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A trip to Leninogorsk city (now it is called Ridder again) was planned
on Sunday, October 5. It was rather a long way - 150 kilometers.
We set out early. It was raining all day through. Everybody felt warm
and comfortable in the minibus; fascinating landscapes were seen out of
the window. The purpose of the trip was to deliver food packages, find
out about problems and needs of the community, socialize, and organize
a lecture dedicated to the Jewish Antifascist Committee.
Ridder city is surrounded by colorful forests that make one
feel elated and sad at the same time. We came there at 12 as we promised
to. The Director of Hesed "Faina" Vladimir Lebedev, coordinator
of cultural programs Elena Levina, teacher of Hebrew Natasha Lebedeva
were there not for the first time. They introduced me, a volunteer and
a lecturer, to community members. We talked about the community and Lena Levina
told news of the Hesed in Ust-Kamenogorsk and about the tour of our "Seven
Forty" theatre. The Jews of Ridder city were eager to watch the "Severed
Branch" play. It would be fine if we arrange the trip of community
members to Ust-Kamenogorsk to watch the performance. It is not easy, but
hopefully we can make it. It would be great!
Then it was time for the lecture. The story about the way
Stalin's regime destroyed the Jewish Antifascist Committee 50 years ago
made everybody bow sorrowfully. Famous names of Solomon Michoels
(great actor, "Jew number one"), Polina Zhemtchuzhnaya
and other members of the Committee were called. 13 of them were shot,
great many died in prison. Now their sparkling eyes are looking at us
from the cover of "Lehaim" magazine. Poets, writers, actors,
doctors, journalists,… will remain in the memory of the Jewish people
forever.
After the lecture we again discussed today's issues and Israel.
Every Jew, wherever he lives, cares about his motherland. Then we had
tea and began giving out food packages. The day was almost over and we
had to go back. Though it was still raining, we felt warm and easy. Close
touch with the history inspired people and gave them strength to work
further. Thank you, my people and my Community!
Fanya Suponitskaya
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