Friends

Friends, tonight in Israel begins Yom ha-Zikaron. This is the Memorial Day of killed in wars of Israeli and victims of terror. On this day, we commemorate IDF military, police, security officers, soldiers of underground organizations who gave their lives for the country's independence and peace. As well as those, who was killed in terrorist attacks.

On this day on 4th Iyar, mourning events begins in the evening when comes a new day. The date was chosen not accidently. On the 4th Iyar 5708 by the Jewish calendar (13 May 1948) advocates of province Gush Etsion were brutally killed and never found that only 10 hours after will be declared the independence of the State of Israel.

At the 20:00 Israel will hear a siren. Under its sound in silent mourning everyone will freeze, all cars will stop and people will stand in silence or pray in memory of their brave countrymen.

The official ceremony will be held at the Western Wall to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. Then Israel will put down the flag as a sign of mourning.

A second siren will sound at 11 am. It lasts two minutes and again the Israelis are silently and think about those who they lost and who they are proud of. Imagine if people go by train and cannot hear the sound of sirens, at the appropriate time the driver stops it, and all the people to rise from their seats and pay homage to the victims.

After morning sirens begin funeral arrangements, people go to the cemeteries.

Most importantly - Israel has no "nameless" victims. The state not only knows how many people died, but tries to do everything to remember their names. I think this is extremely important. This people are not another "+1" in the statistics of losses, they are lifes, families, histories. They have to live in our memory. I think that Ukrainian should do the same, according to the situation in the Donbass.

The next day, Israel will celebrate Independence Day and the Day of Commemoration of the victims of wars and Israeli victims of terror in its threshold has deep symbolism. So, Israel will never forget what price the country gave for its independence. Young brings military oath to defend the homeland on the graves of those who gave their lives for it. This is a very strong and important tradition that suggests that brave Israelis will never be forgotten.

Eternal honor.

Friends

Friends, did you know that one of the best entertainers in the history of the studio "Disney" was Ukrainian? He, Volodymyr ( Bill) Tytla created characters of dwarves in "Snowwhite" Stramboli in "Pinocchio", Dumbo and in Klorabel cow in the cartoon "Mickey Mouse".

Volodymyr ( Bill) Tytla was born on the 25th of October, 1904 in New York in a family of Ukrainian immigrants. At one time, they emigrated from the village Pidhaitsi Ternopil region. But in they also lived badly in the US. His father worked in producing barrels for fish, family was poor. The boy learned from his childhood to escape from the harsh reality through imagination and ability to draw. When Volodymyr ( Bill) Tytla was 9 years old, his aunt took him on a trip where he saw first animation. This event affected his life.

First, the guy went to study to the New York school of industrial design, but at the age of 16 he got a job and dropped out. He created titles for the studio "Paramount", and later started drawing cartoon characters for "Aesop's Fables."

Then he didn’t know that the animation will be a passion throughout his life. The second his work was also at the studio - "John Terri’s." Parents needed his financial support, so Volodymyr (Bill) worked hard and quickly gained great authority.

Good earnings allowed Volodymyr ( Bill) Tytla to finish his studies - he went to gain new knowledge in Paris. He perfected his skills taking lessons greatest illustrators. Even had time to visit the home of the parents - Ternopil region. There he fell in love with Ukrainian song, has always listened to it at the leisure time. After that he returned to America to continue his career.

He got a job at the studio "Terityuns" - third-rate, producing not very high quality cartoons. He did not like to work there, but times were difficult. And then Volodymyr ( Bill) Tytla took a chance and went to Hollywood to meet with Walt Disney. It was 1934. His talent was immediately noticed and he became a part of the team that made the first feature-length cartoons.

After 4 years, Volodymyr ( Bill) Tytla took of marriage with the model, that posed for the animators named Adrien Le Clerk. Soon they had a son, who was named Peter, his reaction and emotions Volodymyr ( Bill) Tytla depicted in the image of Dumbo

But in 1943, Volodymyr ( Bill) Tytla left Disney. Then workers gathered to strike because of the reduction, which took place because of the economic crisis. He released on their own, but regretted that decision to the end of life.

Then the family moved to Connecticut to their own farm.

At the same time, Volodymyr ( Bill) Tytla continued to work as an animator and created several well-known characters such as Casper the little ghost.

Volodymyr ( Bill) Tytla died on the 29th of December, 1968 in Connecticut.

Friends! Many talented Ukrainian teach us by their example if you to go to the goal, keep learning and never give up, then you can become the best of the best in your business.

Friends!

On this day in 1908 in Svitavy (now Czech Republic) was born Oskar Schindler - a German industrialist who saved 1,200 Jews during the Holocaust. He was the only member of the Nazi Party, which was buried on Mount Zion in Jerusalem. History feat Oscar Schindler was the basis of the book "Schindler's Ark" and the movie "Schindler's List."

Oskar Schindler was born in a family of German Catholics, Hans Schindler and Frantsyshky Loser. Initially was engaged in business, but went bankrupt during the Great Depression.

When Oscar was 19, he married Emily, daughter of German Jews. She was a year older and hopelessly in love with Oscar. Her parents gave dowry as much as 100 thousand crowns. Family life was not straightforward - Oscar often betrayed wife in the big man's heart could smolder while some loved. But for goodness there also was a lot of space.

In 1939, Schindler joined the Nazi Party, founded a factory for the production of metal ware. Another factory in Krakow he received because of anti-Semitic policy in Poland.

Together with wife they really helped Jews, although this meant that their life was always in danger, at any moment it could end in a gas chamber as his workers. Last redeem those Jews who had to get in Aushvitts, cost 2.6 million Reichsmark yo Schindlers .. But saved people helped them from lynching by Soviet soldiers, Schindler were saved by the Russian-German cook who worked forthem. She said that this Germans are good and have to live.

After the war, Oskar Schindler emigrated to Argentina, but ten years later returned to Germany and left his wife. He traveled to different countries where lived rescued people. In 1967, Oskar Schindler was named Righteous among the Nations.

In the last years of his life he lived to help Jewish organizations and presents rescued his people.

Oscar Schindler’s person over time caused much controversy, people said that he was not a hero. One reason why was the replica of his wife Emily, who said that "this" hero "was a womanizer and a catalytic own life!". But at that moment the woman was already 94 years old and she was very indignant that the film Steven Spielberg's "Schindler's List" did not disclose her role as the main assistant in saving Jews. But the real appreciation cannot be forgotten. Unfortunately, the characters are not always perfect, as we draw them. But most importantly - their brave deeds will remain in history forever.

Friends!

Friends! Recently her 75th anniversary celebrated one of the greatest `American actresses Jewish Barbara Streisand. And did you know that the roots of the famous actress and singer are Ukrainian?

Grandfather of Barbara Streisand - Isaac was born in Western Ukraine, in Berezhany town in Ternopil region. His family lived in poverty, the house had two rooms where all the family slept on benches. Isaac decided to seek a better life and leaved Berezhany in 1898. As it turned out, forever.

He emigrated to America, suffered terrible 15 days on the ship. Then this exhausting journey cost many immigrants their lives, their dead bodies simply were thrown overboard.

At the customs control, Isaak Streisand filled customs declaration: "Nationality: Galician. Other location: Berezhany. Don’t have any money."

Cousin of the Isaac then lived for some time in New York. So he moved in with him.

Later he took marriage with Anna Keston, also emigrant. Some claim that she was born in Galicia, others say - in Volyn.

Isaac and Anna also did not live in luxury. They had five children, the eldest of them - Emmanuel - became the father of Barbara Streisand. She was born on the 24th of April, 1942 in Brooklyn. Her mother was a singer in her youth, but the stage did not work, and she became a school secretary. His father was a school teacher, so they met there. When Barbara was just a year, Emmanuel died. Her mother married again but stepfather did not love Barbara, who was closed, not very pretty, but extremely arrogant. Classmates also did not like her.

But she had huge ambitions and said : "I'll be a movie star and sing for US president." From these words, even her parents laughed, but the girl did not stop. After high school, she has not forgotten about her dream. Despite the fact that everything said she was ugly and has no future in showbiz, Barbara was convinced that the main thing - is originality. First, she became a singer in a local bar. When she came to audition, visitors began to whistle. But when they heard her magical voice – the became silent. It was the first victory of Barbara Streisand.

Then she changed the name to "Barbra" to be more original. For the first time on the big stage she came out in 1962, played in the musical. She was noticed by the producer, after that they made the first album «The Barbra Streisand Album», which brought her extraordinary popularity.

But Barbra wanted to become the movie star! She played in the Broadway musical "Funny Girl" when it was planned to make it a film. Barbra knew that she wanted to do everything possible to get the main role. In the samples, they had to play the scene of a kiss between two actors. Then Streisand as fiercely attacked the actor Omar Sharif that his mouth bleed. He was afraid of it, but it was clear to the crew this is what they needed. And it was true because for the role in «Funny girl" Barbra got her first "Oscar" as the best actress.

Although appearance of Barbra was criticized from the childhood, she did not have problems with men. She even created a "phenomenon of Streisand." Actor Omar Sharif described it. First, when someone saw Barbra, it seemed that she was extremely ugly. Then this feeling became softer and this developed into a deep love to her talent.

Barbra has fulfilled all her dreams - even sang for President! When Bill Clinton was 49, she called him and sang «Happy Birthday».

Friends, Barbra has fulfilled all her dreams - and now she lives a happy life with her loved one. I would like you all to remember the example of this courageous woman who went to the goal despite all obstacles. Fairy tales come true, and Cinderella story of Streisand is the direct evidence of this.

Friends!

31 years ago, happened a terrible tragedy - the Chernobyl accident. It is the largest man-made disaster of modern times, the consequences of which we feel even today.

On the 26th of April, 1986 at 1:23 at the fourth unit of the Chernobyl NPP there was a massive explosion. Because of it appeared the roof of the third power was burning. Firstly, arrived firefighters to extinguish the flames. They worked until 5 am, but in the 4 block the elimination of the fire ended up only on the 10th of May.

The fact of the accident was carefully concealed. But the radioactive cloud hanged over not only Ukraine, but also over Europe. Sweden first noted the high level of radiation. Then, 2 days after the explosion, the Soviet Union made the first message.

In 1986, the destroyed reactor was covered with sarcophagus. Now new "Shelter" stands above. According to its designers, the new building will solve the problem, at least for hundred years, although there is a plan to eliminate the station in 2065.

Friends! You can forget about what was on this day in 1986. But you must never forget those, who gave their lives during the accident at Chernobyl. People, who tried to save the world from a terrible man-made disaster, "Warriors of Chernobyl".

Only their courage and sacrifice minimized the effects of one of the worst tragedies in modern history. Eternal honor to you, dear heroes!

Friends!

On this day in 1913 died prominent Ukrainian writer Mikhail Kotsyubynsky. His work is unforgettable - original, innovative, full of love and understanding to people. Kotsyubynsky was a great prose writer of the European level.

Michael Kotsyubynsky was born in the Vinnytsia. His father was an ordinary civil servant, industrious, but recalcitrant to injustice. He frequently changed jobs because of temper, quarrel with the management. Kotsyubinsky’s mother loved him, invested all her soul in his education.

Later the family moved to live to the village, later to the city of Bar. Here, in 1875, Michael went to primary school. Later, Michael studied at a religious school in Shargorod. He was only 12 when he fell in love with 16-year-old girl. Then, to attract her attention, Kotsyubinsky decided to become a "great man" and with a tenfold force attacked the book. His favorite writers were Taras Shevchenko and Marko Vovchok, they inspired Kotsyubinsky to become awriter. His talent was immediately noticed by the teachers - they said: "We have our own writer." And then no one imagined what level will this great writer gain.

After the seminary, Michael wanted to enter the university, but the dream did not come true. The family was in material need: father frequently changed jobs, mother lost sight, Michael himself was forced to give private lessons to support the family.

But Kotsyubynsky continued to study, and through self-education he passed the national exam at a real school teacher in Vinnytsia. Through commitment to ideas of independence, Kotsyubinsky was registered by the gendarmes. There were a few searches In his apartment, after which Michael came under temporary supervision.

Later Kotsyubynsky went to Lopatyntsi village where he worked as a tutor for kids of the accountant of sugar refineries. There he studied peasant life, whose image later was widely shown in his work.

The first work of Michael "Andrew Soloviyko or Vcheniye light and darkness nevcheniye" critics did not approve. But the poem "Our cottage", published in Lviv children's magazine "Ring" in 1890, became the starting point of a successful career of Kotsiubynsky. Michael met in Lviv with Ivan Franko, agreed to publish editions of works. Then came stories about children "Scrub", "Tree", "Little sinner," "P'yatyzlotnyk" story "On Faith", parables and many other skilled works.

Over time Kotsyubynsky came to Chernihiv. There he met the love of his life - a year older librarian Vira Deysha. One of Michael's friends invited him to "Ukrainian group", there also was Vira. Interesting girl with no less interesting story: the daughter of impoverished nobles, who spent six months in the Warsaw prison for belonging to the left youth organization. After the departure of the writer, he counted the days until another meeting. The couple got married, bought a house in Chernigov, where later moved Michael’s mother and one of the sisters. Instead he was forced to work in other cities. And in Chernihiv, meanwhile, was born his first son - Yurasyk. Because Michael wanted to live at home badly, he even survived neurasthenia. But time passed and he finally got a place in Chernihiv zemstvo.

Michael had four children: Yuri, Oksana, Irina and Roman. Father was a good example for kids, extremely talented and intelligent, he knew nine foreign languages, including Greek, Crimean Tatar and Gypsy.

In 1911 "Friend of Ukrainian science and art" appointed Kotsiubynskyi lifetime stipend of 2,000 rubles a year so he could retire from the service and surrender artistic work. But he was ill: got asthma and tuberculosis. In order to recover, Kotsyubynsky traveled to the island of Capri. There he met Maxim Gorky, even in lived at his place and wrote there his famous works "The horses are not to blame" and "Present at the birthday party."

Wonderful writer died in the spring of 1913. He was buried on the mountain Boldin in Chernihiv on the right bank of the Desna.

Friends! Michael Kotsyubynsky is really great Ukrainian writer. I think everybody knows and sincerely loves some of his immortal works, or "Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors», «Intermezzo», «Fata Morgana» or any other. So, remember and honor this talented author!

Friends!

Friends! 12 years ago, died the seventh President of Israel - Ezer Weizman. The Israelis regarded him differently, some supported his views and policies, others - no. But the day of burial of Ezer Weizmann showed - the people loved him.

Ezer Weizman was born in Tel Aviv on the 15th of June, 1924. In 1942, he entered the British army, served in Egypt and India. He was a famous fighter pilot, perfectly distinguished himself during the War of Independence. In 1958 he was appointed Brigadier General of the Air Force of Israel. Then Ezer served in the General Staff, but in 1969 - resigned.

Then began his political career - he joined the Herut party, later - led it. In 1977, Weizmann was appointed the Minister of Defense of Israel, because of his experience. And he really showed himself - made every effort for the development of the Israeli defense industry, increased military export of Israel, approved the program of the Israeli fighter. Ezer actually created the Israeli Air Force, upgraded them to create a real fleet.

In addition, he created a special atmosphere inside the army team. Commanders had to know not only names of employees, but all their family’s members, to be interested in personal life of militaries, help them if it was needed. Weizmann himself also followed these rules. Beyond that - he took a rule to personally visit all families where the Israeli military were killed when he became president.

In 1980, Weizman resigned from the government - through a reduction in the defense budget and unwillingness of the government to serious negotiations on autonomy Arab population in Judea, Samaria and Gaza stripes.

In 13 years Ezer Weizman won the presidential election race. He was second after Yitzhak Navon person, born in Israel, who took the presidency. Although normally power of the president in Israel is limited Ezer has spoken with his political initiatives. He insisted that work on the peace process in Israel has to be more productive. Weizmann was supported - in 1998 he again was appointed president. But he was forced to resign, because in 1980 received cash gift from a French millionaire Sarusi, about which he did not report Israeli tax. Then he did not hold any high positions, but imagine, it took 20 years after the incident, but this accusation was enough to make a man resigned.

But his great deeds and efforts for the development of Israel have not gone unnoticed. On the day of the death of the former president said goodbye, literally the whole country.

The Ezer’s uncle - the first President of Israel Chaim Weizmann said that it is very difficult to be president in a country where there are 4 million of presidents. Ezer himself agreed with this, said: "It is very difficult to be the president of a people unless you prefer to be deaf, dumb, and preferably blind." Ezer Weizman was never blind to his subordinates when he was a general and saw the problems of people, when he became president. The ability to hear, see and understand – is what is needed not only by the politicians, but by us too, dear friends.

Friends

Friends, with the sunset in Israel begins mourning day - Yom ha-Shoah. This is the Memorial Day of the Holocaust and heroism of European Jewry. We honor the memory of the six million Jews who died because of brutal violent death, those who fought to the last for their lives and those who survived, in spite of everything.

The symbol of Jewish resistance was the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. Its defenders for 5 weeks have been making opposition to the military, who wanted to destroy the ghetto completely. The liquidation of the ghetto in Warsaw began on the 19th of April, 1943 (27 Nisan) and continued until May 16. Therefore, on the 27 Nisan was established Holocaust Memorial Day and heroism of European Jewry.

Of course, a thousand people - exhausted, hungry, almost unarmed - could not break through the barriers of the Nazis. But this uprising was a turning point in the minds of the Jews: they started to believe that even a small force, backed by faith, can do the impossible. That's when the Jews realized that they can and must defend themselves that they can rely only on themselves.

The third largest, after Warsaw and Lodz, was Lvov ghetto, Jews from there were destroyed in Yaniv concentration camp. The territory had not gas chambers, crematoria, official documents listed as camp labor. But the land in the "Valley of Death", where mass executions were carried out on a half meters was soaked with blood.

Every year in Yom ha-Shoah at the Warsaw ghetto memorial in Yad Vashem there is a rally. There are people who survived the Holocaust, their families, relatives. Together with the President and the Prime Minister they lit six torches in memory of the six million victims. The morning of the day starts with a siren, it is heard at ten o'clock. This means that Israel must freeze in two minutes of silence. After it passes wreath laying ceremony at the memorial to the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising.

Also, since 1988, in Poland annually has been held "Pace of life." Its members go from the Auschwitz death camp to another camp - Birkenau. The name of this event is symbolic, it is - the opposition of "pace of death" during which part of weak prisoners - died. Young people should remember this.

Friends! These terrible memories are always with us. We have no moral right to forget, we have to pass our knowledge on disaster and pain to other generations so that they understand that such a tragedy cannot happen again EVER.

Friends!

Yesterday Kyiv Ukrainian and Israeli journalists met. 24 representatives of leading mass media of Israel arrived in Ukraine to get acquainted with the information situation in the country and to establish ties with Ukrainian colleagues.

I am glad that I was able to contribute to the organization of this event, because I believe that journalists should convey the truth to people and help to build a positive image of the country. Let me give you an example.

In May 2015, I invited over 20 journalists from Israel to the opening of the Honorary Consulate of Israel in Lviv. Then they went on a press tour across Western Ukraine. After they told about all the charm and characteristics to the Israeli audience. This visit helped to open flights Lviv - Tel Aviv. And this is - two flights a week, that are never empty. Thus, was created a constant flow of tourists both to Ukraine and to Israel. Beyond that, thanks to Israeli journalists, was created a positive image of Ukraine. I have often met people who wanted to invest in various projects in the Western region of the state.

Similarly, Ukrainian journalists maintain a positive image of Israel in the media. Thanks to them, Ukrainian knows that Israel is a great friend of Ukraine and an example to follow.

Meanwhile meetings of Ukrainian and Israeli journalists are happening on a regular basis. According to First Deputy Minister of Information Policy of Ukraine Emine Dzhaparova, soon Ukrainian media delegation will arrive on a visit to Israel for debugging connections. Israeli journalists experience for them is priceless, especially with regard of the media coverage in the area of ​​military conflicts, because Ukraine has been living in a state of war for three years, and Israel - for 68.

Friends! The journalists are democracy guards, because their work - is extremely important. Especially at the times of information war.

Friends

Friends, do you know who is the author of the monument at Babi Yar? There are three of them - the famous sculptor Mikhail Lysenko, Victor Sukhenko and Alexander Vitryk.

76 years ago was born one of them - Victor Sukhenko. During his lifetime, he created many interesting works, was awarded the State Prize of USSR Taras Shevchenko, Honored Artist of Ukraine, professor of Ukrainian Academy of Arts. Viktor was born on the 21st of April, 1941 in the village Rybtsi, Poltava region, studied at the Kiev Art School. Later – graduated from the sculpture department of the Kiev Art Institute, studied at the famous Ukrainian sculptor Mikhail Lysenko. At this department, Viktor Sukhenko later became a teacher.

Among the outstanding works of Victor Vasilievich there are following sites:

- Heroes forcing the Southern Buh (Mykolaiv region, 1975)

- Taras Shevchenko in Kazakhstan (1982)

- and still is the greatest monument to those who died at Babi Yar (1976).

The decision to build a monument appeared before the end of the Second World War. Work started in 1945. But the project was postponed in the closet. War-torn Kyiv had other problems. The issue of the monument stopped until the 60's.

After the cancellation of the results of several competitions, in 1968 was announced the winning project, made by M. Lysenko, V. Sukhenko O. Vitryk. Work on it lasted almost seven years.

It was felt that the government did not want this monument to be built. International Jewish organizations saw it just as a memorial to Jews - victims of Nazism. The Soviet elite insisted that at Babi Yar Soviet were shot soviet people. In the artistic council of the Ministry of culture sculptors instructed, that shot Jewish people did not protect their homeland, and obediently went to the shooting. Therefore, among the pieces of the memorial to be soldiers, athletes, communists and guerrillas. And Jews should not be shown.

Sculptors at their own risk and hostility added into a composition shape old Jew, who was leaned over by the crying girl. The Communist Party Central Committee told, added figures should be removed immediately! But then the situation changed dramatically - in the American press appeared publications, that the Soviet leadership artificially impedes work on the monument at Babi Yar, a US Jewish organization have even begun collecting donations to create a golden monument to Jews shot there. October 4, 1972 approved the project completely.

Since began the terrible times, because now a monument was needed as soon as possible. By that time Mikhail Lysenko died, at work on the monument he was replaced by his son - 27-year-old Bogdan Lysenko. Sculptors had to work day and night.

There was a fall and in the workshops, there was a terrible cold. Victor Sukhenko got cold, legs and arms refusedto work. He remained lifelong disability. By the way, Victor Sukhenko is immortalized in the monument at Babi Yar - he served as a model for the nude male figure.

Life of the sculptor ended tragically - Victor Sukhenko committed suicide on the 20th of October, 1998.

Friends

Friends, do you know who is this charming girl on the photo? The famous American astronaut, obviously. Her name is Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper . She twice was in space. She is Ukrainian by birth, knows the language and even ate real Ukrainian borscht in the native village of her father in Lviv region.

Heidemarie was born on the 7th of February, 1963 in the United States in St. Paul. Her father – was s Ukrainian Stefanyshin Michael, mother - German Adelheyda. From childhood, she was a member of Plast in the US, went to camps reservoirs, sang Ukrainian songs. In 1980, she graduated from high school Deram Gol High School, later - joined the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, received a diploma in mechanical engineering. In 1985 she entered the Navy United States: was trained in underwater rescue and center of operations of the Navy (Panama City, FL), was named captain of the Navy United States.

Troops gave Heidemarie not only excellent skills and experience, but also a husband - Glen Piper. They were married - the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. The couple have a son, Michael.

Heidemarie became the astronaut on the 1st of May, 1996, as a candidate for the flight in the mission. After two years, she finished training and was admitted to the Department of astronauts of NASA. Her first flight took place in 2003. But a catastrophe of the shuttle "Columbia" was the reason to transfer flight several times. To the space Heidemarie flight on the 9th of September 2006. Her first flight lasted 11 days 19 hours 6 minutes and 35 seconds. She could not see father’s homeland – because it was too cloudy. Instead, she easily found the Black Sea, the Dnieper and Kyiv. In addition, in the spacecraft there were Ukrainian symbols, and Heidemarie often listened to favorite Ukrainian songs.

Soon Heidemarie saw Ukraine with their own eyes, not from outer space – on the 29th of January 2007 she arrived for a visit. In Lviv, in the villages Yakimov and New Yarychiv her relatives live. She has 16 cousins! In addition, she met with the President of Ukraine Viktor Yushchenko and was awarded the Order of Princess Olha for Merit to Ukraine.

Next space flight took place a year later - in November 2008. Then Heidi Maria became part of the crew of shuttle "Endeavor".

Friends! Your origins and traditions always need to be honored and remembered. This makes us who we really are. Roots makes us stronger and that helps in life. Story of Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper is a good example and a great success story.

Friends!

In Ukrainian cinemas, recently has started the interesting movie called " The Zookeeper's Wife." The plot is built on the penetrating story, that actually occurred during World War II.

The film is about heroism of couple of Jan and Antonina Zhabynsky. He was a zoologist at Warsaw zoo. She was a writer. In September 1939, Warsaw Zoo was fired and badly damaged. Some animals were killed, others fled, some Germans evacuated to other zoos. But many vacant spaces appeared. There Zhabynsky hid Jews, which secretly fled to the zoo from the Warsaw ghetto. Yang personally helped them - allegedly traveled to the ghetto in search of waste to feed pigs, who also lived at the zoo. The exposure was incredible, because the former family friend of Zhabynsky Lutz Heck was the senior Nazi official. He was in love with Antonina and tried always to be near.

But this did not prevent Zhabynsky to save about 300 Jews. Among the survivors, incidentally, was also known sculptor Magdalena Gross. For this heroic act in 1965, the Israeli Yad Vashem Institute awarded the family the title of Righteous Among the Nations.

Insightful book about the history Zhabynsky in 2007 was created by the American writer Diane Ackerman. She wrote it based on the diaries of Antonina. This work formed the basis of the film. Stares of the film are laureate of "Golden Globe" Jessica Chastain and the famous actor Daniel Brühl.

Friends! Stories like the one that formed the basis for the movie " The Zookeeper's Wife " – are special. They not only remind us of the terrible pages in history, but also learn that even in the worst moments when next to you there are war, death, murder and violence you should be a human and do good things.

Friends!

Today is 115th birthday of Menachem Mendel Schneerson- prominent Jewish figure of the twentieth century, the spiritual leader of Chabad Hasidic movement, the seventh and last Lubavitcher Rebbe.

Menachem Mendel, was born in Nikolaev, was the son of one of the most prominent rabbi of that times - Levi-Yitzhak Schneerson. His father was very educated and wise man, was an opponent of Bolshevism. Menachem's mother also came from a prominent family, was the daughter of Nicholas Meyer rabbi Shloymo Yanovsky. The family was happy – common faith and outlook on life united couple.

The boy grew up a true child of prodigy, could learn for 18 hours, but he was not interested in children's games. Therefore, parents had to take him to school and deal with his individual training. Teachers agreed with this and assured parents that Menachem Mendel, "was born to become a great man."

Menachem Mendel had two brothers. One of them had serious health problems. Because of that family could not move abroad. Soon there was a disaster - his father was arrested for anti-Soviet activities and exiled to Kazakhstan. There Mendel’s brother could not get decent treatment because he stayed in Dnipropetrovsk. There he was killed by the Nazis, as many others, during the Second World War.

In 1923, Joseph met Yitzhak Schneerson, the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, the leader of Hasidism and joined the movement. Later, Joseph-Isaac moved to Leningrad, Menachem Mendel went to visit him. There he fell in love with daughter of Rabbi, later they married. Together in 1927 they emigrated from the Soviet Union, were fleeing from the Bolsheviks. At first the family moved to Latvia and later - to Berlin. At the University of Berlin Menachem Mendel studied mathematics and natural sciences. In 1933, when the Nazis came to power, Schneerson moved to France. There he studied at the Sorbonne, graduated shipbuilding faculty. After graduation, he moved again - now to the US for experienced dangers looming over Europe. In America, he worked in the shipyards Navy US. In 1942, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneerson Menachem appointed head of the educational network on the territory of the United States. He was extremely sought and put maximum effort in order to movement went out of Europe and has become known everywhere. In 1951, Menachem-Mendl Schneerson was elected the seventh Lubavitcher Rebbe. For 44 years, the leadership of Menachem Chabad movement created more than 2,000 educational, social, medical organizations worldwide. He was posthumously awarded the Gold Medal of Congress.

Some interesting facts about the Rebbe: he had never been to Israel, before his death lived in New York, and for he had never gone on vacation. Recently in the honor of Menachem Mendl Schneerson were named streets in Dnipro and Mykolaiv.

Friends! Menachem Mendl, was a wise man. Remember one of his sayings: "When a person spends time for nothing, he or she kill the moment in some way, lose an irreplaceable opportunity. But when you use the time in dignified manner, fill its purpose and performance, it lives forever. "

Friends!

The first Monday after Easter, according to ancient Ukrainian tradition is called Wet. This day has always been one of the most fun of the year.

Boys doused girls with water, and they gave them in response pysanky. According to ancient beliefs, on this day water has healing powers. Therefore, ancestors believed - the girl, on which today was poured water, must be married to her beloved boyfriend.

It seems the old beliefs do not have the former meaning, but the tradition of celebrating Wet Monday still exist. 4 years Monday after Easter in Lviv - a spectacular show, in which there are real water fights.

Moreover, it is comprehensively supported: for those who want to take part in the revels, there are equipped zone to set water and place to change clothes and dry yourselves.

Friends! Today be sure to take the time to fun family. Have a good mood and health!

Friends!

Today Ukrainian celebrate Easter - one of the most important religious holidays.

The tradition of Easter celebration in Ukraine started after the adoption of Christianity. The resurrection of Jesus Christ has deep symbolic significance. This is not just a transition from death to life, and liberation from the burden of sin, it’s the day when all the worst we leave behind, get rid of the evil and become full with the good things, light and love.

I welcome you all, dear friends. I wish you all the best, for your life was full of happiness, warmth, good emotions. Harmony in families, good health and bright ideas! Christ is Risen!

Friends!

On this day in 1905, was born Serge Lifar - one of the greatest dancers of the twentieth century, "good ballet genius" and "Lord of Dance".

Serge Lifar was born on 15 April in Kyiv suburb. His father came from a famous Cossack family, worked as a forester. Serge often came for the holidays to his grandfather in Kaniv, he liked to talk about the heroic past of Ukraine and boasted grandson diplomas of Ukrainian Hetman.

Since childhood, Serge has loved music, sang in the children's choir of St. Sophia Cathedral, he learned to play the violin and piano. But the future of boy was settled because of the acquaintance with Bronislava Nijinsky, sister of the famous dancer Vaslav Nijinsky. Serge decided to enter her section of the ballet and then his world has changed.

In 1922 Nijinsky emigrated to Paris, and in a year, she invited her best pupils, among them was Serge. He worked selflessly and passionately, but most importantly - wholeheartedly loved ballet. All his efforts soon were pleased - he became the first soloist of the French "Russian Ballet". After the first performances Lifar critics have called him the "new legend".

When Serge was 24 years old, died Sergei Diaghilev - the star of the ballet. Then he was invited to head the ballet troupe of "Grand Opera". And then he was not just a dancer, he became the face of an era of ballet. He gave 30 years of life to this theater, he was its soloist, choreographer and teacher. He became the founder of a new direction in ballet - "neoclassicism".

The genius that put more than 200 ballets in "Grand Opera", Chevalier Legion of Honor and the Order of literature and art, holder of the highest awards Ballet - "Golden Slippers" and "Oscar" to his last day, loved only one place on earth - Kyiv. "Even beautiful brilliant Paris could not make me, Kyiver, forget my wide, majestic Dnieper" - said Serge Lifar. When handing the Legion of Honor, Charles de Gaulle once again invited him to become a citizen of the country and asked him: "Monsieur Lifar! You did for France as much as a few famous French. Is not it time you become a Frenchman? " Lifar said: "Thank you very much, Mr. President, for your proposal. But I have never been and will not be a Frenchman, for I am Ukrainian, and my homeland is Ukraine. "

But to come to Ukraine he managed only once - in 1961, before he was released from the "Grand Opera". It was a terrible blow for Serge, he tried every possible way to fight for his place, but in vain.

In 1955 Lifar taught history and theory of dance at the Sorbonne, dance professor at the Higher School of Music and the honorary president of the National Dance Council of UNESCO.

Serge Lifar died in Lausanne on the 15th of December, 1986. These days in Lausanne appeared a monument, a gift from Kiev: Icarus with his hands, like wings tends to fly in the sky. On the pedestal, there is modest inscription: «Serg Lifar de Kiev» - «Serge Lifar from Kyiv."

In Ukraine genius of dancestarted to become mentioned only in the 1990s, particularly through the efforts of his widow, Countess Alefeld. She donated the Ukraine greatest treasures from the personal collection of Serge Lifar: Legion of Honor, "Golden Shoe", decorated with diamonds, costumes, and Pointe Anna Pavlova, suitcase Sergei Diaghilev, Picasso and Chagall's work.

Friends! I'm sure all Ukrainian should know the life story of this brilliant dancer, who was Ukrainian pride, honor his achievements and eternal love to his country.

Friends!

Friends! Soon Ukraine and Israel will shoot a movie together. Agreement on joint film production was approved by Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. It was signed on the 22 of December, 2015 in Jerusalem during a visit of Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko, and now finally accepted. Under the agreement, the two governments will encourage joint film production of Israel and Ukraine. The agreement will be valid during 5 years. If cooperation will be successful, it will be prolonged.

I think this is a very interesting step for the development of Ukraine-Israeli relations. I often say that the most important thing today for our two nations is to learn modern culture of each other and forget about the outdated notions of Ukrainian or Jewish. Cinema is the best tool for this knowledge. Also in Ukraine and in Israel there are many young and talented artists who should realize their creative vision. For it will help raise funds for co-production, because from now on Ukraine-Israeli films directors can ask for funding from the State Fund funds of both countries. In addition, films that will be created as a result of cooperation will receive benefits. But only if all who participate in work on films will be citizens or Ukraine or Israel. If someone from another country will have will to collaborate, it must compensate 10% of the budget of the film.

The history of Israeli cinema is near to Ukrainian. In the 1980s cinemas in Israel survived a decline, but then, during 1990, when Ukraine was building independent film making, revived. Israeli cinema boom came in the 2000s years. Soon came the worldwide recognition - Israeli films almost every year received awards at various film festivals and was nominated for "Oscar". Prominent bands of that period - "Free Zone" with Natalie Portman, "Broken Wings" directed by Bergman CIRA, "Beaufort" directed by Josef Sider. In 2013, t two documentaries under Israeli production received a nomination for "Oscar". Ukrainian cinema also extremely pleased the audience - such wonderful films as "Guide", "Tribe", "Enduring", "Parajanov". Watching such a strong Ukrainian Cinema you can easily understand - if the industry would have had more support, than all the awards of the world could be gained. Agreement on joint film production with Israel is a mutual facilitate. This support can help the two countries to reach a new level. I warmly welcome this decision.

Friends!

Today at the Western Wall was the largest Jewish worship - the blessing of Cohens, or in Hebrew - "birkat ha koan." It is conducted twice a year at Pesach and Sukkot, and each service collects about 50,000 Jews. Blessing of Coens is a commandment from the Torah, part of the prayer, which was held in the Jerusalem temple. Members of the genus Coen - temple priests, descendants of Aaron, come to the Western Wall, dress in white Talita and on behalf of the entire Jewish people ask God's blessing.

It would seem that tradition is very old. But Cohens began to pray at the Wailing Wall only 46 years ago.

After the defeat in the Six Day War, the Egyptians continued to bombard Israel. People died, IDF constantly needed more and more reservists, government expenditures were frantic. In 1970, Rabbi Menachem Mendl Hefner read book of Psalms and there found the following lines: "Since the Temple was destroyed each day was another curse. Who will help us to survive? Cohens ". Then the rabbi mentioned that blessing from Cohens more quickly came to God.

Then it was decided - to worship at the Western Wall and the first service gathered thousands of people. Jews sincerely rejoiced because they trusted – it was a spiritual revival. Since that times, Cohen’s blessing has taken place in the country twice a year, it collected all, even non-religious Jews.

Friends! Miracles can happen. They are implemented when we believe, when we remember and honor our traditions and look with hope to the future. I am sure that Ukraine and Israel expects many wonderful things that can bring our countries to new heights.

Friends

Friends! On this day in 1979 died Leonid Bykov - famous Ukrainian actor, director and screenwriter. In his honor named streets and even an asteroid. But what was this man like?

A year after the birth the family moved to Kramatorsk Bulls. He started going to school, life was calm and coordinated. Suddenly - World War II began. Several years after - evacuation in Barnaul. At the end of the war - the long-awaited return home. Guy entered the machine-building college, he studied for several years, but never finished it. But while he studied, Leonid Bykov discovered the scene and fell in love with it once and for all.

In childhood Bykov dreamed about aviation and flight, twice entered to schools. But for various reason he could not become it’s part. Bykov was not accepted the first time in the metropolitan school of actors: he did not have the certificate. But a year Leonid still managed to become a student – of the Ukrainian branch acting department of Kharkiv Theater Institute. After studying he played at Kharkov State Academic Theater of Shevchenko. Debut actor’s role was the role of Pallas sailor in the play "Death Squadron".

His first movie role Leonid Bykov played in the 1952 movie "Winners". Three years later, was the first major role - in the movie "Maxim Perepelitsa".

In the late 60s, along with Eugene Onopriyenko and Alexander Satska Leonid Bykov began to work on a film about pilots. But increasingly the censorship missed it. After a long wait in the 1973 film "Only old men come to fight "" still was removed.

Leonid Bykov died tragically in a car accident on the 47th kilometer of "Minsk-Kyiv" on the 11th of April 1979, in the midst of filming a new movie "UFO". The actor and director was returning from his cottage near Kyiv. Ahead of him was driving a tractor MTZ-50 with a cultivator, and for unknown reasons, the Bykov decided to overtake. He went on to overtake and to meet him moving truck GAZ-53. Bykov started to brake, the car turned on a slippery track, but clashes still happened. His death has acquired various legends. Some say - the heart of the actor stopped before the accident. Others explained - all because of the oppression that had experience in life.

The only thing what is common to all who knew and saw Leonid Bykov - he was a man of exceptional character. Well, correct, courteous. So we'll have to remember him that way.

Friends!

Today is International Day of liberation of prisoners of Nazi concentration camps.

The day was chosen not by chance – On the 11th of April, 1945, American troops liberated the Buchenwald concentration camp prisoners. But those had managed to raise an international uprising against the Nazis! In March 1945, the German command fled from the camp because of fear that they would be grab American troops. Prisoners took this advantage and staged a revolt and, as a result of which could captured Buchenwald. However, in April 1945 prisoners were released and Mittelbau-Dora (11 April), Bergen-Belsen (April 15) Sachsenhausen (22-23 April), Dachau (April 29), Ravensbrück (April 30).

First concentration camps as a means to destroy the ideological unfaithful people started to be used on the March 1933, when the camp was opened in Dachau. This was the first camp that was subordinated to the SS - Protective orders of the National Socialist German Workers' Party. All other than existing camps subordinated to SA. But after formation lost its influence, it lost power over the concentration camps. The culmination of the existence of these entities was terrible years of war when the camps have become a "factory of death".

In Germany and its occupied countries were more than 14 thousand concentration camps, ghettos and prisons. They held more than 20 million people from 30 countries. For SS confessions, prisoner, who lived in the camp less than a year, brought to the Germans a thousand Reichsmark profit.

Over 12 years in the camps were destroyed almost 12 million people. Among them - about 2 million children.

Friends! We have to remember those who died and those who managed to survive at the concentration camps. Biographies of these people are the best example of courage for future generations. Today, in many countries there are various events, people bring flowers to the graves of victims of the concentration camps. Former prisoners meet, remember the victims, share stories. I believe such can never happen again in the history of mankind. That is why we have to remember these terrible events to honor the people we lost, support those who survived and are still with us.

Friends!

After sunset Jews around the world will celebrate Pesach – in a memory of the day when Moses led the Jews from Egyptian captivity. This is one of the most important holidays, which symbolizes freedom and the miracle of faith and hope, relief from the burdens and misfortunes.

Traditionally, on this day you can eat only unleavened bread, you should reject all foods that undergo a process of fermentation (beer, brew, pasta, etc.). Before the Passover Israel had time only to make matzo bread without yeast. Now people eat it as a reminder of that event.

By tradition, before the holiday Jews clean their homes. On Pesach families return from synagogues, after the last rays of the sun the whole family sit down to celebrate. Evening meal is called the "Seder", that means "order." Believers read psalms and prayers. Poor people are invited to the Seder, they are fed and cared to make them feel real love and support.

There are the most beautiful dishes, candles and wine on the table. Regardless of wealth, people are trying to prepare the celebration at the highest level.

Incidentally, the Pesach Seder is depicted by the legendary Leonardo da Vinci's "Last Supper."

Friends, Ukraine and Israel, like anyone else, know the true value of the word "freedom." It never comes easy. We have to keep the flame of faith and hope that warms people. And then can happen any miracle.

I wish you all on this holiday never cease to fight, to go ahead anyway. Each of us is waiting for own and common miracle - peaceful sky overhead. Happy Pesach!

Friends!

Today Ukrainian believers celebrate Palm Sunday.

On this day, Jesus rode into Jerusalem on the donkey. People welcomed him as the true king, threw palm branches to his feet. These trees in Israel were considered a symbol of independence and the victories of the king, and donkey - was the symbol of his humility and nonviolent power. Also, people shouted "Hosanna!" - this also applied only to the king.

The procession of the willows are now echoes with the old event. That willow ar identified with palm trees, because in Ukraine the tree blossoms among the first and is its symbol. Willow are sanctified in the church, after the consecration branches are taken home. Traditionally, on the road gently parents beat children with willow, saying: "I'm not hitting, willow hits, in a week will come Easter."

Palm Sunday should be conducted in the family. This time should be given to a family conversations, meditations and relaxations.

Friends! I wish you all and your families comfort, peace and health!

Friends!

 14 years ago, in Iraq was killed Ukrainian videographer Taras Protsyuk. He filmed fighting of the US Army from the balcony of his hotel room "Palestine", which was the focus of the media, when he was fired from a tank. Taras Protsyuk and his Spanish colleague - Jose Kouso received fatal injuries from which they died. Taras was only35 years old.

Taras Protsiuk was born on the 16th of January, 1968 in Ivano-Frankivsk. He studied at several universities, but did not finish them. Imagine, he was expelled from the Space Academy in Leningrad, because of Ukrainian nationalism - by order of the Minister of Defense! He painted Ukrainian passport for his friends.

Then Taras Protsiuk started shooting. He traveled to various hot spots: Afghanistan, Kashmir, Yugoslavia, Chechnya, Transnistria, and others.

In Serbia, he was considered persona non grata, but he still went there to shoot and was hit to the prison. In Chechnya videographer got a concussion, but he fled from the hospital to continue shooting. This man was so burned by his work and loved it, he gave himself to his work completely, was not afraid of danger. That’s why, he worked for the world's best news agency «Reuters». When Taras Protsiuk went on shooting, everyone was sure that the world will see the true and exclusive footage from the hottest points.

In each country, Ukrainian wound up not only new friends, but learned the language. He spoke fluently Ukrainian, Russian, Polish, English, Serbian, Croatian and Farsi.

To Ukraine, he often came to relax and spend time with his family - his wife Lydia and son Denis. But when there occurred the most important events, he also returned to work. He actively covered the civil action "Ukraine without Kuchma" and gave his video to Ukrainian TV channels that could not shoot video through the censorship of these events.

Eternal memory to Taras Protsyuk - talented videographer, brave men and courageous citizen. Ukraine must remember such people!

Friends!

Today Ukrainian believers celebrate one of the main holidays in the Orthodox calendar - Annunciation.

Name of the holiday was associated with its history. On that day, the angel Gabriel told the Virgin Mary good news that she will give birth to the Savior of the human race.

In the Israeli Nazareth, the place where the story took place, was built the Church of the Annunciation. It was built on the same time with the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem and the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem, the first mention of the Church of the Annunciation is dated 570 year. Unfortunately, this church was destroyed in the VII century after the Muslim conquest of Palestine.

The temple was rebuilt several times, its final construction was finished in 1969. Courtyard and interior of the church decorated with Theotokoses from around the world, there is an icon from Ukraine - a copy of Theotokos Zarvanytsya.

In Ukraine, people began to celebrate the feast after the establishment of Christianity. Over time, a host of rituals and customs related to the Annunciation appeared. For example, just after the Annunciation people could start work in the garden or in the field. Previously, "waking up" the land was considered a great sin. Also, one of the main emission ceremony was the will of the birds, that symbolized the liberation of the human soul from sin.

Unmarried girls especially liked the Annunciation. Previously believed that if today the girl will find blooming primroses – at the end of the year she will get married. In order to become more beautiful, she could pour a bowl of cold water, put a flower of primrose in it and wash with this water.

At the Annunciation spring finally wins the winter. Therefore, in this festive day I wish you a warm heart, a peaceful sky and good health to you and your families!

Friends!

Friends! Today I had the honor to participate in the second Ukrainian-Israeli medical conference. For over two years I have been representing the State of Israel in Western Ukraine. During this time, many different projects have been realized, some of which dealt with one of the most important topics for Ukraine - Health. These include: training of Israeli psychologists who shared the experience of rehabilitation of combatants, rest and recuperation of children of the soldiers who died in the Donbass in Israel, and provision of medical equipment for the hospital №5 in Lviv.

The theme of today's event was coronary heart disease. Over the past 40 years, mortality from cardiovascular disease in Israel decreased by 80%. Of a heart attacks in this country die only around 4.2% of the population, at the same time in Ukraine - 30%. I think it proves the benefit of the Israeli experience.

I know that the level of Ukrainian doctors is high. But lack of funding and lack of all necessary modern equipment impedes the development of this sphere. The State of Israel is a leading country in the world medicine. In some areas, it is generally ahead of the US and Germany. But these countries were the best of the best when Israel was only forming as country still. Immediately after gaining independence, Israel was declared war. And it still continues. The country had a reason to keep up with the advanced countries. But it did not happen.

Now Ukraine is experiencing a situation in which Israel was after the formation of the state. Here, almost every day there are people who die because of the war, receive serious injuries, require psychological rehabilitation. Israel has extensive experience in providing this kind of care, and it is the most important partner for Ukraine in this regard. Such conferences can provide serious tools to our physicians which will help to improve treatment in Ukraine.

Once again, I want to thank everybody in Israel who see Ukraine as a friend and partner. We should not take this support for granted. From myself and the Ukraine, I would like to say thank you.

The average life expectancy in Ukraine is the lowest in Europe. We must all strive to ensure that Ukrainian were healthier as a nation. I am confident that through the cooperation of Ukrainian doctors and Israeli colleagues Medicine of Ukraine in future will be able to reach the world level.

Friends

Friends! It is a great weather outside, I went out to walk through magic Lviv city. Of course, I could not miss visiting my favorite place – a square of three synagogues. The jewish quarter is simply mesmerizing. Previously, there was a synagogue "Golden Rose", a Great City Synagogue and Beit Hamidrash Talmudic school. Unfortunately, all these buildings were destroyed during the Second World War, only a wall of the synagogue "Golden Rose" remained.

It was built in the years 1592-1596 by the Italian architect Paul Shaslyviy involving Amvrosiy Pryhilnuy and Adam Pokora. A rich Lviv merchant, banker and financier and at the same time, the head of the Jewish community Itsak Nachmanowicz paid for the construction. According to legend, the name "Golden Rose" connected with Itsak’s daughter who, in order to obtain permission for the construction of the temple, has agreed to become the wife of the king. And after permission was obtained – jumped out of the window. In another version, the "Golden Rose" (or "Turei Zahav") was one of the works of Saint David ben Shmuel Ha-Levi, one of the most prominent rabbis of the city. He often prayed in the synagogue.

"Golden Rose" was one of the most beautiful synagogues in Europe until it was destroyed.

Before the Great city sinagogue was built in 1555, a wooden one stood at that place. Year of construction considered to be 1320! During a fire in Lviv in 1527 it burned down, and then there a brick synagogue appeared. But that one was also dismantled in 1797. After 4 years it was built up – it became better and more beautiful. During the German occupation it was exploded.

Beit Hamidrash – it is a house of wisdom, which consisted of a library of Talmudic literature and a study hall and prayer room. First Beit Hamidrash in the medieval Lviv city was built in the XVII century from wood. It stood between the city and the synagogue "Golden Rose". But by the order of the Austrian government the school was demolished and a new was built nearby. In 1870 Beit Hamidrash was enlarged, a large class room was attached and over the prayer hall - another tier. This building was later also destroyed completely.

Now this historical area has become a "space of synagogues." Almost during two years it was managed to preserve the remained remnants of the synagogue "Golden Rose" to equip on its territory a drainage system, foundation of authentic Beit Hamidrash cleared of concrete and covered with white stone. Also it was established a memorial installation "Immortalization" of quotations of Lviv residents and Jews who were associated with the city. This is not the end - the project of building of public space here is still goes on.

Friends, I invite you to walk through this special and extremely interesting historical site!

Friends!

Today is the 85th birthday of the famous film director Andrei Tarkovsky.

Few people know, but famous director had an interesting origin. He was the grandson of Alexander Tarkovsky, who was a Ukrainian writer, one of the founders of the rebel group from Elizabethgrad. He spent three years in prison and five - in exile in Siberia. Grandfather's sister, actress Nadiya Tarkovsky, was the wife of Ivan Tobilevich (Karpenko-Kary). His father Arseniy was well-known poet and translator.

Andrei Tarkovsky was born on the 4th of April, 1932 in the village of Ivanovo region, Zavrazh'ye. When the boy was three years old, his father left the family. From this loss, Andrew suffered all his life, and improved relations with the father only when he became famous. His mother all her life worked in the printing. Family lived in poor, half-starved. Times were tough - war, post-war years ..

But Andrew's mother Maria Ivanovna did not flow into despair in spite of that. She supported him. First guy went to the art school, then – to the music one. Then the young man entered the Institute of Oriental Languages. But learning Arabic quickly bored him and he went to work to the taiga as the geologist. Suddenly - the new changes. Andrew successfully entered the directing department of VGIK at and graduated with honors.

Andrei Tarkovsky was extremely talented. His first work - a short film he made as a thesis, gained the main prize of the New York festival of student films. At the age of 29 Tarkovsky received international fame – because of his film "Ivan's Childhood". This picture won "Golden Lion" of the Venice International Film Festival. Incidentally, some scenes were filmed in Ukraine, also one of the roles was given to the actor Nikolai Grinko Kyiv. At the studio Dovzhenko, he was not likable for shooting, but Andrei Tarkovsky saw his talent and gave him roles in other his films. t

Some of the most popular films of Tarkovsky among the audience are the film "Solaris" and "Stalker", delivered by prominent fiction books - Stanislaw Lem and the Strugatsky brothers. Each new film of Tarkovsky brought a new breath to the world of cinema. But all this time there was a permanent conflict between Tarkovsky and the Soviets. So when he went to Italy to shoot the film "Nostalgia", he decided not to return to the Soviet Union. His works were banned in his homeland.

In Italy, the famous director also lived hard. Although he was able to buy a small house 40 kilometers from Rome, he lacked money. And the health began to deteriorate .. In 1985, doctors diagnosed Andrei Tarkovsky lung cancer. A year later he died. Filmmaker was buried in Paris, and on the monument, are stamped words: "The man who saw an angel."



Andrei Tarkovsky - the man who created modern art, close to all of us. "To be free, you just need it to be, without asking anybody for permission." He was so.

Friends!

Today expire 99 years from the birth of Oles Honchar, a prominent Ukrainian writer and public figure, author of novels "The Cathedral", "Flag bearers" and "Man and weapons." For the las one he received the State Shevchenko Prize.

The real name of prominent Ukrainian was Olexander Bilychenko. He was born in the village Lomivka (now - Dnepr) in 1918. His mother died when the boy was only three years old. Olexander was raised by the grandparents in Poltava.

When he was entering the school, Bilychenko was signed in as Honchar (mother's surname and the name was changed because there was another Alexander in the class). And the village council issued a new birth certificate, according to which he was born in the village Sukhiy.

First Oles finished journalist college, then entered the Kharkov State University. He worked in Kharkiv and Poltava newspapers.

In June 1941 Oles Gonchar joined the student battalion of volunteers. All that he experienced, the author highlighted in his novel "Man and weapons." In the summer of 1942 he was captured, he fled from it in 1943. From there - returned to arms.

In between battles, Honchar wrote poetry - in which were portrayed all the feelings and emotion of authors. After the war, he began to write "Bearers" - it took three years, but the author managed to portray the true Ukrainian, who can not only fight, but win.

Outstanding Ukrainian novel - "Cathedral" by Honchar was published in the journal "Fatherland" in 1968. First, it was embraced warmly, but then it was banned and subjected to withering criticism. Even before the publication of "Cathedral" Honchar came under suspicion of the party leadership, and after it he became its target. But the ban has given the "green light" a new wave of resistance. Representatives of patriotic intellectuals, including Ivan Sokulsky and Michael Skorik wrote a letter to the CC CPU support. Later, it was even published abroad, and its authors appeared upon the interest of KGB of the USSR.

This was a turning point for Honchar. Later, he began to perform with the requirements of the status of the Ukrainian language, he supported the fight for independence. And when independence was achieved, Ukraine became a separate state, Oles Honchar still was not reassured. He believed that the country was at the helm of "unscrupulous cohort," which will be followed by "invasion of pygmies." Blogs of writer are an invaluable treasure that is worth reading to understand that challenges faced by Ukrainian, are not new.

Oles Honchar died on the 14th of July, 1995. He was buried at the Baykove cemetery. Eyewitnesses told that funeral was made by the priests of several denominations - just out of respect for him, for his novel "The Cathedral". When the coffin was lowered into the grave, the rain poured from the sky, as if heaven cried for him.

Friends!

On this day 208 years ago Nikolai Gogol was born - the famous Ukrainian writer who created such immortal works as "Evenings on a Farm near Dikanka", "Taras Bulba", "Vij" and others. Unfortunately, the figure of Nikolai Gogol is controversial. Russians find him as a classic of Russian literature, Ukrainians - condemn the fact that he wrote in Russian. And despite this, there are things that do not cross: how Gogol was able to depict the world through the eyes of Ukrainian, so that he saw around all the national characteristics and historical aspects, Ukrainian folklore and spirit. Judging now when the centuries have passed is extremely difficult, and in honor of the famous writer in the day of his birthday it’s worth remembering some interesting facts that prove that he loved his motherland.

Interest in theater and cultural life of Nikolai Gogol arose in childhood. All thanks to his father - Vasil Panasovych. He was a wonderful storyteller, and most importantly - he wrote plays for home theater in Ukrainian. Unfortunately, Gogol's father died when the boy was only 15 years old.

Nikolay’s grandmother Tatiana also endeavored to make guy grew up educated, studied language and loved it. Because of her he became interested in collecting Ukrainian folk songs, proverbs and sayings, preparing materials to Ukrainian-Russian dictionary.

Even while studying in high school Gogol became interested in Ukrainian history, studied the customs, rituals and folk art. He studied people's features directly from situations that were later described in his works.

Nikolai’s big dream seems had changed his fate. He wanted to be really useful to mankind, wanted to change the world with his literature. And he chose a path that someone does not understand, but at that time it was clear: Gogol moved to St. Petersburg with a clear goal of becoming famous and successful writer. He lived there in poverty working as official.

Nikolai Gogol was a friend with Professor Michael Maksmovychem, wanted to teach at Kiev’s University and wrote him the following letter: " I’m getting impressed when imagine how my works will boil in Kiev. There I may finish the history of Ukraine and southern Russia and write world history. And I’ll gather there lots of legends, believes and songs! What interesting could be made a university notes and how much of detailes could be put there, absolutely new anout the country itself!” In correspondence with Maksymovych, Gogol called the Ukrainian language “our language”.

After the premiere of the play "The Inspector" Nikolai went abroad. In Italy he wrote the first volume of "Dead Souls". The dissident Eugene Sverstyuk said: "In 1846, when he was in Carlsbad (Karlovy Vary), Gogol wrote in the guest book," Nicolas de Gogol, Ukrainien, etabli a Moscou "(Nikolai Gogol, Ukrainian, living in Moscow) ... These facts are little known, as the Russian literary critics and historians do not want to reveal them. "

In 1848, Nikolai Gogol returned to the Russian Empire. There he started working on the second volume of the "Dead Souls," which, by the famous Soviet version, was burned. The last Gogol’s years of life have more mysterious puzzles than answers. There are several versions of his death, from burial in a state of liturgical sleep to treatment to the death. The only thing where these versions coincide - before leaving this world, Nikolai was in a depression for a long time because he could not fulfill the main mission of his life. What it was - only he knew.

Yar Slavutich, poet, translator and professor at the University of Alberta said about Gogol as follows:

"A new mission forms for a writer – an envoy on behalf of defeated and enslaved homeland ... He fulfilled his mission by means of Russian language brilliantly ... a Ukrainian made a huge contribution to the neighboring literature, and got no thanks." Let us now look differently at the figure of Nikolai Gogol - a prominent Ukrainian who left hos mark in the history of literature forever!