Belarus-USA Business Co- assisted by Leo Kremenchuker, a licensed ited the University of Central Florida’s operation Council. The delegation visited patent attorney in southwest Florida. Business Incubator prior to returning to several sites including the Port of Miami More than 50 public officials attended Belarus. and the Miami Free Zone. and participated in the event. This visit by a Belarusian delegation With Love In the cities of Coral Gables, Fort My- In regards to the Bilateral Business to the United States was just one more A report of the visit by a delegation from the Gomel region in Belarus ers, North Port and Venice, the delega- Partnership Agreement, Gomel was cho- step in building a better relationship be- tion held meetings with administrations sen by Fort Myers for its size and because tween Florida and Belarus. Prior to this, to the State of Florida on June 13 – 17, 2016. of cities and counties, as well as with rep- it is part of a free economic zone. Belarus’s the Belarusian State Chamber Orchestra, resentatives of business associations and exports to the United Sates include metal, directed by virtuoso conductor Evgeny companies. Sarasota County’s Chamber fabric and lumber, Neymotin said, while Bushkov, had several incredible perfor- of Commerce hosted the presentation of the U.S. is a major supplier of internal mances in Florida in May, including at ocated in the southeastern corner of The Belarusian delegation was headed The Belarusian delegation also included economic cooperation opportunities with combustion engines, automobiles, medi- an international festival, consisting of the Belarus, the city of Gomel is home by Boleslav Pirshtuk, deputy chair of the the directors of the leading enterprises Belarus and the Gomel Region. cal equipment and medicine to Belarus. best orchestras from all around the world. to approximately 500,000. Gomel Gomel Regional Executive Committee, within Gomel, specifically in metal pro- In the City of Fort Myers specifically, “The symbolic significance of this The Office of the Honorary Consul also is the second largest city in the na- and included Oleg Kravchenko, director of duction, dairy products, alcoholic bever- Randy Henderson and Pirshtuk, acting meeting was never more important than organized a performance in North Port, Ltion and one of six administrative centers. Americas Department, Ministry of Foreign ages, wood products, as well as a represen- on behalf of the City of Gomel, signed it is today, while we’re experiencing global Florida, which was attended by the Mayor The visit by the Belarusian delegation was Affairs, Pavel Shidlovsky, charge d’affaires tative of the Gomel-Raton Free Economic the Bilateral Business Partnership Agree- challenges with the recent events in Or- Jacqueline Moore. g aimed to develop mutually beneficial co- of the Embassy of Belarus to the USA, and Zone. There are six free economic zones ment between the two cities. Ita Neymo- lando,” Henderson said. “Those kinds of operation and was facilitated by Mikhail Henadz Chorny, representing the Mogi- spread throughout all major Belarusian tin, regional conflict counsel in the Office activities are not going to stop us from For more information: Morgulis, honorary consul to the Republic lev Branch of the Belarusian Chamber of cities, which provide benefits in taxes, cus- of Criminal Conflict and Civil Regional reaching out, and creating a sense of love [email protected] of Belarus. Commerce and Industry. toms and registration. Counsel in Fort Myers was a critical and camaraderie around the globe.” 8 US-Belarus Observer Business Business US-Belarus Observer 9

Alexander Moshensky

problems with deliveries of fish products, western Europe: their tastes deviated to- taste was the same one that the consumers and Mikhail jumped at the chance. In 1993 wards barrel-salted herring and spicy her- were used to. he founded Nila company, which began ring from Iceland, which in the past, Soviet Their old partners, the Abellman com- importing frozen fish from other places in authorities bartered for timber. pany, became the suppliers of unprocessed Belarus’s fish king Europe. “We were in charge of processing and raw fillets. Several months went into devel- Some time later, the two Moshenskys marketing of fish products, and the Ger- oping the right taste formulas. Marinade decided to expand the business. The re- mans provided us with technologies adapt- was replaced with vegetable oil. By com- sult of this decision was the establishment, ed to our Slavic tastes,” said Alexander bining salt and spices in different propor- By Yuri Tarasevich in 1995, of the Belarusian-Dutch joint Moshensky in one of his interviews. tions, the Belarusian specialists finally de- venture Santa Impex Brest, which was The duo became top sellers thanks to veloped a product line under the Matias founded by Nila and one of its Dutch sup- the innovative ideas of herring fillets in oil, brand: herring fillets with garlic, spices and pliers. Money flowed into the company’s herring rolls and capelin caviar in sauce. olive oil. One of the principal components t’s is unlikely that Alexander Mosh- But in 1990s Belarus, like other new One of the streets in Brest is named in accounts, but the two men realized that No such products had been available be- of their commercial success was the fact ensky, a young mathematician from countries from the recently dissolved Sovi- honor of his father, Mikhail Moshenksy, their monopoly on Belarus’s fresh-frozen fore either in Belarus or globally. that Moshenskys decided to make the new Brest, ever conceived that following et Union, these were one-of-a-kind times. the founder of Santa Impex Brest, which fish market would be short-lived. Plus, they “Mom would often buy barrel-salted herring products as affordable as possible, his graduation from the university he And decisions that were dictated by then includes the now famous Santa Bremor. believed that remaining a reseller could be herring. She would put it under the run- without sacrificing the high quality. Iwouldn’t be applying to graduate school present needs had some far-reaching con- Altogether, there are only two streets in a dead-end road. ning water to soak, and on the next day the The herring was packaged in plastic and and writing his thesis, but instead will sequences. Belarus named after businesspeople, and The idea to turn his trading business into herring would be cleaned, cut, and disem- polyethylene. The resulting product had a spend his days in the neighboring Poland, Some of the business people were raised there’s a good reason for this. production one came during a visit to one boweled. It was a rather lengthy process,” retail price of slightly more than one euro, processing herring at a factory. by these consequences to the pinnacle of If back in 1993, somebody would claim of the suppliers, the German company, Alexander remembers. which was much cheaper than herring fil- You would perhaps agree that at the age fleeting success, but ultimately brought that landlocked Belarus would become Abellman. Mikhail was surprised to dis- Everyone was doing that, and not just lets in glass jars. of twenty, even mathematicians with logic- crashing down. Others were taken on a one of eastern Europe’s largest producers cover that for decades the Germans have because they’ve gotten used to this, but The launch of Matias brand didn’t re- based thinking dream of other things. Did slow road to long-term success. Moshen- and exporters of fish products, that person been packaging herring fillets in glass jars because the ready-made fillets in glass jars quire a lot of investment. Father and son he anticipate back then that this experience sky still believes that proper business edu- would’ve been ridiculed. But the former and selling them, so the Belarusian busi- were more expensive and the taste wasn’t to spent the equivalent to several hundred would propel him into the top five of the cation would’ve helped him more, but he head of the engineering design bureau of nessman decided to try a similar product everyone’s liking. thousand dollars, earned from frozen fish country’s most influential businessmen and had strategic vision and business acumen the Brest Electromechanical Plant, the el- in Belarus. The company’s technicians had to deal deliveries, to buy the fillet filling line, which help him to establish a produce empire with from the very beginning. Plus, he had his der Moshensky did something that seemed Why similar and not precisely the same? with many challenges. They had to find the was installed at a leased facility in Brest. more that 10,000 employees and capitaliza- father — his anchor, advisor and business impossible. Following the collapse of the Because Belarusians weren’t used to the packaging that was cheaper than glass jars. But however good the final product, tion of almost $1 billion? Probably not. partner. Soviet Union, Belarus experienced serious marinated herring that became a staple in And they had to make sure that the herring it still had to be sold and it took a lot of 10 US-Belarus Observer Business Business US-Belarus Observer 11

At Seafood Expo Global, Brussels, Belgium

marketing efforts to make the consumers player, and the supplier to the markets of Alexander Moshensky greeted us with Although ice-cream production accounts This is why he believes that to be success- some lucky breaks,” he said. “But tomor- appreciate Belarusian fish. Russia, Ukraine, Moldova and other Com- a welcoming smile, and he didn’t look like for five percent of the overall production ful, any company has to look beyond the row that’s not going to be enough. With “We would open the packages up, hold monwealth of Independent States coun- your typical respectable businessman in a volumes, it allows the enterprise to keep its domestic market and strive to export. It’s many things, it’s as if we’re reinventing the tastings in stores and at the open-air mar- tries. That was the least-value objective. The suit — instead he was young, athletic and working rhythm all year round. no coincidence that Santa Bremor deliv- wheel. Many victories are secured because kets — anywhere we could, really. We tried best-scenario goal for their business was to wearing jeans. But watching his inward- The story of Moshensky’s further success ers its products to the U.S., Israel, Canada, we are like the 300 Spartans, we are at to convince people that it’s cost-efficient to introduce their products to the European looking eyes, you could see that despite his is not about chasing fast money, but about Germany, New Zealand and others. home, we know how things work here. This buy fillet instead of the whole fish, and that and global markets. With this in mind, San- smiling face his heart was grieving, but the building the edifice of a large business Iceland has paid its respect to Alexander is why we should try and adopt western our fillets are tastier,” Alexander remem- ta Bremor was registered in the Brest free young businessman warmed up and began holding. Over the year, he’d created the Moshensky’s creativity by making him the methodological and technological know- bers. After several years of hard work, the trade zone. telling us about his plans, which, after all second part of his foodstuff empire — the country’s honorary consul in Belarus. He hows as soon as possible.” company lived to see its hour of triumph. At the turn of the new millennium, the those years, have fully come to fruition. dairy company Savushkin Product, then has become something of a national hero Being a true businessman, Moshen- By mid-1998, the volume of Matias herring new production plant was finally opera- After that, we were invited to have a taste he bought the Russian Sea company from for the descendants of the Vikings, when sky dreams of creating a system that will annual sales reached 4,000 tons. tional. But the joy of its launch was mixed of the Belarusian herring. But instead of Gennady Timchenko, entrenching himself he came up with the idea to utilize capelin outlive its creator. He’s not afraid of un- When crisis hit Russia and Belarus, father with grief. Mikhail died following two traditional boiled potatoes, the herring on the Russian market. caviar. Some time ago, the Japanese bought fair competition or economic crises. and son made a counterintuitive decision heart attacks, and the large-scale operations was accompanied by some tasty-looking Finally he had built in Brest a new plant some of this caviar, but the rest found no Ultimately, he says, success is all about — instead of slowing down production, passed on to Alexander. ice-cream – a strange combination, to say for production of herring fillet products. demand. It was Moshensky who created character. they geared up for expansion. It so happened that soon after this turn the least. It turned out that the ice-cream The plant is unique and has no analogues a whole product line using capelin caviar, “If you decide to become a business- “We remembered America’s example, of events, I visited Brest together with an was also produced by Santa Bremor as part in Western Europe. It is equipped with and now this delicacy sells very well in man, you shouldn’t expect anything,” he where crises were always followed by years American delegation. As our minibus was of the owner’s diversification efforts. Every the newest Dutch and Icelandic specialty Belarus, Russia, Ukraine and elsewhere. It said. “That’s the strategy in a nutshell. If of explosive economic growth,” Alexander driving through the old city and we passed year, the summertime slump in demand equipment made to order. seems that soon the consumers will come you’re an expert in your field and you explains. through city outskirts, our guide said: “This for the fish products forced the company “In order to succeed, even in times of to fully appreciate another of company’s see that you can monetize it yourself — They decided to open their own seafood- is the free trade zone.” To tell you the truth, to consider the question of its dealership crisis, you have to decrease the produc- inventions — krill paste. Altogether, this go for it. If you’re an expert in your field, processing plant. This required investments the views outside the bus window were not network that struggled to sell the herring tion costs and create innovative products food empire has a portfolio of more than but you don’t see how to make a business of $6 million, but the businessmen only had particularly breathtaking as we continued products. that allow you to fight for the consumers 900 original products. out of it — look for partners. But if you $750 thousand. To raise the necessary sum, to drive past the quiet Belarusian country- Belarus, however, was experiencing a and collect additional added value through Nonetheless, Alexander himself is very put the lifetime project on the back burn- they established a new joint venture with side. But everything changed when we were shortage of ice cream, and so Moshensky know-how, technology, trademark, and di- modest about his achievements, because er — that’s like putting your whole life the German partners and this was the birth invited into the workshops of Santa Bremor. bought Italian technology, combining Be- versification of sales markets,” said Mosh- he measures them on a scale greater than there.” g of Santa Bremor. This didn’t look like a herring-processing larusian milk with Polish jam, chocolate, ensky. “What’s the best way to swim — with Belarus. Plant construction began in 1999. The facility; it looked like a sterile operating the- and other natural ingredients, and suc- the current or against it? Well, the best way “Today I am assisted by a good classical For more information go to owners envisioned it as both a domestic ater or a spaceship manufacturing facility. cessfully conquered another market niche. to swim is in the direction that you need.” education along with lucky genetics and www.en.santa-bremor.com The World of Tanks

By Yuri Maximov 14 US-Belarus Observer Business Business US-Belarus Observer 15

identify with mystical characters, but not even more than a brand; it’s public prop- fact in that firstly, Belarusians are a modest with a hunk of iron. erty now. The tank itself became an entity, people. We understand the balance in this Fortunately, the evolution of the web something separate and independent – the fragile world: Today there is peace, but to- helped. Games that previously were sold existence makes the heart beat faster. It’s morrow a war might start. We can also see boxed now could be purchased online, and like soccer. It’s like hockey or American this in our literature and in our history. Go therefore, one could get around utilizing football.” to Minsk and ask people how they feel. We a traditional publisher. However, exactly a Understanding that the development value a peaceful life and do not waste time. month before the launch of the game, the of market success requires constantly Secondly, after World War II, the country Belarusian programmers who were ready strengthening your position in the face of lay in ruins and many technological enter- to conquer the world ran out of money. $10 competition, and most importantly keep- prises had to be started up in Belarus. Elec- millon had been invested in the project, but ing millions of users interested in the game, tronics also became an industry, as did the as it happens, it wasn’t quite enough. Vic- Wargaming did not lose momentum and production of the renowned heavy trucks, tor borrowed from anyone he could – fam- did everything so that people, rather than military factories and much more. When ily and friends. Finally, he remembers, “At growing bored with the tanks, grew to de- the Soviet Union collapsed, Belarus already midnight, on August 13th, 2010, we pulled light in them even more. The company took possessed serious technical, engineering, the switch and the tanks were rolling.” part in an exhibition at the British Museum and scientific potential. This ensured that The model of marketing, thought up by of Tanks. Not too long ago, partnering with the country had strong universities, techni- Victor and his colleagues, started earning the Tank Museum in Kubinka, Russia, the cal colleges, and even a strong school sys- money. As for those “hunks of iron…?” group began restoration on the giant Ger- tem.” “I don’t know,” Victor states, “if there was man tank Maus. Additionally, Wargaming Kislyi also discusses Belarus’s potential. magic in the tanks or if we just managed contributes to many restorations of art and “Take my father, for example – he is a man to make a really good product. Now more of science,” Kislyi said. “I also enrolled in than 80 million people around the world a college physics course, and I personally play: In China, in the Czech Republic, in know that we have a wonderful founda- Russia, in Japan and in many other coun- tion. Belarusian teams of new program- tries – people emotionally identify with the mers consistently rank among the best tanks. It is projected that there will soon be and are awarded prizes. As it happens, my 100 million players. We are proud that we brother studied applied mathematics and he small European country of constructed a compelling story about the “There were five or six of us who lived to- made it into the Guinness Book of World was friends with a bunch of mathemati- Belarus, located between Russia, liberation of Belarus from the Nazis. The gether in one room on a small stipend,” he Records.” cians and a lot of them have come to work Ukraine, Poland and Lithuania, next game was for American players, and said. “My father helped with a bit of pocket The game is designed so that the player for us. You can joke that because there are occupies an area with no access it was renamed Order of War. In it, we money. At that time in Belarus, in the 90s, a can simply have fun and enjoy the process no special resources in Belarus – well, ex- Tto the sea. Yet, the Belarusian lands are talked about Normandy, where the Ameri- programmer made about $25 a month. We without spending any actual money. The cept the forest – we have to use our brains. washed by all the seas and oceans of the can troops landed and liberated France. worked and made what we could, just to company encompasses soft monetization, Like our President said, just because you world. How can this be? If you talk to the And so, step by step, we came up with the keep from starving. We dreamed of mak- and 70 - 75 percent of gamers will never poke a stick in the ground does not mean fans of the game World of Warships, you idea of World of Tanks. You can find plenty ing a game for everyone that would cap- pay anything for the game. Victor notes oil will flow out.” will understand why. All over the world, of games where players running around ture the world. However, it was really just that that is considered normal by the com- There are games that teach violence. The in America, Europe and even Africa, gam- shooting each other. We decided, ‘Let’s deal enthusiasm because we lacked a technical pany. The unobtrusive monetization and, tank, sea and air battles in Victor Kislyi’s ers enjoy this enterprise, but the most im- with tanks! Let the machines fight.’ We had education.” of course, the appeal of the game itself, games teach the user to think strategically portant part of this ocean armada happens no idea how it would take off!” At first, the young Belarusian design- have led to great success. Money, which at and to be detail-oriented. Moreover, the to be a land vehicle – the armored tank. A Victor became familiar with computers ers followed the trodden path. They set first trickled in, is now flowing in, but the player understands that cooperation is im- tank?! Yes, because that is exactly how it at the end of high school. He remembers, out to create a game universe where elves team wasn’t able to rest on their laurels. The Victor Kisliy portant and that winning on one’s own is started, and it all started in Belarus. “In the science lab where my dad worked, would fight orcs and other mythical crea- game needed continued support and nour- very difficult. A long time ago, some of the toughest there were computers… old and paunchy. tures. They even got so far as to make the ishment and refreshing, new content. The monuments from World War II, calling the “Other games acquaint the younger gen- tank battles of the last world war took place And they had the very first simplistic first sketches with the help of Australian growing popularity meant that the compa- project, So That We Remember. “We hold eration with unreal virtual war, but our on the long-suffering Belarusian lands. Af- games, the type where a king rules his consultants. The elves would shoot a bow ny had to enter markets in many different almost all of our meetings with our sup- goal is for kids who play the game to re- ter defeating the Nazis, the war machines kingdom. Then, computer clubs appeared and a giant would run at them swinging a countries. The headquarters of Wargaming porters in museums,” Victor Kislyi tells member that real war is different, that there were sent to the smelter or turned into and they had video games; someone runs club. Preparing this work took ten months, are now in Cyprus, and Victor now owns us. “Museums get the revenue, and we get is blood, tears, and death. We want to make monuments, but the memory of the war re- somewhere, shoots, and flies off in a space- but instead of making a fantasy world, the 16 offices around the world, including in the opportunity to hold tournaments, chat sure that no one forgets that war is real and mains. When a young programmer, Victor ship somewhere. We boys adored these designers put together a small video, which San Francisco, Chicago, Baltimore, Seattle about tanks, look at them, and sometimes that the costs are terrible,” Victor states. Kisliy, from Minsk, the capital of Belarus, games; they enthralled an entire genera- quickly went viral. In the video, a powerful and Austin. 4,000 people work for the com- even ride in one. In Belarus, we even re- Belarus offers immense business pros- decided to create his own virtual war game, tion!” orc triumphs over his opponent, but then pany, of which his father holds position as stored the famous Soviet T-34 tank, and it pects, for those who can comprehensively he had no doubts what type of fighting ve- Interest in these games led Victor to the a tank appears and flattens the orc into a one of the co-owners. took part in the Victory Parade.” view the gaming industry and its evolu- hicle he would choose to feature. idea of creating his own games. pancake. “In Cyprus, the sea is 30 minutes away in In one interview, Victor Kislyi calls the tion. The compound talents of Belarusian “The games that our company, Wargam- The father of Belarus’s first billionaire The amusing teaser became the first step any direction by car. According to history, Wargaming company “cosmopolitan.” creators and programmers who work with ing, creates are smart games,” Victor says. played a large role in helping his son learn to a new game, but the path to develop- Aphrodite emerged from the foam not far However, for all its transnational nature, the foreign management comprise a huge syn- “They are not bloody and full of garbage. to think both logically and creatively at the ment turned out to be far from easy. Vic- from us,” jokes Victor. Despite the proximi- company, like its founder, remains closely ergy. Who knows, maybe in the near fu- We design strategic, tactical teamwork. Be- same time. At a young age, he enrolled Vic- tor traveled all over the world, trying to ty of the sea and the fact that warships have tied to the Belarusian lands. It’s noteworthy ture, Belarus will become not only a coun- fore tanks, our most famous title was Op- tor in chess school, and later helped Victor find a publisher for his game. However, the become part of his gaming universe, Vic- that not only the creators of World of Tanks, try of risen tanks, but also the first country eration Bagration, which was a World War choose an education in the technical sector. idea of any tanks within the game didn’t tor’s brand remains centered on the tank. but other major gaming companies in the in the world whose gaming space fleet will II offensive named after a Russian general At university, Victor found like-minded sit well with prospective investors. Players, “We were able to make the adventure game industry, have strong Belarusian roots. Vic- defend the planet from invaders from deep who won the battle against Napoleon. We friends. the businessmen felt, could emotionally of tanks a phenomenon,” Victor says. “It’s tor clarifies, “I am inclined to explain this space. g The Belarusian Fortress: POWER OF THE HUMAN SPIRIT

By Valery Mikheev 18 US-Belarus Observer Culture Culture US-Belarus Observer 19

340 feet obelisk, symbolizing victory The ruins of the fortress, preserved as a memorial

Sculpture called “Thirst”

n the history of every country, there The fortress inhabitants fought with un- you can see that every brick of the garrison are events that will never be forgotten. wavering dignity. They commanded the and fortification remains charred from fire For example, in American history, im- defense through difficult conditions, with and riddled with scars from shells, bullets portant events include the Civil War, no support or assistance from the outside. and bombs. The fighting continued until Ithe moon landing and 9/11. There are simi- These guardians of the fortress suffered the final bullet and the last drop of blood. lar milestones in Belarus. One such event, from limited supplies of food, ammuni- The walls of the underground encase- which is memorialized, is the defense of tion, medical supplies and water. The sol- ments still show farewell inscriptions from Inside the museum Brest Fortress against Hitler’s army. diers and officers displayed remarkable the combatants: “We will die, but we will The fortress was historically used to courage, bravery and determination. not run,” “I’m dying, but I will not give up. protect Belarus from invaders, following Shoulder to shoulder, representatives Goodbye homeland! Goodbye Belarus!” its construction in the early 19th century. of more than 30 nationalities fought: Be- “There are only three of us left. We know One stand displays a document, known as defeat actually occurred at Brest Fortress in conducted with liturgies and worshippers Even so, the most famous battle in the his- larusians, Russians, Ukrainians, Kalmyks, that we are dying, but we will not lose our the Memo of a German Soldier. German Belarus. make exalted calls for peace and harmony. tory of Brest Fortress occurred on June Georgians, Moldovans and many others. spirit, and we will die heroes.” Nazis believed that no one in the world As is often said in Belarus: No one is for- The church is constantly lit with candles, 22nd, 1941. This was the day Hitler waged After having marched victoriously through The castle lay in ruins after being shelled could stand up to their army, as evident gotten, nothing is forgotten! It has been al- reminding people of the tragedy and also war against the Soviet Union. most of Europe, the German army met ex- for more than a month. To ensure the by the words found in this document: “We most 75 years since the beginning of those connecting people together. These candles With no warning, Nazi troops attacked at treme resistance for the first time, when complete destruction of its warriors, the will force the entire world to its knees. We tragic events. are always burning, in order to awaken in the border of Brest, in southwestern Belar- it faced this unprecedented self-sacrifice German soldiers flooded the cellars of the will decide the fate of England, Russia, and The city of Brest also created a memo- human hearts, reminders of the past and of us. This began, arguably, the most ambitious of soldiers defending their homeland. Be- fortress with water from the neighboring America… according to how they benefit rial and a monument to the defenders of duty, of the love of God, the homeland, and and unbelievably cruel war in human his- sieged in the castle, the men stayed in un- river. Germany. Destroy every resistant living Brest Fortress. Tourists and visitors from of their relatives and friends. tory, World War II, lasting about six years. derground dungeons to resist the attacks, Overall, the fortress was heroically de- thing in our path. Tomorrow the whole 130 countries attended the opening of the Of course, it is really to remind us all that The garrison in Brest Fortress only num- day after day. The Germans suffered heavy fended for an entire month. More than a world will kneel before us.” memorial. Each year the Museum of the there is not only the memory of the mind, bered 7,000 – 8,000 defenders, who entered losses during this outset of war. thousand of its defenders were killed dur- Such bitter truths of history should Defense of Brest Fortress is visited by about but also that of the heart. g into an unequal battle with the enemy. The With impotent rage, Hitler’s men used up ing the fight with the Nazi army. On No- never be forgotten. The Nazi invaders, one million people. Restoration of the ter- Nazis brought 30,000 troops with tanks, ar- an entire arsenal, attempting to destroy the vember 8th, 1956, the Museum of the De- with their plans of world domination, ritory of the fortress continues. More than You can reach Valery Mikheev tillery and aircraft. The invaders expected to defenders and then began to use fire. They fense of Brest Fortress was opened, in order eventually encountered their own destruc- 170 acres of the area will gradually be at [email protected] implement their surprise attack in the early used napalm, gasoline and flamethrowers, to memorialize these events. tion at the hands of the people of Amer- turned into a memorial park. For more information: morning hours, which would allow them to reducing many of their opponents to ashes. The main focus of the museum centers ica, the United Kingdom and the Soviet In the center of the fortress, a Chris- http://www.brest-fortress.by/en/ capture the fortress with lightning speed. It was an absolutely hellish battle. Even now on condemning aggression and violence. Union. Even so, the beginning of Hitler’s tian church stands. Here, services are 20 US-Belarus Observer Culture Culture US-Belarus Observer 21

mong the many currently pub- region, such as Belovezhskaya Forest, which Moreover, to this day in the villages and lished works in Belarus, an an- borders the Western Bug River and legend- towns the locals communicate in a unique thology of local lore entitled the ary swamps of Pripyat River, evoke pride Polesian way, which is also a transitional “Ostromechevskaya Manuscript,” and delight in every person who hears about dialect of the Eastern Slavic languages. The The Almanac: Aor the Almanac, attracted great attention in them. dialect adds color to ancient and authentic its fourth year of quarterly issuance. The Al- On the banks of large rivers and the hills regional songs and ceremonies. manac hailed from a small region in Brest of unspoiled nature mostly encompassed of Scientists believe that archaic Slavic songs A Unique Belarusian Anthology located on the southwestern border of Be- lakes and lowland swamps, medieval castles, of Polesie predate the Egyptian pyramids, larus, an area also called Western Polesie. ancient manor houses and parks stand pre- and the folk customs and traditions of the This ancient land teems with forests and served. The area aptly carries the names area reveal strong pagan roots. By Alex Zinkevich wetlands, rivers and lakes, legends and of “The Lungs of Europe” or “The Sea of Here, side by side, dwell forgotten myths. Even the names of places in the Herodotus”. Christian churches and active parishes 22 US-Belarus Observer Culture Culture US-Belarus Observer 23

Inna Swede, a professor, Editor Alexander Volkovich A.S. Pushkin Brest State University

Expedition with philology students Expedition to uncover folklore

– Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant, and in the official government languages of Krakow University in Poland. Professor together with philology students from and other cultural and historical buildings Maldis and Inna Swede, a professor at the even Jewish temples and Islamic mosques. Belarusian and Russian, the Polesian dia- Adam Maldis, who has a doctorate in phi- A.S. Pushkin Brest State University, we along with archaic objects.” Belarusian Literary Department of A.S. In the Brest region lie the roots of the lect is predominant and the one that is lology, discovered the document in 1964. go on an expedition to uncover folklore In 2014, the Almanac received several Pushkin Brest State University. great Russian writer Fyodor Dostoyevsky, mostly used. The Almanac appears simi- Maldis showed that the historical roots, of the region. We take notes on songs accolades on the Day of Belarusian Writ- TheAlmanac not only stands as a unique artist and musician, Napoleon Orda, and lar to a textbook, according to the editor, or birthplace of the manuscript, lie in the and legends of the area and keep logs of ten Language, a holiday which is intended historical collection, but represents the na- freedom fighter, Tadeusz Kosciuszko. Poet Alexander Volkovich of Brest Produced. village Ostromechevo of the current Brest memories from the elderly. We then print to demonstrate the unity of the Belarusian tional cultural heritage of Belarus. It is also Alexander Blok and writer Aleksandr Volkovich has himself authored many ar- district (hence its name “Ostromechevs- these in the local dialect, the same lan- written word and the history and culture certainly one of the main historical and Kuprin also nurtured their creativity for ticles and books on Belarusian Polesie. kaya Manuscript”). This discovery was guage of our ancestors, which we are try- of the Belarusian people. The Almanac cultural symbols of the entire Brest region, some time in this alcove. The Almanac actually has a longer his- highlighted in a number of publications in ing to preserve. We craft antiquated folk received the award of Best in Regional along with such representative landmarks The confined corner of Polesie, saturat- tory than its current issuance, as it is the national and foreign press. arts, and talk about regional poets, folk Works, and Alexander Volkovich earned a as the Holocaust Museum, the Museum ed with myths and legends, talented indi- named after an archival document which “For the concept of a local historical artists and musicians. We write down the first-place award for his series of articles in Complex of Napoleon Orda, and the do- gents, provincial songs, music, beliefs and dates back to 1640 – 1670 A.D. This docu- almanac,” said Volkovich, “we employed words and music of local artists. In re- the anthology. micile of world famous writer Fyodor Dos- cultural history, is particularly unique. ment was a compilation of Belarusian Cy- a very broad meaning. The themes of the viewing these historical experiences, we The founders of the Almanac include toyevsky located in the Ivanovo district of But let’s return to the Almanac. What rillic songs, chants, instrumental works journal center on historical events, pro- discover not only the forgotten names of the Brest Regional Executive Committee, the Brest region. g makes it unequalled? and dance music of the time period. This vincial culture, folklore, and ethnography. famous countrymen, but also the stories comprised of the Department of Ideologi- The theme of the published mate- 17th century collection is also known as Works can be about music, spoken word of bygone ordinary citizens. Their fates cal Cultural and Youth Affairs of Brest, and You can reach Alexander Volkovich rial centers most particularly on Western “Manuscript 127/56” and can currently poetry, choreography and arts or the lit- tell the true story of our country. We re- the Brest District House of the Arts. The at [email protected] Polesie, and while some works are written be found in the Jagiellonian Library at erary heritage of Polesie. Each summer, construct the history of ravaged churches project managers of the Almanac include 24 US-Belarus Observer Culture Culture US-Belarus Observer 25

festival (in the village of Avtyuki in Gomel region), and folk art festival (in the Oktyabrsky district of Gomel re- gion), has become an important compo- nent of the program for revival of small Belorussian towns. The annual July celebration Kupalye - Alexandria Brings Friends Together, which traditionally takes place in the Alexandria agricultural settlement in Mogilev region, serves as a meeting ground for the fraternal peoples of Be- larus, Russia, Ukraine and the Baltic countries. The historical knightly festivals (Knight Fest at Mstislavl, international festival Our Grunwald, as well as Medi- eval Minsk and Golshansk Castle) are well-liked by the locals and draw large crowds from the near and far abroad. Knight Fest at Mstislavl What Belarusian doesn’t dream of becoming a cowboy? In 2016, Belarus hosted its sixth celebration of cowboy culture known as the Golden Spur Ro- deo. Anyone could have some real fun in the saloon, “bash” the sheriff’s face, ogle the saloon owner’s daughter, and go off to fight the Indians before the sheriff came to his senses and took away their Colt gun… Larger cities also play active part in the country’s cultural life. There is a choreography festival at Gomel, an Or- thodox chants and Christian music fes- tival in Minsk, theater festivals in Brest Belarusian summer festival and Minsk. The capital also hosts the Minsk International Film Festival and Children and Youth Film Festival, as well as many other artistic and poetic events. But the trademark of modern Be- Golden Spur Rodeo larus is definitely the Slavianski Bazar, or international festival, which marked Festivals in Belarus its 25th anniversary this year. In the quarter century of its existence, the celebration became a favorite summer By Andrei Karpovich tradition, and each year great musicians and performers from all over the world gather in Vitebsk. Belarusian government believes festi- vals play an important role in the pro- elarusian culture occupies a spe- The country is proud to have pre- Nesvizh, in the old estate of the Radzi- motion of national culture and interna- cial place among its Eastern Eu- served its historical folklore. National will family, or near the ancient castles in tional cultural cooperation. Speaking ropean siblings. For centuries, songs, dances, legends, games, proverbs the towns of Polotsk, Zaslavl, Mir and at the opening ceremony of the jubi- the people of Belarus have held and sayings have all made it to moder- Turov. lee Slavianski Bazaar on July 14, 2016, Bsacred the traditions of their ancestors. nity, and found a new life through the In recent years, the government has President Alexander Lukashenko noted: To this day, they observe ancient pagan regular folk festivals. gotten closely involved in festival ac- “We pay special attention to the promo- rituals, such as Maslenitsa (winter send- The staging of the festivals is tied to tivities. Organization of republican tion of national art, conservation of folk off), Kupalye (midsummer celebration), the traditions of the country’s differ- festivals, such as the folk dance festival traditions and creative achievements of Kolyady (Christmas Eve trick-or-treat- ent regions, and they usually take place (in the town of Chechersk in Gomel re- our ancestors. This is why we have every ing), Dozhinki (celebration of harvested among architectural and historical at- gion), folk music festival (in the town of right to say that our country is the cita- Concert at summer festival crops), and many others. tractions, for example, in the town of Postavy in Vitebsk region), folk humor del of traditional culture.” g Culture US-Belarus Observer 27 Top 5 Tourist Attractions of Belarus

By Jadwiga Blotskaya

Belovezhskaya Forest

t’s a common misconception that white stone watchtower Bielaja Vieza conquerors, including the Vikings, Na- Belarus, located in the very heart of that was built in the 13th century. It’s be- poleon and Nazis. Europe, is not a large country. How- lieved that this tower gave name to the Polotsk is one of the historic Christi- ever, its area is actually greater than whole forest. anity centers of the Eastern Slavic lands. Ithat of Austria, Hungary, Czech Repub- By the way, if you think that human- It was the birthplace of the eminent lic, Belgium or the Netherlands. Belarus ity began to worry about environmental enlighteners of the Belarusian people is not just one of Europe’s oldest regions, protection just recently, you are, in fact, — Euphrosyne of Polotsk, the first Be- it’s also one of the few that managed to wrong. Back in the 14th century, Jogaila, larusian woman to be canonized, and preserve their pristine nature. the Grand Duke of Lithuania, declared the first Belarusian printer Francysk In the Middle Ages, the lands populat- the forest under protection and forbade Skaryna. ed by the ancestors of modern-day Be- hunting there. The town is located in a picturesque larusians were known as a Land of cas- Belovezhskaya Forest National Park is spot, where Polota River flows into tles. Today, Belarus is most often called a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a Western Dvina. Overlooking the town the blue-eyed land of thousands of lakes. status of biosphere reserve. It’s home to stands the Cathedral of Saint Sophia, Thanks to the forests that cover one more than 900 species of plants, includ- built in the 11th century. Such majestic third of its territory and unique swamps, ing endangered ones, and dozens of spe- cathedrals were only found in ancient Belarus is known as Europe’s lungs. cies of rare mammals and birds. Kiev and Novgorod. In the course of its Its nature draws the fans of environ- Forest is especially famous for its an- almost millennial history, the cathedral mental tourism from all over the world, cient named oaks, which are more than had been ruined in the course of numer- and if you choose Belarus as your next 500 years old. And don’t forget about ous wars, but was always rebuilt. vacation destination, you’ll be sure to Europe’s largest population of European In the years of the Great Northern War have a great time. Let’s talk about five of wood bisons, the relatives of American (1700-1721), Russian Emperor used the the top attractions of this amazing land. ones, this relic species, which was saved cathedral as gunpowder warehouse, and from extinction on the premises of the when the warehouse exploded, the ca- 1. Belovezhskaya Forest forest. thedral spent almost twenty years in ru- These are the remains of the huge pri- ins. During the war of 1812, Napoleon’s mordial forest, which once stretched 2. Polotsk army used the church as horse stables. from the Baltic Sea to the Bug River, and This is the eldest of the five Belarusian Modern-day visitors to the cathedral from Oder River to the Dnieper. The towns with a 1000-year history. Polotsk will find themselves face to face with first written mentions of Belovezhskaya was first mentioned in A.D. 862 in the restored ancient frescoes that adorn its Forest are dated A.D. 983. It’s the largest Primary Chronicle (The Tale of Bygone walls. The cathedral is just one of Po- forest in Central Europe. At a distance of Years). In close to twelve centuries of lotsk’s multiple attractions. Oh, and the twelve miles from the forest, stands the its existence, the town survived numer- scientists say that the town stands in the Nesvizh Castle town of Kamyenyets with its 100-foot ous invasions from a diverse array of geographical center of Europe. 28 US-Belarus Observer Culture Culture US-Belarus Observer 29

first paintings, personal belongings of the artist and his family. Vitebsk is also home to Marc Chagall Art Center, located in the old building that was depicted in the internationally acclaimed painting “Over the Town.” The museum is home to an ex- tensive collection of Chagall’s drawings.

5. Nesvizh Castle Nesvizh Castle is complex with varied architecture and is one of Europe’s largest parks; with its decorative lakes and shad- owy alleys, it’s one of the most beautiful places in all of Belarus. The first stone was laid in 1583. Back then, the town of Nes- vizh was owned by the wealthy and im- portant clan of Radziwill. The castle, surrounded by the high, almost 70-foot bulwark, has undergone numerous reconstructions, and the result was a palace that combines the features of different architectural styles — Renais- sance, Baroque, Rococo, Neo-Classicism, Polotsk Marc Chagall Museum the Gothic revival, and even some Mod- ernist notes. The castle was used to store the archives of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, and its 3. Braslaw Lakes area, depth, composition and clarity of left behind a lot of stones, some of which Endangered Species. Among the great immortalized in Chagall’s paintings along library had about 20,000 books by 1770. water. are great big boulders. The largest of them variety of birds, the black stork, the mute with his famous levitating angels and lov- Today, the architectural ensemble of the The largest lake region of Belarus, lo- For their unusual beauty, these lakes are weighs more than 40 tons! swan and the beautiful great egret espe- ers. Nesvizh Castle is one of UNESCO’s World cated in the Braslaw district, is famous called the “blue necklace” of Belarus. 74 The lake shores are covered with fur- cially stand out. The Braslaw lakes are To understand why Vitebsk had re- Heritage Sites and a historic-and-cultural for its scenery and terrain. Twenty thou- lakes are located within the borders of the trees and pines, century-old oaks and famous for their great variety of fish. The mained the inexhaustible source of in- reserve. Nesvizh is also home to the famed sand years ago, this area was covered national park. Their total area is 50 square birch-tree groves. The park is also home national park offers special tour pack- spiration throughout the artist’s life, you Corpus Christi Church. The church, built by an ancient glacier, hundreds of feet miles, and the deepest of the lakes has a to many animal and bird species. The ages for hunters and fishermen, who can should visit the Marc Chagall house mu- in the very beginning of the 17th century, in depth. But with time the glacier re- depth of over 130 feet. The lakes are inter- visitors can spot moose and boars, bad- leave the Braslaw district with some very seum located there. It exhibits the every- houses the crypt of the Radziwill dynasty, treated north, leaving behind it dozens connected by picturesque rivers, springs gers and bobcats, and sometimes even unique trophies. day objects from the turn of 19th and 20th and with 72 members of the family buried of lakes — all of them different in shape, and watercourses. The glacier had also the brown bears listed in the Red List of Since the dawn of time, the ancestors of centuries, as well as the real “witnesses” of there it’s Europe’s third largest crypt after modern-day Belarusians had lived in har- Chagall’s life — archival documents and those of Habsburgs and Bourbons. g mony with the surrounding nature, but, through their residence at the crossroads Braslaw Lakes National Park of commercial routes, were open to the Nesvizh Castle influence from other culture. It is quite probable that this dual nature had helped to make Belarusians especially hospitable. One only has to come here to appreciate the geniality of the local people, and the nature of Belarus will, no doubt, forever enchant you with its beauty.

4. Marc Chagall Museum Rushing across a garden square in downtown Chicago past the famous “Four Seasons” mosaic, with its flying people and fish, the passers by often have no idea that these are the images from the far- away Vitebsk, brought to life by the world- famous artist Marc Chagall, who was born in this Belarusian town. Church cupolas and ancient streets, miniature houses and shop signs, the ribbons of wooden fences and carriage drivers have all been Look into the Future By Learning the Past

By Irina Webster 32 US-Belarus Observer Culture Culture US-Belarus Observer 33

marvelous river, with a beauti- historic estate. Encompassing all sorts of are no longer a rarity, and they can be In Europe, you might visit the museum only Dudutki offers a real Slavic bath, folklore, culture, literature, and life itself ful name, runs through Belarus folk crafts and trades of the past, guests found worldwide. in Skansen, where you can act as a baker after which you must run barefoot on in all its abundance, can travel from the where birds tweet and clamor, can see a variety of works, one of which But the Belarusian Dudutki remains and cheesemaker. However, in this mu- grass, which feels like silk and velvet, to U.S. to Belarus, the heart of Europe, to sing and trill. Bird River winds features a potter’s workshop where a mas- unique. According to Forbes, Dudutki seum you will not find there brew-tasting dive into the water of Bird River! see Belarus’s only existing windmill. Ad- Amajestically between emerald and col- ter artisan works the potter’s wheel. The numbers among the 12 best ethnograph- with special post-libation bread, served Others might dream of seeing the ditionally, the King’s Gate also brings de- orful meadows, coniferous and decidu- museum includes an exhibit of ceramics, ic museums within the category of open- with cucumber and honey! Dudutki open-air museum Settlement Pioneers light to tourists, as it is entirely made of ous forests, and the misty plains of the an antiquated operating smithy dating to air museums. stands out as the only moonshine distiller in faraway Australia, which displays the straw! You can take in the pristine natu- wetlands. On this river, located 20 miles the 19th century, workshops that display In almost all these museums, you can in Belarus that is officially allowed to pro- giant paddle steamer, Queen Murray, ral beauty of one of the safest countries in south of the capital of Belarus, Minsk, carpentry and share the secrets of skilled also see the local handicraft artisans duce this strong alcoholic drink! built in 1876. The ship floats restored and Europe, breathe in the purest air infused stands an awe-inspiring museum com- craftsmen, weaving arts, wood crafts, and which include: weavers, potters, wheel- Perhaps you planned to visit Old World moored at the pier of the museum. How- with meadow grasses, and plunge into plex called Dudutki which houses folk the felting of wool. wrights and manufacturers of wooden Wisconsin Museum in the United States. ever in the Australian museum, you will an interactive exposition, where you can crafts and technologies. Stunning is a word you might hear spoons. You can watch a blacksmith shoe Buildings and exhibits stand just as they not find vintage cars of shockingly old touch, taste and feel! Later, you can dive The modern Dudutki stands on the ter- from even a well-traveled tourist versed horses, a potter make his fragile pieces of were when frequented many years ago. ages. In Dudutki, a collection of antique into the cool, clear Bird River, enjoying ritory of a historic 17th century estate in in ethnic arts. Needless to say, Belaru- work, an expert spin artful lace, a carver Livestock still occupy the farms, stores cars can be examined. These autos drove the smells of meadow and forest flowers. Dudichi. In the 1600s, Dudichi became sians were not the first to institute this whittle a whistle, or as a crafter weave continue to sell merchandise from the on Belarusian lands and include a ZIM, Then you can forge a horseshoe for your- known as a center for crafts, trades and kind of museum. Innovations seen in baskets. In offered masters’ classes, you last century, and the museum staff at- Willis, Volkswagen Beetle, Fiat Topolino, self for good luck. g fairs. Beginning in October 1994 with the construction of the museum date to can learn the trades yourself. In Dudutki, tends workshops dressed in costumes of Chrysler, Horch, Ganomak and Seagull. the founding of the new museum, guests 1891, and first appeared on the island of though, you will not only be shown the an older time period. However, you won’t Not only are these fine machines restored For more information: visited this collection of folk crafts and Skansen near Stockholm, Sweden. In the crafting, but you will be taught the secrets find graceful Orlov trotter horses, ponies for presentation, they can actually still http://www.dudutki.by/en/ technology, which not only carefully and beginning of the 20th century in Europe, of these arts. You will take home heartfelt or donkeys. Surely you cannot take riding travel! http://eng.belarustourism.by lovingly promotes Belarusian folk crafts, more than 20 such open-air museums ex- souvenirs made by your own hands-true lessons. Nor can you ride the Belarusian Fans of ethnographic tourism, or just [email protected] but also displays the unique life of the isted. In our century, open-air museums masterpieces! carriage of a wealthy landowner. Plus, people who are interested in history, Culture US-Belarus Observer 35 A TITAN OF HIS ERA – FRANCYSK SKARYNA OF POLOTSK

By Arina Shelashen

very country has its hero, a person of special character and importance. In Belarus, Francysk Skaryna, the philosopher, sage, and the man largely responsible for the development of the Belarusian language and culture, is such a person. ESkaryna was born at the end of the 15th century to a merchant family in the ancient city of Polotsk in northern Belarus. An ambi- tious and studious young man, Skaryna earned his bachelor’s de- gree in liberal arts from Poland’s Krakow University in 1506, then went on to get a doctorate in medicine from the University of Pad- ua in Italy in 1512, all by the time he was 20 years old. In the years that followed his schooling, Skaryna developed an interest in book production, which was beginning to take hold as an industry in Padua and Venice. So in 1517, in the Czech capital of Prague, Skaryna set up his own printing press and published his first book, The Psalter, a collection of hymns and prayers. To many, this may not seem extraordinary. But in those days, book production was far from easy. Firstly, not everyone could read and write. Secondly, printing presses scarcely existed. The process he could combat illiteracy while also providing the common people of bookmaking was considered innovative, especially the produc- with a religious education. “Every man must read because reading tion of a book with engravings like The Psalter. Also, it was the gives a mirror to our life and medicine for the soul,” he is quoted first book to be printed in the Belarusian language. Because of the as saying. lengthy printing process, The Psalter was not widely circulated, but Today, we recognize that typography successfully developed in between 1517 and 1519, Skaryna published 22 books of the Old the Belarusian lands because of Skaryna. He was a master of his Testament. craft and the best printer in the country. The memory of this self- Skaryna later moved his printing house from Prague back to Be- less educator remains forever preserved in his publications and in larus, where he continued to publish both foreign works, which he the annals of Belarusian history. In addition to his national fame, translated, and his own writings. Most of the books he published Skaryna’s portrait even hangs in the famous Hall of 40, or main as- were in Church Slavonic language, but with a large number of sembly hall at the University of Padua in Italy, alongside portraits of Belarusian words. These books were widely circulated among the other great alumni, like the astronomer Copernicus. people of Belarus and are largely credited with helping to develop Skaryna might have traveled many paths in his life, but his main both Belarusian language and culture. goal seemed to be to give people the light of spiritual knowledge Interestingly, besides Skaryna’s translation of the Bible being and a love for their homeland. He contributed significantly to the the first to include language that his own native people could un- development of Belarusian culture. derstand, it also was the first to contain engravings, a portrait of Through his books, readers learned of the vastness and richness himself as the publisher, and his own text, which was considered of the world. “Love books, for they are a source of wisdom, knowl- unthinkable at the time. edge and science,” instructed the famous Belarusian to his coun- Skaryna introduced the tradition of using prefaces and appen- trymen. Undoubtedly, Skaryna rightfully sits among other Renais- dices in Slavic literature, in which the author could insert his own sance luminaries as a great educator, humanist, writer, patriot and Statue of Francysk Skaryna, Minsk, Belarus thoughts and ideas about the text. Skaryna felt that by doing this, pioneer. g Theater in Belarus By Arina Shelashen National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theater of the Republic of Belarus 38 US-Belarus Observer Culture Culture US-Belarus Observer 39

Swan Lake. National Academic Great Opera and Ballet Theatre, Minsk Inside of National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theater of the Republic of Belarus

ot long ago, the National Aca- The Radziwills rose as the wealthiest Nutcracker, which is performed annually. calling on the Radziwills in the 16th cen- demic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet family in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, Each year, the theater’s productions garner tury. In the city of Vitebsk in northeastern Theater of the Republic of Belarus and Belarus emerged from these lands in various awards. The theater building itself Belarus, the international festival Slavianski celebrated its 80th anniversary. the Middle Ages. Owning some of the rich- stands as a noted architectural monument Bazaar hosts theater conferences that high- NThroughout its history, the theater has had est and most famous theaters in the entire to pre-war Soviet construction. light plays and ballet performances featur- over 20,000 performances and more than territory, the Radziwill family founded act- Equally famed in the country is the Na- ing preeminent artists. 200 premieres. However, theater arts in ing schools based on strict discipline. Chil- tional Academic Drama Theater, named af- Youth forums continue as an integral Belarus emerged long before the found- dren studied for 6 to 12 hours a day. The ter writer Maxim Gorky. This center enjoys part of the theatrical life of Belarus. A ing of this famous national theater. In fact, Radziwills themselves were no less talented accolades for the high caliber of acting and popular theater forum TeArt invites foreign the history of theater in Belarus dates back than their students. the originality of the directors’ interpreta- companies to act out recognized samples of centuries. The theaters hosted plays, many written tions. In 2012, it celebrated its 80th anni- theatrical art. Another Belarusian forum, In the 16th century, a type of puppet the- by Princess Franziska Ursula Radziwill, versary with a stark staging of Pan Kochan- Teatralny Koufar, one of the most influ- ater called batleyka premiered. The Italians who was also the first female writer on the ku, which features historical figure Prince ential in Eastern European youth theater, started using puppets for theater as early as territory of modern Poland and Belarus. Karol Stanislaw Radziwill as its protagonist. presents a festival of student productions. the 13th century; however, in Belarus, art- Other famed theaters in Belarus at the time The stages of Belarusian theaters present The city of Mogilev in eastern Belarus acts ists only began to imitate life with the dolls included the Oginski Theater in Slonim Belarusian, Russian and world classics, in- as a platform for the youth theater forum Grodno Regional Drama Theatre much later. Belarusians remain fond of bat- and the Zorich Theater in Shklov, which cluding works by foreign authors and Be- M@rt Contact, a program that includes an leyka, and the folk art enjoys popularity to later became the foundation for the Saint larusian playwrights. For the youngest au- educational component. this day. Petersburg Imperial troupe, or theaters of diences, the Young Spectators Theater and Originating centuries ago, theatrical life In the 18th century, serf theater became the Russian tsars. the puppet theater perform productions, in Belarus is constantly evolving. Many tal- an integral part of cultural life. This type of In the 19th century, acting and ballet which are based on both folk tales and the ented people in Belarus contribute to the theater started when the nobility began or- troupes appeared and traveled across Be- fairy tales of Astrid Lindgren, Charles Per- continued development of theatrical art ganizing their serfs to put on shows for each larus, spreading Belarusian performing rault, Korney Chukovsky and The Brothers including the next generation of artists and other. Rich Belarusian magnates sought to arts. State theaters were established until Grimm. writers. Due to the ongoing enthusiasm build chapels on their lands, where they 1933, when the Belarusian Opera and Bal- Festivals and events permeate theatrical of contemporaries and theater devotees, could also hold their own orchestras and let Theater opened. During the 20th centu- life in Belarus. Puppet theaters celebrate Belarusians continue to enjoy the work of theater productions, often becoming writ- ry, the theater blossomed and new acts and with jubilees, including the participation their ancestors and experience both na- ers and composers themselves. Initially, plays took the stage. of many different theaters from all over tional and international culture and his- the theaters hosted amateur works; family To this day, Belarusian theater remains the world. In Minsk, a street theater forum tory. g members, guests and relatives performed in demand. More than 2 million specta- occurs annually and includes lectures on onstage. But as time passed, the produc- tors visit per year. Currently, 28 theaters street art, workshops and parades. In June, tions became more professional. Art- exist in Belarus, the National Academic the residence of the Radziwill family in the For more information: ists and actors were invited from abroad Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theater being the city of Nesvizh in central Belarus hosts a http://www.belarus.by/en/about- and acting schools began to thrive in most popular. The theater’s repertoire en- yearly festival of opera and ballet. Like a belarus/culture/belarus-opera-ballet- Belarus. compasses 71 performances, including The trip in time, the affair feels as if you were theatre Puppet theater in Grodno, Belarus 40 US-Belarus Observer Connection Connection US-Belarus Observer 41

managed to escape and hide in the forest where he was able to join the resistance. WWII Belarusian After agreeing to lead the 270 survivors beyond the front lines, he became the leader of a small unit of six accompany- ing resistance fighters. Marching out, they moved only at night, covering about resistance fighter 20 miles of road each day. Throughout the day, they hid in the thicket of the swamps while they kept guards posted and sent look-outs. While the Jewish sur- vivors slept, the fighters also conducted and his reconnaissance, looked for safe routes, and gathered food. One time when they were scouting, the resistance fighters became surrounded by Germans and had to fight off the menac- courageous mission ing threat before retreating into the for- ests. Kiselev already gave his fighters a strategic order in case this occurred: if attacked by Germans, scatter in different Wall of Honor in the Garden of the Righteous directions, hide, and regroup at a meet- By Alexei Victorov in Yad Vashem in Jerusalem, Israel ing point in three days. Only 220 people gathered after three days. Many were in- jured and could barely travel the distance or with great difficulty. Some had to be unconscious little boy who were left be- the Belarusian forests only became well n June of 1942, 270 Belarusian Jews carried, yet Kiselev never allowed that hind survived and were discovered by known through a chance discovery. Di- miraculously survived the Nazi mas- anyone be left behind. According to later other resistance fighters. rector Inna Gerasimov of the Holocaust sacres in the ghetto of the tragically accounts from survivors of the journey, The joy of surviving the exodus, how- Museum in Minsk, the capital of Be- well-known town of Dolginovo. By each person made the difficult choice to ever, was short lived and overshadowed larus, found the report that Kiselev had Imanaging to escape and hide, they were leave a loved one behind. In an effort to by a German aircraft raid in Korenets. addressed to the leaders of the resistance able to disappear into the forests that sur- save her children, one woman left her Sadly, some of the people who had sur- following their exit from the occupied rounded the Belarusian villages and meet wounded mother. Another left one of her vived the hardship and suffering of the territory. There was a documentary up to follow the resistance fighters, who nephews, who was unconscious for many dangerous journey died. In addition to made later called Kiselev’s List, where the opposed the Nazis. They did not have any days, in order to continue the journey this, Kiselev was also arrested for deser- story is told by those who lived through other choice but to join these fighters. In with the rest of the campaign. tion due to a lack of documentation. He the events. the villages they were met with caution, Children, of which there were 35, had had lost his documents only a few days A year after the film premiered, one or even persecuted, because of the orders the hardest time during the demanding before the group left, when they stum- of the streets in Dolginovo was named posted and spread among villagers com- journey. The smallest ones could not pre- bled upon disguised German soldiers. after Nikolai Kiselev. In 2015, a monu- manding the execution of any people who vent fearful screaming and crying due to These soldiers demanded their papers, ment was erected for him in a park in his assisted Jewish people. Few people would hunger pains, although it was necessary and then proceeded to pursue them. hometown of Blagoveshchensk in Rus- risk their lives and those of their loved to keep the utmost silence. During the Understanding that their plans were sia. ones, for this reason. difficult trek, which lasted over a month, about to unravel, Kiselev’s fighters en- Prior to the recognition Kiselev re- In order to save the lives of these Jew- the group had to fight Germans more gaged in battle, covering the outgoing ceived at home, his name was engraved ish survivors, two commanders of the re- than once and switch routes. However, Jewish survivors. However, Kiselev end- in the Wall of Honor in the Garden of sistance units requested that Lt. Nikolai they still moved forward with determina- ed up leaving any documents he had in the Righteous in Yad Vashem, the World Kiselev lead them out of the occupied ter- tion, not stopping even for a day. Kiselev the hands of the Nazis. Learning about Holocaust Remembrance Center in Je- ritory. However, a request is not, after all, a understood that if they did not reach his arrest, each participant in the jour- rusalem. Additionally, in Tel Aviv at the direct order, especially when it is a daunt- their destination before the start of the ney signed a petition requesting that the annual meeting on June 5th, a day hon- ing task to pass hundreds of miles of ter- cold weather, they would freeze to death. authorities immediately release and con- ored in memory of the fallen after the ritory occupied by Germans and survive. By the end of October, they reached the fer awards to Kiselev. He was promptly attack and shooting of the Dolginovo Nevertheless, Kiselev agreed. village of Korenets, where the Soviet freed. There was also an order for re- ghetto, they also commemorate Nikolai Born in a Bashkir region of Russia, Army was located. In his report, Kiselev wards and bonuses in his memory, which Kiselev. They call him a “savior” and “an Kiselev volunteered for the front lines after said that he led 218 people the location. came too. However, the main prize that angel, not a man.” One of those who re- graduating from the Institute of Foreign Missing from the list were 50 people, Kiselev received was not from his supe- membered him said, “Moses did not lead Trade in Moscow. Commanding a rifle including those who did not meet at the riors. The greatest thing he received was the Jews out of Egypt, God did! God led unit, he was surrounded not far from Dol- appointed location after three days fol- the gratitude of those he saved, and their us out too. God was above us. But Mo- ginovo in the autumn of 1941 and taken lowing the initial attack of the German memory of him in their hearts. ses was with the people. And Kiselev was prisoner by the Germans while injured. He soldiers and the two family members Nikolai Kiselev died in 1974 in Mos- with us.” g was held at a prisoner-of-war camp before left behind in the forest. The fate of the cow, and during his lifetime he did not Nikolai Kiselev being relocated to Germany. Courageous- 50 missing individuals is still unknown. receive any publicity, nor did he seek it. Source: jewish.ru ly, at the first stop of the journey, Kiselev Shockingly, the elderly woman and the The history of the exodus of Jews from 42 US-Belarus Observer Science Science US-Belarus Observer 43

However, no study of today’s scientific Academics set their sights on a world- of Belarus. One outstanding example can advances can be complete without a look class Belarusian school dealing with differ- be seen in the conservation of the Europe- back at how Belarusian science began. Al- ential equations, process control and phys- an bison, which led to populations of the though in 1922, civil war prevailed in Be- ics problems, algebra, and number theory. once-endangered species tripling in the larus, the first scientific laboratories began Academic Vyacheslav S. Tanayev, famed past 20 years. to operate and eventually resulted in the for his work on cybernetics and computer Today, the National Academy, the lead- founding of the National Academy of Sci- science, established a school in the sphere ing public research organization in the ences of Belarus in 1928. Originally, the of mathematical cybernetics. Automatons country, includes 113 departments, in- academy had only 87 researchers, 22 of aided in the work on foundry and in the cluding physics, math, computer science, whom were among the top third of lead- area of testing vehicles. Cars, tractors and engineering science, chemistry and earth ing academics in the entire Soviet Union. other technical equipment in the machine- science, biology, health, humanities and The success of the academy was so great industry complex of the republic grew into arts, and agricultural science. The academy that institutes in philosophy, linguistics, competitive units. Powder metallurgy and works together with 90 foreign academies history, economics, agriculture, chemis- research into problems of thermal physics, and science centers and holds export con- try, geology and physics, and even a cen- heating and mass movement, turned into tracts with 59 governments (the largest of tral botanical garden, were added just one new focuses. Now, Belarus boasts highly which are with Russia, China, Ukraine, year later. efficient energy-saving technology and Germany, and India). It also houses 16 in- At that time, Belarus was essentially an equipment. ternational centers and laboratories. appendage of the Soviet Union, which was Belarusian scientists study the unique Most importantly, the National Acade- a global leader in scientific research. Dur- physical and chemical properties of peat, my works fairly closely with scientists from ing World War II, when Germany attacked coal and oil shale. Although Belarus lacks the United States. Much of their shared fo- the Soviet Union, much of the National sufficient oil and gas, the country employs cus centers on physics and chemistry. One Academy was damaged. The remaining peat and oil shale as necessary raw materi- example of joint work is when the physics scientists, along with Belarusian citizens, als for fuel. Belarusian scientists theorized institute sent colleagues to the U.S. to de- quickly restored the destruction caused by about the existence of the Pripyat oil ba- liver special diode lasers. The American the war. They also provided urgent help to sin. Once found, the scientists discovered partners valued this cooperation in the IT the front and to the national economy. deposits of potassium and sodium salts, sphere. In addition to these relationships, The Germans pounded their fists most and mineral waters that now constitute a the Central Botanical Gardens and the strongly on Belarus. Brest Fortress, in resource base for the energy and chemical Practical Science Center of Belarus keep the southwest of the country, became a industries. Noteworthy breakthroughs in in close contact with Americans regarding stronghold of resistance to the Nazi mili- high-tech energy-saving technologies in- animal husbandry. tary machine. Surprisingly, throughout clude the creation of raw mineral materials In 2014 and 2015, an international del- this terrible period and until the disso- which improve physical and agrochemical egation visited the National Academy. The lution of the Soviet Union, the National properties, leading to the production of group was headed the Director of the Na- Academy flourished. Scientists raised the potash fertilizers. These products are one tional Academies of Sciences, Engineering nation’s economy from its knees. While of the most important strategic resources and Medicine of the United States, Glenn the industry in many Soviet republics was for the nation. Schweitzer. Additionally, the former Ex- mostly destroyed, production in Belarus Belarusian scientists generated an ar- ecutive Director of the Office of Interna- The National showed amazing growth. tificial ionized soil, which can be used as tional Affairs of the National Academy of Significantly, in a short period of time, a universal sod for crops. So now we can Sciences, William Colglazier, was a part of Belarus established new high-tech spheres grow potatoes anywhere? Even on the the fantastic visit. within the national economy: engineering, moon? The answer is obvious! It’s not an With U.S initiatives, a delegation from Academy of Sciences electronics, rocket science, chemistry and illusion, but complete reality. Agriculture the U.S. House of Representatives visited petrochemistry. Additionally, quick devel- remains phenomenal in Belarus. Not to the National Academy in August 2015. Ac- opments occurred in physics, math and mention, one of the most sought-after and cording to U.S. Congressman Dana Rohra- technology, with implications for nuclear popular brands of sausages on the market bacher of California, a representative of energy and the defense industry, as well as comes from Belarus. the Science, Space and Technology Com- of Belarus on the medical and agricultural fronts. With the help of bioorganic chemistry, mittee, the countries of the former Soviet Even with the dissolution of the Soviet Belarusians also produce new drugs and Union, including Belarus, exhibit great Union and the loss of funding, the Presi- medicines for their own people as well as potential in the field of scientific research. dent of Belarus decreed the official re- for other countries. The medical depart- Negotiations are underway to produce By Alexander V. Kilchevsky opening of the National Academy in 1997. ment of the National Academy has pre- Belarusian-American cooperation in It holds the status of the highest scientific viously developed effective treatments aerospace technology and energy-saving organization, responsible for the coordi- for many diseases found throughout the fields. In combining efforts, the two na- nation and execution of all research within world. Within the country, doctors ad- tions hope to centralize scientific work, he first Belarusian rocket jetti- space and created a system for relaying plasma, and theoretical physics. These the country. Science prevails as a govern- minister medicines and vaccines using the to solve not only problems that inter- soned from a launch pad in the data back to earth. schools are producing fantastic scientific ment priority with the goal of creating a latest medical equipment. est them, but affairs of the world as a central city of Babryusk. Make Compared to years ago, when theories results, leading to worldwide recognition. highly developed national scientific sys- But what about the priceless and pris- whole. g believe? Not at all. Today Belarus outnumbered scientists in Belarus, this Examples include the creation of a new tem to meet the needs of the economy. Be- tine nature of Belarus, her lands, forests Tis a place where fantastic scientific achieve- country now has wonderful schools in type of laser with strength that can be ma- larus jumped ahead in almost all spheres, and waters? These treasures are carefully For more information: ments are taking place. This small nation various regions to focus on laser physics, nipulated and a new class of infrared fil- leaving behind other former Soviet repub- guarded. Findings in botany and zoology http://nasb.gov.by/eng/ has catapulted its first-ever satellite into optics and spectroscopy, low-temperature ters. lics. protect the clean and rich flora and fauna 44 US-Belarus Observer Sports Sports US-Belarus Observer 45

odern-day Belarus occupies a At the recent 2014 Winter Olympics 2014 International Ice Hockey Federation well-deserved position in the in Sochi, Belarusian athletes earned World Championship. global athletic hierarchy, due six medals, five golds and one bronze, The country’s authorities pay special at- Children to the fact that a lot of peo- with the biggest contribution was tention to promotion of youth sport. All Mple work to promote physical fitness and made by the queen of biathlon, Daria over Belarus, children and teenagers join sports. This is shown by the record-setting Domracheva. athletic clubs and teams. Belarus also has achievements of Belarusian athletes and Today, the most popular sports in Be- training facilities for professional athletes, the presence of world-class sports facilities. larus are track and field, soccer, gymnas- including the Belarusian State University and athletics As a result, Belarus is one of the world’s top tics, cross-country skiing, hockey, tennis, of Physical Training, 11 Olympic reserve 20 sports nations. fencing, wrestling, volleyball, handball academies, 165 specialized Olympic re- Belarusians can be justifiably proud of and swimming. serve schools, and more than 250 youth their compatriots’ achievements at such Promotion of sport and physical fit- sports schools. large-scale events as the Olympic Games, ness remains one of the state’s top priori- Every year, sporting youth take part in in Belarus: where their athletes’ names are forever en- ties, and healthy living aspirations are the nation-wide athletic meets in more than 20 tered into the annals of the world sport. trademark of the country’s population. Olympic events. In addition to state-wide Belarusians fist took part in the Olym- As of today, Belarus has over 25,000 meets, entry-level competitions are held at pics in 1952, at Helsinki, where they were athletic facilities. There are 144 stadiums, the city level. a part of the Soviet Union team. After gain- 332 swimming pools, 4,588 gymnasiums, Each sport has its fans, great moments the next generation ing independence, Belarusian represented 52 riding halls and 32 ice rinks. in history, and outstanding figures, offer- themselves, at the 1994 Winter Olympic Thanks to these modern athletic fa- ing the younger generation of Belarusian Games in Lillehammer. Since then, more cilities, the Belarus can host prestigious athletes plenty of people to look up to and than 70 Belarusians have become Olympic competitions and international cham- to learn from. And this is a cause for great By Sergei Zhukovich champions. pionships. One of such events was the optimism for Belarus’s sporting future. g 46 US-Belarus Observer Sport Final Thoughts US-Belarus Observer 47 A Comedian's Journey in Belarus

By Mikhail Zadornov

ome time ago I decided to take a long weekend off to spend some time in… you would never believe it, but it wasn’t Paris or Cannes — it was Minsk! A five-star hotel, fit for Rome, but much cheaper. Mu- Sseum and galleries. Theater buildings restored by the state. In the opera and ballet theater, the choir alone is 100 people strong! The symphonic orchestra is one of the best in Europe. The ballet com- pany also has more than 100 dancers. And all of them get their salaries from the state! In the evening, I was dining at a restaurant and noticed a group of men at the nearby table. They were middle-aged, but dressed like young men, and their hairdos reminded me of Indian toma- hawks. The waiter proudly whispered to me: “Those are The Scor- pions!” But I was more surprised by the fact that these men kept looking at me much more often than I was looking at them. Fi- Basketball player Lindsey Harding plays for Belarusian national team nally, one of them left the table and came over: “Are you a famed Russian actor?” It turned out that several of the musicians are mar- ried to Russians, and they got jealous of their young wives who kept shooting glances in my direction. Naturally, they decided to find out who I was and they invited me to their table. We had quite a few topics to discuss: both myself, American shoots and the musicians travel a lot. We shared our impressions of Peru, Kilimanjaro, Popocatepetl, but we agreed that the place we all liked best was Belarus! Russian newspapers and television reporters like to sneer at for Olympic glory with [President] Lukashenko and the fact that Belarusians supposedly have nothing but potatoes. In truth, modern-day Russian could take some lessons from its neighbour. Each of the cities that I vis- ited had a new stadium, and each school, a good athletic field. The Belarusian basketball team sidewalks are so clean that you don’t have to take your shoes off when you get home. There are no terrorist attacks in Belarus. The number of young Mikhail Zadornov By A.M. LaVey drug addicts is much smaller than in Russia. There are no oligarchs who hold sway over the government. There are no godfathers I’m at the hotel and filling out the check-in list. A hotshot Mos- keeping the provinces under reign of terror. cow businessman comes over, one of the people corrupted by the Sometimes it seems to me that Belarus is the only country idea of the all-inclusive resort. “Do you have a health club here,” he untouched by the global economic crisis. Free education! Free asks the receptionist. “And masseuses, do they provide an erotic indsey Harding, a guard with the Duke player to be picked No. 1 in the coming in fourth place at the 2015 Euro- healthcare! Somebody could object, of course, saying that this free massage?” U.S. WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, WNBA draft. She is also the Duke’s first pean Women Basketball Championship. healthcare is worthless. Well, it’s not like it’s worth much in Russia, The receptionist turns red. I can see that nothing would make along with the rest of the Belar- female basketball player to qualify for “I’m so excited to be able to play in the except that we have to pay for it too. her happier than to punch him in the face, but the five-star estab- usian women’s national basket- the Olympics. Olympics,” said Harding in a press re- I am not joking — you can walk at night through the streets of lishment prohibits this. Still, she just can’t keep it cool and replies Lball team, has qualified for the Olympic After university, Harding went to go lease. “This was a lifelong goal of mine rather harshly, risking a dismissal: “Here [she stresses ‘here’ espe- Minsk and other cities, and not have to worry about anything and Games to be held in Rio de Janeiro in play for many teams with the WNBA, and to be able to achieve it is a wonderful there are no traffic jams during the day! cially] we have no such things.” In her reply I can hear her pride August 2016. including the New York Liberty and the feeling. We worked so hard to get here We should all take lessons from Lukashenko! You know what in the country. Harding, who was born in Mobile, Los Angeles Sparks. and it has paid off. Rio here we come!” else he came up with recently? He took his officials on a prison The businessman sniffs arrogantly, saying, “You guys are so bot- Ala., but grew up in Houston, Texas. Though having no Belarusian heri- Belarus and the United States are not tour, and showed them plenty of unoccupied cells. tom-of-the-barrel! When are you going to become modern?” She attended Duke University in Dur- tage, Harding is now a naturalized, dual presently scheduled to compete against Belarus is a remake of everything good that Russians once had. I can no longer keep to myself and interrupt their conversation: ham, N.C., where she played basketball US-Belarusian citizen. In 2015 she was each other, but if does happen, Harding And it was a distinct pleasure to me that my new brothers, The “You know who does an excellent erotic massage in Belarus? The and graduated in 2007 with a degree in invited to join the Belarusian team and will find herself playing against two of Scorpions, completely agreed with me. When we talked, I tried to police! I can give you their number!” sociology. While she was at Duke, she helped them secure a shot for the 2016 her Phoenix Mercury teammates, Diana explain to them what “hard rock” means in the Old Slavic, since The hotshot doesn’t appreciate the joke and turns bright red, un- was named a Naismith College Player International Basketball Federation’s Taurasi and Brittney Griner. the word rock/рок stands for fate. So hard rock is “hard fate.” I sug- able to come up with a retort. The grateful receptionist gives me of the Year and holds many Duke and World Olympic Qualifying Tournament, Belarus’s first game is scheduled for gested that musicians write a “lucky-rock” song. Their producer a smile, the likes of which you won’t find in any six-star resort or NCAA records. She became the first which they came in fifth place, after Saturday, Aug. 6th, against Japan. g was very excited about this idea. erotic massage parlor. g 48 US-Belarus Observer Final Thoughts US-Belarus Observer 49

Thoughts on Belarusians By Timothy Buryak

Weather there is none. People tie up their dog, leave too”, he said, “And if you want to speak it, The climate in Belarus resembles that of their bike and even leave a baby on the I will too!” So much for being out of style! Moscow, or maybe it’s a bit better. There’s street. It’s hard to believe it is like this in Bilingual Belarusians, naively believe little enough sun, about 100 days a year. In Belarus. But the subway isn’t packed with that Russians can understand them. But Europe, they say there are 200 days of sun, crowds, and moms sit around playing with really, a Russian can hardly understand which is why fewer Europeans suffer from their kids. The streets remain uncrowded. spoken Belarusian. seasonal depression. In Belarus, there is Misbehaving and trying to escape from clean air. Unspoiled nature. In one Be- responsibilities doesn’t cut it here. Those Studies larusian village, a deer and a rabbit came who know the place know that even if On the whole, the methods of teach- within six feet of me. I was shocked. What there is no evidence, there will be an inqui- ing in Belarus are the same as in America: beauty! sition. Those who think differently will be memorization for tests. Teachers chant sorely disappointed. Belarusians will tell the lessons until the students know them Tourism the truth and the police will believe them by heart, then they write the lessons again and check on the situation. Unfortunately, there is not a lot to of- and again. The same rotten scenario, “If fer tourists to Belarus. There are just five you want to learn – memorize!” smart museums in Minsk, parks where you Shopping can walk, a couple of castles, ski resorts, Shopping warms the soul. Anywhere Migration and the ice palace all at good prices. And you go in the country, goods will cost Belarusians who leave for a better life of- there’s the delicious cuisine and European about the same. There’s no sense in trying ten return, realizing that the stories of fab- cleanliness, and, of course, the people. You to seek out cheaper products. That makes ulous profits are greatly exaggerated and need to find a smart trip planner, as there shopping very, very convenient. It takes that you can stay at home after all. They is much to see. If you take an official tour, away the worry of where you can get stuff are not desperate to leave everything and you will see some, but not enough. without the hassle and haggling. And the embark into the unknown. At night, the city sleeps. Tomorrow prices are at the same level, as if you found there’s work. In general though, there are the cheapest place. Storks plenty of youth on the streets in Minsk. In a Minsk department store, on the first The busel, or stork, remains one of the However, in comparison to the rest of floor, they sell ails,n locks, buckets, her- symbols of Belarus. Indeed there are a lot Europe, there are very few loiterers in Be- ring, bananas, light bulbs and refrigera- of storks and I noticed them. The stork’s larus. tors, bread and everything for the home. I voice is not loud, but more often they hiss can’t remember a time in my life when I or make clicking sounds. And the chicks Architecture did not find what I needed. On the second squeal like kittens. The first female to the The city of Minsk during World War floor, there is a cafeteria, with delicious nest is claimed by the male as his mate. If II was almost completely destroyed, and draniki, or potato pancakes. Products and a second female flies into the nest, a fight therefore it was rebuilt. According to the more products all the way to the fifth floor. breaks out between them to see who will visitors, the buildings are elite. Substan- There are no off-limit fancy areas; every- be the mother. The male stays out of the dard projects do not exist. New areas are thing is available to Belarusian people and fight. Smart guy. also elite. Catholic and Orthodox Church- also to visitors. es particularly stand out. My Admiration Belarusian Language Some people have told me that because Safety I really wanted to learn the language and I have truly experienced the Belarusian The scene: A dad parks a stroller with a converse in it, but when I asked one young way of life, my admiration for the country baby at the door of a store and goes inside guy about it, he said that the Belarusian would change. They were wrong. Some to shop. The baby is left out on the side- language is a “farmer language” and “out things I see differently, but the essence has walk alone. I can’t believe my eyes! I look of style.” I told him that I really loved it and not changed. It’s an amazing country be- at the people walking by for a reaction and after that he changed his answer. “I like it cause there are amazing people in it! g 50 US-Belarus Observer

St. Nicholas Garrison Church Brest, Belarus