Letters to the Editor

To the Editor,

I have been a subscriber to Russian Life from its beginning, and subscribed to its predecessor.

I really enjoy your magazine and would like to make a couple of suggestions:

Many Americans find the story of the Russian Tsars to be of great interest, especially the tragic story of Nicholas. My suggestion is that from time to time you give us extended articles not only on past Tsars but on those Romanovs still living — who they are, what is their relationship to the throne, etc..

Also, I noted in the November Russian Life that the remains of Tsar Nicholas II and family are to be reburied in St. Petersburg’s SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral. I urge you to give extended coverage to this ceremony.

John F. Holder

Lubbock, TX

To the Editor,

I have been interested in Russia and Russians since the early 1950s. In 1980-82, I was Communications Officer at the US Consulate General in Leningrad.

A few months ago, I renewed my subscription to Russian Life for 2 years. I have found it keeps me up with what’s going on there. Russian Life is much more interesting than the old Soviet Life. I like the format as it is, but would like to suggest more items ‘in brief.’ I find these most interesting. Also I would like to see more information on the downsizing of the former Soviet military and how the Russian military forces are coping.

Keep up the good work!

Vsevo khoroshevo!

Wayne F. Ubrich

Rensselaer, NY

(Look out for the May edition of Russian Life, Ed.)

To the Editor,

Please would you not continue to compare everything to the mighty, awful dollar bill! It gives your paper such a capitalistic look! Who cares about all those price tags? I am looking forward to reading more about schools, hospitals, public transportation etc..

Adelheid G. Lucas-W.

Wilton NH

To the Editor,

I have been a reader of Russian Life, and before it Soviet Life for a number of years.

I have always enjoyed the articles in your magazine, but I would like to see more articles on history, politics and interest stories about the people of Russia.

One thing I believe is that a lot of problems could be solved, or at least brought down to manageable levels by a restoration of the Soviet Union. What someone should call for is a Constitutional Convention, such as our country had in 1787.

Thank you.

Ralph D. Vincent

Chicago IL

To the Editor,

I just received your January 1996 issue of Russian Life and I enjoy every issue. However, I feel I must respond to George Menschinsky’s letter to the Editor.

He claims to have cancelled his subscription because he “can’t allow a Russian magazine, managed and edited by Americans with the help of Russian turncoats in his house.” So what is he doing living in Los Angeles? Which is better, to be a turncoat or a hypocrite? He claimed to be a “Soviet-born man” (whatever that means) but how does he equate Soviet with Russian? I think he’s a very confused person.

I lived in Russia and Ukraine for 1¹/₂ years and returned to the USA September 1995. While living in the former Soviet Union I met a number of people who wanted to go back to Communism if they had the chance. However, they firmly changed their minds when they realized the benefits of a free market and democratic government. People of the former Soviet Union have much to be proud of but it’s not because of the Soviet system. Communism destroyed the moral and ethical fiber of society and it’s going to take years to rebuild it. However, people have realized that it is worth it to do so.

God bless the Russian people.

Stan Foster

Hillsdale MI   

To the Editor,

Russian Life is like a breath of fresh wintery air as one walks beneath crystal-cloaked trees on an icy path in Moscow.

I don’t recall when I last read any magazine in its entirety — leaving no word unturned. What a lovely mix of writing styles, themes and content are to be found.

Because my work takes me to Russia twice a year, my husband ordered me a sample copy. It is with delight that I welcome Russian Life into our reading room.

Sincerely,

Barbara DeKovner-Mayer

Encino, CA